Israel to Formulate 'Migration Authority' for Gazans: Minister
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Synopsis
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced plans to create a 'migration administration' for the relocation of Palestinian residents from Gaza. The initiative aligns with US President Donald Trump's controversial 'Gaza Riviera' proposal, despite significant regional backlash. An Egyptian plan for Gaza's reconstruction has been proposed as an alternative.
Key Takeaways
- Migration administration establishment announced.
- Controversial Gaza Riviera plan discussed.
- Ongoing coordination with the US for relocation.
- Proposal met with significant regional backlash.
- Alternative reconstruction plan valued at $53 billion.
Jerusalem, March 10 (NationPress) Israel is taking steps to create a migration administration aimed at facilitating the relocation of Palestinian inhabitants from the Gaza Strip, according to Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich.
Smotrich, a prominent far-right figure and a crucial ally in Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition, made these statements on Sunday during a conference held at the parliament, which was organized by the Land of Israel Caucus, a lobby group supportive of settlements.
During the conference, Smotrich talked about the Gaza Riviera initiative proposed by US President Donald Trump, which envisions a US takeover of Gaza, the resettlement of its inhabitants, and the redevelopment of the area into a Middle Eastern Riviera. This contentious plan, introduced in early February, has faced significant backlash; however, both Netanyahu and other Israeli officials have shown support for it, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
"Preparations are in progress to set up a migration authority within the Defence Ministry," Smotrich stated.
He provided an overview of the scale of the operation, noting that if they were to relocate 10,000 individuals daily, it would take approximately six months to move the entire population of Gaza, which is around 2 million.
Smotrich indicated that there is ongoing collaboration with the US administration to identify suitable countries for Gazans to migrate to.
Trump's proposal has been largely dismissed by various regional nations and beyond. In response, Arab leaders on Tuesday approved an Egyptian-developed plan for Gaza's reconstruction, estimated at $53 billion, which aims to rebuild the region without displacing its residents.
Earlier in February 2024, President Trump remarked at a White House press briefing that he believes the US will take control of Gaza, citing US authority over the enclave.
"We’re going to have it, we’re going to keep it, and we’re going to ensure that there’s peace, with no issues, and we’ll manage it properly," Trump stated in a meeting with Jordanian King Abdullah II.
The US President expressed his vision of transforming Gaza into a profitable area for resorts and office complexes.
