According to information published by Israel Hayom, the U.S. is seriously promoting a large-scale evacuation of Gaza’s population. This is not merely rhetoric, as many in Israel had assumed.
The Concept: Reducing Hamas’ Civilian Support Base
Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, conveyed messages stating that the evacuation is a crucial component of the administration’s plan to resolve the conflict. “In light of the atrocities of October 7, it is inconceivable that Hamas will continue ruling Gaza,” Witkoff said in meetings in Israel.
Hamas Relies on Civilian Backing
Hamas enjoys broad support from Gaza’s civilian population. The photo below shows a children’s room built over the tunnel shaft where the bodies of six hostages were discovered.
The idea is to weaken Hamas’ grip by drastically reducing the population that provides the organization with legitimacy and support. The U.S. position suggests that once there are no civilians in Gaza—or their numbers significantly decline—Hamas will also lose control.
Egyptian President Holds “Positive” Talks with Trump; Arab Nations Oppose
Arab states have expressed immediate opposition to the plan. Yesterday, Trump and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi held a phone call on the issue. The conversation was described as “positive,” but a joint statement issued by Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, and the UAE declared: “We reject the forced displacement of Palestinians and call for a just resolution within the framework of the two-state vision.”
Israel Will Not Allow a Hamas “Shadow Government”
For now, due to the sensitivity and significance of the matter, Israel is maintaining silence, despite reports that the proposal was initially presented to Trump by Netanyahu’s envoy, Minister Ron Dermer, as published in Israel Hayom.
Nevertheless, some officials cautiously welcomed the plan. A senior Israeli figure suggested that Hamas may eventually succumb to international pressure and relinquish control of Gaza. “Hamas is beginning to understand that it must hand over the keys,” the official said. However, he emphasized that Israel will not allow Hamas to establish a “shadow government,” similar to Hezbollah’s model in Lebanon.
