Israel Urges European Nations to Accept Displaced Palestinians

Israel has called on European countries to take in displaced Palestinians amid ongoing conflicts, sparking debates on refugee policies and international diplomacy.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has directed the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to develop a plan aimed at encouraging Palestinians to leave Gaza, according to a post he shared on X this Thursday.

The minister further proposed that European countries opposing West Jerusalem’s military operations in the enclave should accept refugees. Katz argued that if these nations refused to take in Gazans, it would expose their “hypocrisy.”

This comes after US President Donald Trump stated on Tuesday that the US would “take over the Gaza Strip” and assume responsibility for its reconstruction. He further mentioned that Palestinians residing there should relocate, with support to be provided by “neighboring countries of great wealth.”

Katz has commended Trump’s “bold initiative” to move Palestinians out of Gaza.

He listed Spain, Ireland, and Norway as potential destinations, asserting that they have “falsely accused Israel” regarding its conflict with the Gaza-based Hamas militant group. As a result, he argued these countries are “legally obligated to allow Gazans to enter their territory.”

Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares responded to Katz’s remarks by rejecting the idea that Spain should take in displaced individuals from Gaza.

“Spain independently makes its own decisions without influence from others,” Albares stated to broadcaster RNE.

The minister emphasized that “Gaza belongs to the Gazans” and asserted that “Gaza must be included in a future Palestinian state.” He further stated that discussions about Palestinians leaving Gaza are now “settled,” and mentioned Spain’s efforts to deliver humanitarian aid as extensively as possible to support the people.

Ireland, which officially recognized Palestine as a state last year, also dismissed Katz’s remarks about accepting war refugees.

In a statement emailed to Reuters, the Irish Foreign Department emphasized that “The goal should be a significant increase in aid to Gaza, restoration of basic services, and an established plan for returning displaced individuals,” noting that “any contrary remarks are unhelpful and distracting.”