A senior Israeli official accompanying Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel intends to remove Palestinians from Gaza once Hamas is eliminated and hostages are freed. The official described this as “voluntary migration,” though critics argue the term masks forced displacement. Israel has repeatedly denied accusations of genocide, maintaining that its war aims are solely to dismantle Hamas and secure hostage releases.

Since October 2023, Netanyahu has publicly focused on these objectives, but recent reports suggest a broader plan to depopulate Gaza, aligning with former U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposal to resettle Palestinians elsewhere. Netanyahu has reportedly directed Mossad to identify nations willing to accept displaced Gazans, though no country has yet agreed. Some, however, have shown conditional interest, seeking strategic concessions rather than financial incentives.

Hamas has repeatedly offered to release all hostages in exchange for a permanent ceasefire, but Israel has rejected such deals, opting instead for military pressure. The official acknowledged the risk to hostages but dismissed concerns, stating, “It doesn’t matter if they die – it does, it’s terrible, but they are suffering.” Most freed hostages were secured during past ceasefires, while others have died, including some from Israeli military actions.

Despite international backlash, Israel appears determined to pursue Trump’s resettlement plan, though no willing host nations have been confirmed. The official emphasized that Israel is “very serious” about this strategy, signaling a long-term goal of emptying Gaza of its Palestinian population. Meanwhile, fighting continues, with rising civilian casualties and worsening humanitarian conditions.