Israeli Minister Ben Gvir Proposes "Voluntary Emigration" Plan for Gaza Residents

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir unveiled a plan on Thursday aimed at encouraging the departure of the vast majority of Gaza's Palestinian population, which he termed "voluntary emigration." The proposal, named "Disengagement 710" in reference to the 2005 Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and the October 7th attack, outlines targets for departures: 250,000 in the first year, 1.11 million within three years, and 1.86 million within seven years. Ben Gvir stated, "Instead of illusions of peace now, we need emigration actions now," adding that his party, Otzma Yehudit, would demand the creation and leadership of an "Emigration Ministry" as a condition for joining the next government.

The plan includes an "integration package" for Gazans who agree to leave, offering travel assistance, initial housing, vocational training, employment, and up to 24 months of support. Financial aid would also be provided to host countries based on the number of individuals they accept. Potential destinations mentioned include Turkey, Ethiopia, Congo, and several unspecified Arab nations.

Otzma Yehudit estimates the program would require an initial investment of 10 billion shekels, with an additional 50 billion shekels contingent on international participation. Ben Gvir referenced past statements by Donald Trump supporting mass departures from Gaza, suggesting they made his plan more politically palatable. This proposal follows recent remarks by Defense Minister Israel Katz indicating that plans to facilitate mass emigration from Gaza were under consideration but had been "frozen" by Donald Trump. Trump had previously proposed relocating Gaza's approximately 2.3 million inhabitants in February 2025, but abandoned the idea due to international opposition and a lack of willing host countries.