Israeli Intelligence Director Seeks US Support for Gazan Resettlement

The head of Israel’s intelligence agency has reportedly called for assistance from the US regarding plans for resettling individuals from Gaza. David Barnea, the director of Mossad, is said to have discussed the matter with special envoy Steve Witkov during a visit to Washington, D.C.

Barnea indicated that countries such as Ethiopia, Indonesia, and Libya could be potential destinations for those displaced from Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has maintained that any relocation would be voluntary; however, critics view this suggestion as controversial, suggesting it could be seen as a potential violation of international law.

In a past conversation with former President Donald Trump, Barnea emphasized the principle of “free choice,” stating that people ought to be able to decide if they want to stay or leave, insisting that Gaza should not feel like a prison.

Despite the outreach, Israel’s Foreign Ministry did not provide any comments when approached for their perspective on the matter.

Witkov reportedly mentioned that countries like Ethiopia and Indonesia have shown willingness to accept thousands of refugees from Gaza, but there were no solid commitments made regarding potential US incentives to facilitate this resettlement. Initial support for the idea from Trump and Netanyahu has faced significant pushback from neighboring Arab nations.

Currently, it is estimated that around 2.1 million people reside in Gaza, amidst demands for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, a situation that has yet to yield fruitful discussions under US mediation.