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The United States has criticized Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich for suggesting the reconstruction of settlements in the Gaza Strip and the promotion of “voluntary emigration” of Palestinians.

During their party meetings at the Knesset, Ben Gvir and Smotrich articulated their stance, considering the “migration” of Palestinian civilians a solution to the ongoing conflict and a necessary step for the stability and safety of southern Israel’s residents.

Ben Gvir described the policy as “a correct, just, moral and humane solution,” emphasizing the refusal to withdraw from any territory in the Gaza Strip and advocating for the resettlement of Jews there. Similarly, Smotrich declared the “voluntary migration of Gaza’s residents” as the correct solution, predicting Israel’s permanent control over the Gaza territory.

The United States State Department rejected the Israeli ministers’ remarks, labeling them “inflammatory and irresponsible.” They added, “We have been told repeatedly and consistently by the Government of Israel, including by the Prime Minister, that such statements do not reflect the policy of the Israeli government. They should stop immediately. We have been clear, consistent, and unequivocal that Gaza is Palestinian land and will remain Palestinian land, with Hamas no longer in control of its future and with no terror groups able to threaten Israel. That is the future we seek, in the interests of Israelis and Palestinians, the surrounding region, and the world.”