Kathmandu— Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has admitted that his government is still working on a plan to remove Palestinians from the Gaza Strip, stating that there is no real solution for Gaza without this migration. Speaking at a conference organized by Israeli publication Ynet on Wednesday, Katz emphasized that while U.S. President Donald Trump has frozen the plan, it remains under discussion and is considered the only viable option.

Ethnic Cleansing Allegations

Palestinian rights advocates have long argued that Israel's actions amount to ethnic cleansing of Gaza. Katz’s admission comes amid ongoing criticism from human rights groups who view the plan as a form of forced displacement. Some far-right Israeli officials have openly supported depopulating Gaza, and Trump had initially backed the idea early in his presidency.

US Involvement

The U.S. has been deeply involved in the situation, providing Israel with about $25 billion in military aid over the past three years and defending Israeli actions at international forums. Trump had sponsored a ceasefire deal that explicitly stated Palestinians have the right to remain in their land. However, Katz noted that while Trump has frozen the plan, it remains under discussion.

Implementation Challenges

Israel's plan faces significant challenges, including Egypt’s refusal to take in Palestinian refugees and other countries requiring U.S. support for accepting displaced Palestinians. Katz stated that Israel is prepared to execute the plan by sea, air, or any means necessary but acknowledged the need for U.S. backing.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.