Israel's far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich stated on Sunday that US President Donald Trump’s proposal to relocate Palestinians from conflict-ravaged Gaza was "coming together," even though numerous regional governments strongly opposed the idea.
"This plan is coming together, with continuous efforts being coordinated with the (US) administration," Smotrich stated at an event in the Israeli Knesset, adding that they were preparing to establish a governing body to supervise the relocation process.
'This could lead to a significant transformation in the Middle East as well as for the state of Israel,' stated Smotrich, who has consistently advocated for restarting the conflict with Hamas and has shown backing for reinstating a continuous Israeli presence in the area.
Trump's suggested plan would necessitate identifying nations ready to accept at least some portion of the 2.4 million inhabitants from the Gaza Strip, as pointed out by Smotrich.
'Identifying crucial nations, grasping their interests — both concerning the US and ourselves — and promoting collaboration is what this entails,' he stated.
Carrying out the plan, which has been endorsed by other Israeli officials but criticized by Palestinians, Arab states, and certain international figures, would entail significant organizational challenges, according to Smotrich.
"Just so you understand — if we were to eliminate 10,000 individuals each day for seven days a week, it would require half a year," he stated.
If we relocate 5,000 individuals each day, it would require an entire year. Naturally, this relies on having nations ready to accept them; however, such procedures are extremely lengthy.
Experts have stated that expelling Gazans by force would be considered a breach of international law.
Shortly after assuming his position, Trump sparked international controversy by proposing that the U.S. should annex Gaza and transform it into the 'Riviera of the Middle East.' He also suggested relocating the area’s Palestinian residents to neighboring countries like Egypt and Jordan.
A few weeks ago, an alternative proposal from the Arab side was presented as a response to Trump's plan, receiving support from multiple Islamic countries along with various European governments.
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. ( Syndigate.info ).
