Israel's defense minister has instructed the army to prepare plans for a large number of Palestinians to leave the Gaza Strip in accordance with President Donald Trump's proposal for the war-torn territory. The plan includes options for exit at land crossings, as well as special arrangements for exit by sea and air. The defense minister welcomed Trump's plan, which could potentially allow a significant population in Gaza to relocate to various places around the world. However, it remains unclear whether Palestinians would be able to return to Gaza in the future, a territory severely affected by Israel's 15-month military campaign against Hamas.
Trump's proposal for the permanent resettlement of most of Gaza's population elsewhere was met with strong opposition from Palestinians and the international community. Rights groups raised concerns that such relocation would amount to forcible displacement in violation of international law. While U.S. officials later clarified that the relocation would be temporary, Palestinians fear that Israel may prevent their return, exacerbating a long-standing refugee crisis.
Egyptian Officials Act to Prevent Trump's Gaza Proposal
Egypt has initiated diplomatic efforts to deter President Trump's proposal for the mass relocation of Palestinians from Gaza. The Egyptian government has expressed concerns that such a plan could jeopardize its peace treaty with Israel, a crucial element of stability in the region. Egyptian officials have conveyed their opposition to the Trump administration and Israel, emphasizing that the peace deal with Israel is at risk. Egypt has also reached out to U.S. officials, including the Pentagon and the State Department, as well as Western European allies, to convey its stance against the proposed relocation.
Amid these developments, two Israeli soldiers tragically lost their lives in the Gaza Strip due to the accidental collapse of a crane in the border area. This incident marks the first Israeli military casualties in Gaza since the ceasefire agreement came into effect, ending the 15-month conflict initiated by Hamas. The ceasefire's initial phase involves Israeli forces withdrawing from most of the territory, with a focus on border security. The military has issued warnings to Palestinians to avoid restricted areas and has taken action against those violating the ceasefire terms.
As the ceasefire progresses, Hamas is expected to release hostages captured during the conflict in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. The terms of the subsequent phases of the ceasefire, including further hostage releases and a lasting peace agreement, are yet to be finalized.
