Israeli media reported that Defense Minister Yoav Gallant ordered the military to prepare a plan allowing Gaza residents to leave the enclave. This follows U.S. President Donald Trump's announcement that the U.S. plans to take control of Gaza and relocate Palestinians elsewhere.

Gallant stated that the plan would include options for departure via land crossings, sea, and air, welcoming Trump's proposal as an opportunity for Gazans to integrate into host countries and facilitate Gaza's reconstruction.

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich supported Gallant's decision, emphasizing that relocating Gazans is the only realistic solution to ensure Israel's security and Gaza's welfare. He reiterated that this approach has been discussed for years, particularly since the war began.

Trump proposed relocating Palestinians from Gaza to Egypt and Jordan, demolishing remaining structures to develop a "Riviera-style" project, and placing the territory under U.S. ownership. However, international treaties prohibit forced displacement and land seizure.

Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares rejected Gallant's proposal, asserting that Gaza belongs to its residents and should be part of a future Palestinian state. He criticized countries like Spain, Ireland, and Norway, which recognized Palestine, for being legally obligated to accept Gazans under such plans.

Trump's vague plan aims to transform war-torn Gaza into an "amazing" place by clearing explosives, rebuilding the economy, and temporarily relocating Palestinians. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio clarified that the proposal is not hostile but a generous offer for reconstruction, though the White House confirmed the U.S. will not fund Gaza's rebuilding.