Israel’s Ben-Gvir proposes ‘voluntary migration’ of millions of Palestinians

Itamar Ben-Gvir has presented a plan to remove most Palestinians from the Gaza Strip through what he calls organised “voluntary migration”, saying he hopes to advance it if Israel’s governing coalition remains in power after the October 27 election.

The proposal sets targets of 250,000 Gaza residents leaving in the first year, 1.11 million within three years and 1.86 million within seven years. Gaza’s population is estimated at about 2.3 million.

“Instead of delusions about peace, we need action on migration now,” Ben-Gvir said. “Instead of digging tunnels, it is time for them to pack their bags.” He said establishing and leading a Ministry of Migration would be one of his Jewish Power party’s main demands for joining the next government.

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Instead of delusions about peace, we need action on migration now

Under the proposal, those who leave would receive a “welcome and resettlement package” including travel assistance, initial housing, vocational training, employment and support for up to 24 months. Countries receiving Gaza residents would also receive financial assistance based on the number of people accepted. Turkey, Ethiopia, Congo and Arab countries were cited as possible destinations.

Ben-Gvir said he was once dismissed as a delusional extremist, but claimed the plan gained legitimacy after President Donald Trump publicly said encouraging migration could be a solution to Gaza. His proposal came a day after Defense Minister Israel Katz said plans to facilitate mass migration from Gaza were still under discussion and had merely been “frozen” by Trump. Trump had initially proposed relocating Gaza’s roughly 2.3 million residents in February 2025. The idea prompted strong opposition, including from Egypt, and condemnation by Palestinians. Trump later abandoned it after international reaction and a lack of countries willing to receive Gaza’s residents.

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Instead of digging tunnels, it is time for them to pack their bags.