Israeli defence minister says Israel ready to relocate Gaza population pending US plan

Israel’s Defence Minister, Itamar Katz, told reporters on Wednesday that the country is “organised and prepared” to remove Palestinians from Gaza by every means possible, adding that there is no alternative solution to the crisis. Katz said the Israeli government is simply awaiting a U.S. plan for where to relocate the displaced Gazans. The remarks were made during a brief press briefing in which Katz reiterated that Israel’s military strategy includes the complete evacuation of the Gaza Strip if necessary.

The statement comes amid escalating tensions in the region and follows a series of Israeli military operations aimed at neutralising Hamas positions. Katz’s comments underscore the Israeli government’s stance that any resolution must involve the removal of Palestinian residents from Gaza, while placing the responsibility for their displacement on the United States. The international community has expressed concern over the humanitarian implications of such a move, and the U.S. has yet to outline a concrete plan for the displaced population.