Daijiworld Media Network – Tel Aviv
Tel Aviv, Mar 10: Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has announced plans to establish a ‘migration administration’ to facilitate the relocation of Palestinian residents from the Gaza Strip. The far-right leader and key coalition partner of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made these remarks during a conference organized by the pro-settler Land of Israel Caucus at the Israeli parliament.
Smotrich referenced former US President Donald Trump's controversial ‘Gaza Riviera’ proposal, which suggests a US-led takeover of Gaza, the forced displacement of its residents, and its transformation into a high-end Middle Eastern resort destination. Despite facing widespread criticism, the plan has found support among Netanyahu and several Israeli ministers.
Speaking at the conference, Smotrich revealed that preparations are underway to form a migration authority under the Defence Ministry. He claimed that if 10,000 people were relocated daily, it would take roughly six months to remove Gaza's entire population of around two million. He also mentioned ongoing coordination with the US administration to identify countries willing to accept Palestinian migrants.
Trump's plan, first floated in February 2024, has been met with fierce opposition from regional powers and the international community. In response, Arab leaders recently endorsed a $53 billion Egyptian-drafted reconstruction plan aimed at rebuilding Gaza without displacing its people.
Earlier, Trump had openly stated his vision for a US-controlled Gaza, asserting that America would "have it, keep it, and run it properly" to ensure peace and economic growth. He envisioned turning Gaza into a lucrative real estate hub with resorts and office buildings.
The relocation proposal and Trump's vision have drawn condemnation, raising concerns over forced displacement and potential violations of international law. Meanwhile, tensions continue to mount over the future of the war-torn enclave, as global efforts to support Gaza's reconstruction stand in direct contrast to Israeli and US plans.