Israel has said it has begun preparations for the departure of large numbers of Palestinians from the Gaza Strip in line with US President Donald Trump’s plan for the territory. Officials, meanwhile, said Egypt has launched a diplomatic blitz behind the scenes to try and head off the plan.
The Palestinians have rejected Mr. Trump’s proposal, fearing Israel will never allow the refugees to return and that it would destabilise the region.
Mr Trump said he wanted to permanently resettle most of Gaza’s population in other countries and for the United States to take charge of clearing debris and rebuilding Gaza as a Riviera of the Middle East for all people.
Egypt has warned that such a plan could undermine its peace treaty with Israel, a cornerstone of stability and American influence in the Middle East for decades. Saudi Arabia, another key US ally, has also rejected any mass transfer of Palestinians and says it will not normalise relations with Israel.
