Tel Aviv, February 18, 2025: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reaffirmed his commitment to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s plan to take control of Gaza and displace its Palestinian residents, despite widespread opposition from Arab states.
Netanyahu stated that neither Hamas nor the Palestinian Authority would govern Gaza after the ongoing 15-month war, which has killed over 48,000 Palestinians and created a severe humanitarian crisis.
Speaking alongside U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Jerusalem, Netanyahu praised Trump’s “bold vision” for Gaza’s future. In support of the plan, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced a new directorate to facilitate the “voluntary departure” of Palestinians, offering logistical support for those willing to emigrate.
Trump’s proposal has been widely condemned by Arab nations, with Saudi Arabia leading efforts to draft an alternative plan, including a Gulf-led reconstruction fund and efforts to sideline Hamas. The Saudi Foreign Ministry has rejected any forced displacement of Palestinians.
Rubio, who met Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh, emphasized U.S. openness to alternative proposals but stated that Trump’s plan remains the only official framework.
Meanwhile, Israel’s security cabinet is set to discuss the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire, which includes the release of captives and Palestinian prisoners. Far-right members of Netanyahu’s coalition, including Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, have threatened to resign if the war does not resume.
Netanyahu, facing domestic pressure from hostage families and U.S. officials, warned that “the gates of hell will be opened” if all Israeli captives are not freed. Critics argue he is delaying the ceasefire process to maintain political support from hardliners.
