The Daily Star Ireland
Israel’s defense minister, Israel Katz, has stated that certain countries, including Spain, Ireland, and Norway, are “legally obligated” to accept Palestinian refugees. His remarks come as he directs the Israeli military to develop a plan for the “voluntary departure” of Gaza residents.
This directive follows U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent declaration that the United States intends to assume control over Gaza, relocate its Palestinian population, and turn the region into what he called the “Riviera of the Middle East.”
Katz argues that nations critical of Israel’s military actions in Gaza should be the ones to accommodate displaced Palestinians. He specifically called out Spain, Ireland, and Norway, claiming that their criticisms of Israel’s operations in Gaza impose a legal responsibility on them to accept Gazans into their territory. He also suggested that their refusal would expose their “hypocrisy.”
Additionally, Katz pointed out that countries like Canada, which have structured immigration programs, have previously shown a willingness to take in people from Gaza.
Spain’s Foreign Minister, José Manuel Albares, quickly dismissed Katz’s remarks, stating that the rightful home of Gaza’s residents is Gaza and that it should remain part of any future Palestinian state.
Katz’s proposed plan includes multiple exit strategies, utilizing land crossings as well as coordinated departures by sea and air.
Expressing support for Trump’s initiative, Katz described it as a “bold move” that could provide new opportunities for those wishing to leave Gaza, help them resettle in other nations, and contribute to the long-term rebuilding of a demilitarized and stable Gaza after Hamas—a process he acknowledged would take years.
However, following backlash, the Trump administration appeared to soften its stance. Secretary of State Marco Rubio clarified that any relocation of Gazans would be temporary, while the White House emphasized that there was no definitive plan to deploy U.S. troops.
Despite the controversy, Trump defended his proposal, asserting that it had received widespread approval, though his comments during a White House press conference alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu were met with audible surprise from the audience.
