Ankara: Israel's Security Cabinet has approved the formation of a directorate to encourage what it called the 'voluntary departure' of Palestinians from the war-ravaged Gaza Strip. Defense Minister Israel Katz announced that the new directorate will facilitate the safe and controlled passage of Gaza residents wishing to depart to third countries.

According to Anadolu Agency, Katz's office detailed that the new administration will manage the establishment of movement routes, oversee pedestrian checks at designated crossings in Gaza, and coordinate the necessary infrastructure for passage by land, sea, and air to destination countries. This initiative aligns with the vision of US President Donald Trump, which Katz claims adheres to Israeli and international law.

Katz emphasized the Israeli government's commitment to implementing the US president's vision, stating that any Gaza resident wishing to relocate to a third state will be permitted to do so. The head of the new directorate, responsible for overseeing these efforts, will be appointed by the defense minister shortly.

President Trump's plan to 'take over' Gaza and transform it into a tourist destination has faced significant international opposition. Critics argue that the plan resembles ethnic cleansing, with widespread rejection from the Arab world and other nations.

The backdrop to this development includes a recent surprise aerial campaign by the Israeli army on Gaza, resulting in over 700 Palestinian deaths and more than 1,000 injuries. This military action disrupted a ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement established in January. Since October 2023, nearly 50,000 Palestinians, primarily women and children, have been killed, with over 113,000 injured due to the ongoing military assault on Gaza.

In response to these events, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants last November for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, citing war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza.