The Hamas movement has responded to former Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s comments regarding a plan for the voluntary migration of Gaza Strip residents. In their statement, Hamas labeled Netanyahu’s plan as “ridiculous” and a mere attempt to market illusions in order to prolong aggression following the failure and inability of his so-called ‘Nazi army’ to achieve its goals. They accused Netanyahu of trying to escape from the obligation to stop the aggression and the genocide.
Hamas emphasized the Palestinian people’s firm stance against displacement and migration, stressing that there is no option other than remaining steadfast on their land. The movement declared that they would not allow any foreign enemy to implement any plan that would obscure their cause or displace their people from their land and holy sites.
Israeli newspaper “Israel Hayom” quoted Netanyahu saying that the issue is the lack of countries willing to absorb migrants from Gaza. Israeli media also reported that Netanyahu, in a Likud party session, advocated for a plan to encourage voluntary migration of Gaza’s residents to other countries. He reportedly said that efforts are ongoing to find nations willing to accept the residents of Gaza as refugees.
The recent situation in Gaza has been marked by significant violence and humanitarian concerns. According to a report by Al Jazeera, over the past day, there have been more than 200 deaths in Gaza, with 201 people killed and 368 wounded. The death toll in Gaza since October 7 has reached at least 20,977 Palestinians, with about 1,139 people killed in Israel. The majority of these casualties are reported to be in the southern regions of the Gaza Strip, including Khan Younis and Rafah.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed deep concern over the deteriorating situation in Gaza, with intensified bombing in the southern areas. The humanitarian aid reaching Gaza is considered insufficient, and there is growing worry about the vulnerability of the health system in this densely populated enclave. More than 600,000 people have reportedly been ordered to move to escape bombardment. The lack of sanitation and the conditions in the areas designated as safe by Israel are creating a “perfect storm” for outbreaks of disease. The areas designated as safe are reported to be lacking in basic necessities such as food, water, medicine, and shelter. The WHO also noted the removal of supplies from warehouses in Khan Younis due to an Israeli order, anticipating active combat in the area.