A senior Hamas official, Sami Abu Zuhri, has urged supporters worldwide to take up arms against US President Donald Trump’s plan to relocate over two million Gazans to neighboring countries, such as Egypt and Jordan. Abu Zuhri described the plan as “sinister,” combining “massacres with starvation,” and called on anyone capable of bearing arms to take action.
Trump’s proposal, initially floated in January, suggested relocating Gaza’s population to other countries, but was met with widespread international condemnation. Trump later backtracked, saying he was “not forcing” the plan, and emphasizing the US’s potential role in developing the region. The proposal has been rejected by Egypt, Jordan, and other Arab allies, as well as the Palestinians themselves.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu offered to let Hamas leaders leave Gaza, but demanded the group disarm in the final stages of the war. Netanyahu confirmed Israel is working towards implementing Trump’s plan, describing it as a “voluntary migration plan.” Israel’s Defence Minister, Israel Katz, announced the establishment of a special agency to facilitate the “voluntary departure” of Gazans.
The international community has condemned Trump’s plan, with many expressing concern over the humanitarian implications. The United Nations has warned of a potential catastrophe, emphasizing the need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Arab nations have proposed an alternative plan for rebuilding the Gaza Strip without relocating its people, under the administration of the Ramallah-based Palestinian Authority.
The conflict has resulted in significant humanitarian crises, with at least 1,001 people killed since the fighting restarted. Israel’s retaliatory military campaign has killed over 50,357 people in Gaza, mostly civilians. The Gaza Strip is facing a severe shortage of food, water, and medical supplies, with many residents struggling to access basic necessities.
Hamas has vowed to resist Trump’s plan, with Abu Zuhri emphasizing the group’s commitment to defending the Palestinian people. Hamas has also accused Israel of attempting to exploit the humanitarian crisis for political gain.
The situation in Gaza remains dire, with the humanitarian crisis deepening by the day. The international community must come together to condemn Trump’s plan and support a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The Palestinian people deserve the right to self-determination and dignity, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure their rights are respected.