Netanyahu may seek Trump’s backing for Gaza relocation plan: Hebrew newspaper

Palestinian families living in the Shati Refugee Camp area in northern Gaza City try to continue their daily lives under difficult conditions among the rubble left by Israeli attacks, as families lacking basic necessities struggle to survive in makeshift tents set up near their destroyed homes on February 10, 2026. [Khalil Ramzi Alkahlut – Anadolu Agency]

Israel Hayom newspaper has reported that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to discuss with US President Donald Trump the possibility of mass migration from Gaza, following Hamas’s refusal to disarm.

The newspaper said the talks, which may take place today, would come amid efforts to prevent a return to war.

The report noted that President Trump first raised the idea a year ago, shortly after returning to the White House. Arab states strongly opposed the proposal at the time, which led to it being effectively set aside. A commitment to allow Gaza residents to live in dignity within the territory was also a key part of the Arab-backed Trump’s 20-point plan.

However, the newspaper said that, given the difficulties facing the implementation of that plan and as a means of putting pressure on Hamas, the idea of opening Gaza’s borders has re-emerged. It added that supporters of the proposal argue it could prevent another outbreak of fighting between Israel and Hamas.

According to the report, President Trump has repeatedly supported calls for Hamas to disarm and may now raise the migration proposal again as a way to achieve that aim.

In a related development, The New York Times reported, citing officials, that a draft proposal under preparation would see Washington call on Hamas to hand over weapons capable of striking Israel. The draft would allow Hamas to retain light arms during an initial phase.

The newspaper added that a US team including Jared Kushner, Steve Witkoff and Nickolay Mladenov plans to present the document to Hamas within weeks.

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