An Israeli government ministry has proposed a plan to move the population of the Gaza Strip to Egypt’s Sinai peninsula, causing backlash from Palestinians and straining relations with Cairo. The report, compiled by the Intelligence Ministry, was described as a hypothetical exercise by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office. However, the proposal has raised concerns in Egypt that Israel wants to shift the responsibility of Gaza to them. For Palestinians, the idea brings back memories of the displacement that occurred during Israel’s creation in 1948. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas’s spokesperson called the proposal a “red line” that cannot be crossed. Egypt has also expressed its reluctance to accept Palestinian refugees, fearing it could endanger its peace treaty with Israel and lead to attacks on its territory. The report suggests that other countries like Turkey, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Canada could potentially support the plan by providing financial aid or resettlement options for the displaced residents of Gaza. However, the document acknowledges that the proposal may face challenges in terms of international legitimacy. Israeli officials have downplayed the significance of the report, stating that it does not reflect official discussions and that the focus remains on dismantling Hamas’ capabilities. The document also dismisses other options, such as reinstating the Palestinian Authority in Gaza or supporting a local regime, deeming them inadequate in deterring attacks on Israel.
Israeli Ministry Floats Idea of Relocating Gaza Civilians to Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula
