Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu strongly backed U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposal to relocate Palestinians from Gaza. He called the plan “the first fresh idea in years” and stated it could change the situation in Gaza.

Trump’s Controversial Proposal

Trump’s plan suggests relocating nearly 2 million Palestinians from Gaza to create a "Riviera of the Middle East." This idea has sparked significant backlash. Middle Eastern countries like Saudi Arabia and Egypt, as well as the United Nations, have criticized it as a form of “ethnic cleansing.”

Netanyahu Defends the Plan

During an interview with Fox News, Netanyahu argued that Palestinians would not be forcibly removed. He explained, “Not ethnic cleansing. Gaza is an open-air prison. Why keep them there?” He added that Palestinians could temporarily relocate, with the option to return if they renounce terrorism.

Challenge of Relocation

Netanyahu acknowledged the challenge of deciding where to send the displaced Palestinians. Despite this, he continued to call Trump’s plan “a novel approach” and “the correct approach.”

Ceasefire and U.S. Pressure

Regarding the ceasefire deal with Hamas, Netanyahu denied that U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff pressured him into it. He clarified that he had agreed to the deal months earlier, but Hamas had rejected it. Netanyahu also commented on the Biden administration's position. While he appreciated initial support, he noted that Biden’s White House warned Israel that if it moved into Rafah, the U.S. would stop sending weapons.

Israel’s Ultimate Goal: Defeating Hamas

Finally, Netanyahu reiterated Israel's main objective: the complete elimination of Hamas. He stressed that Israel cannot afford to become a "vassal state" under pressure.