Tel aviv: Israeli National Security Minister and leader of the far-right Jewish Power party, Itamar Ben-Gvir, has unveiled a plan to displace 1.86 million Palestinians from the Gaza Strip over a seven-year period through what is being termed a 'voluntary migration' initiative. This announcement was made during a news conference as part of Ben-Gvir's election campaign, following a report by the Israeli media.
According to Anadolu Agency, the plan, named 'Disengagement 710,' was first detailed by the Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper. It proposes the creation of a special ministry tasked with executing the project, including the provision of 'absorption packages' for Palestinians relocating to other countries. Despite Ben-Gvir's claim that several countries are willing to receive Palestinian migrants, the report indicates that no nation has currently agreed to accept large numbers from Gaza.
The plan outlines a phased relocation, aiming to move 250,000 Palestinians in the first year, 1.11 million within three years, and the full 1.86 million by the end of seven years. As part of his campaign, Ben-Gvir has emphasized this initiative as a core element, asserting that his party will prioritize its adoption in any future government negotiations.
Key components of the plan include assigning a destination country for every Palestinian family or individual leaving Gaza, complete with legal status, necessary documentation, visas, financial support for travel, and initial housing arrangements. Additionally, the program promises vocational training, employment aid, and support for up to two years.
The initiative is built upon 12 principles, with a focus on "voluntary departure" and the assurance that no individual will leave without a country ready to provide them with legal status. Moreover, the plan suggests financial 'payments' to host countries based on their ability to meet security screenings and integration benchmarks.
Ben-Gvir's proposal requires an initial Israeli investment of 10 billion shekels ($3.3 billion), with long-term funding of up to 50 billion shekels ($16.6 billion) conditional upon international cooperation. He has called for the establishment of a dedicated 'migration ministry' to oversee the project, which includes appointing a minister and a special official responsible for its execution.
The Gaza Strip is currently home to approximately 2.13 million Palestinians. Israel's general elections, scheduled for October 27, are set against a backdrop of ongoing tension, following a two-year offensive in Gaza that began in October 2023 and persisted despite a ceasefire in October 2025. The current Israeli administration is noted for being the most right-wing in the nation's history.