Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has voiced support for U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposal to relocate the Palestinian population from Gaza, calling it “the only viable plan” for ensuring stability in the region.
During a meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Netanyahu reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to eliminating Hamas, a stance that casts uncertainty over ongoing ceasefire talks. The proposal, which includes redeveloping Gaza under U.S. control, is expected to face opposition from Arab leaders during Rubio’s visit to Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
While Netanyahu insists that any Palestinian emigration from Gaza would be voluntary, critics argue that the scale of destruction in the territory makes relocation appear coercive. The ceasefire’s first phase is set to expire in two weeks, with negotiations for a second phase—including a hostage-prisoner exchange—yet to begin.
Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, has assured that the next phase of talks will move forward, with efforts to secure the release of 19 Israeli soldiers believed to be alive. Meanwhile, Netanyahu has called for a meeting of Israel’s security cabinet to discuss the matter further.
As the conflict nears its 500th day, Netanyahu has indicated readiness to resume military operations, which could endanger remaining hostages. The Biden administration had previously paused arms shipments over concerns about civilian casualties, but Israel recently received a new batch of heavy munitions from the U.S.
Rubio, echoing Trump’s position, has suggested that regional Arab states should take responsibility for confronting Hamas. However, Arab leaders remain resistant to any forced displacement of Palestinians or direct military intervention on Israel’s behalf.
Egypt, which is set to host an Arab summit on February 27, is working on an alternative plan for Gaza’s reconstruction without population transfers. The UAE and Saudi Arabia have also rejected mass displacement, emphasizing the need for a long-term solution that includes Palestinian self-governance.
With Netanyahu ruling out Palestinian statehood and the role of the Palestinian Authority in postwar Gaza, diplomatic challenges remain high. Meanwhile, Trump’s threat to cut aid to Egypt and Jordan if they refuse to accept Palestinian refugees further complicates an already volatile situation.
