“Hamas has used the residents of Gaza as human shields, built its terror infrastructure in the heart of the civilian population, and now holds them hostage—extorting money from them through the humanitarian aid system and preventing their departure from Gaza,” he wrote.
I have instructed the IDF to prepare a plan that will allow any resident of Gaza who wishes to leave to do so, to any country willing to receive them.
Hamas has used the residents of Gaza as human shields, built its terror infrastructure in the heart of the civilian population,…- Israel Katz Israel Katz (@israel_katz) February 6, 2025
Katz singled out countries such as Spain, Ireland, and Norway, which have criticised Israel’s military operations in Gaza, arguing that they have a legal obligation to accept Palestinian migrants. “Their hypocrisy will be exposed if they refuse,” he stated, while also pointing to Canada’s structured immigration program as an example of a country that has expressed willingness to take in Gazans.
“The people of Gaza should have the right to freedom of movement and migration, as is customary everywhere in the world,” he added.
Katz also welcomed an initiative by former US President Donald Trump, which he said could help Gazans resettle and contribute to long-term reconstruction efforts in a demilitarised Gaza following the removal of Hamas.
“I welcome President @realDonaldTrump’s bold initiative, which can create extensive opportunities for those in Gaza who wish to leave, assist them in resettling in host countries, and support long-term reconstruction efforts in a demilitarized, threat-free Gaza after Hamas—an effort that will take many years.”
The proposal comes amid ongoing conflict in Gaza, where Israeli airstrikes and ground operations have continued following Hamas’s October 7 attack. While Israel has previously restricted the movement of Gazans, this plan would mark a significant shift, provided other nations agree to receive those who wish to leave.
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First Published: Feb 6, 2025 3:43 PM IS
