Tel Aviv: Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz ordered the army on Thursday to prepare a plan to allow Palestinians to 'voluntarily' leave the enclave.

According to Anadolu Agency, Katz instructed the army "to prepare a plan to allow voluntary departure for Gaza residents, including special arrangements for exit by sea and air." This directive follows US President Donald Trump's statement on Tuesday that the US would 'take over' Gaza after resettling its people elsewhere.

Katz expressed support for Trump's plan, stating, "I welcome US President Trump's bold plan, which could allow a large population in Gaza to leave for various places in the world." He identified potential host countries for Palestinians, including Spain, Ireland, and Norway, accusing them of making false accusations against Israel due to its activities in Gaza.

The defense minister suggested that the 'voluntary departure' of Palestinians would facilitate reconstruction plans in a demilitarized and threat-free Gaza. Katz's statements elicited no immediate response from the mentioned European nations.

Trump's proposal for a Gaza takeover and relocation of its residents has faced widespread condemnation from Palestinians, Arab countries, and many other nations, including Canada, France, Germany, and the UK. Regional Arab nations such as Egypt and Jordan have also rejected the idea of accepting Palestinians from Gaza.

The proposal emerged after a ceasefire agreement was implemented in Gaza on Jan. 19, halting Israel's conflict that resulted in over 47,500 Palestinian casualties and extensive destruction in the enclave.