Spain has responded to Israel after requesting that they take in Gazans, making it clear that "no third party should tell them what to do." This was stated by the Spanish Minister of Foreign Affairs, José Manuel Albares, emphasizing that Spanish solidarity with the Palestinian people is unquestionable. Albares mentioned that Spain has welcomed Palestinians who need it on a case-by-case basis, such as sick children or people seeking asylum, but stressed that Palestine is the home of Palestinians and Gaza is the place of Gazans.
This arose following the order from Israeli Defense Minister, Israel Katz, to prepare a plan to allow civilians who wish to leave the Gaza Strip. Katz mentioned that countries like Spain, Ireland, and Norway are "legally obliged" to take in Gazans, following the plan proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump, which seeks to permanently resettle Palestinians.
Israel Katz has praised Trump's plan, mentioning that it would allow residents of Gaza to seek refuge in various parts of the world, as they are currently "hostages" of Hamas. Additionally, he called on the Armed Forces to devise a plan to ensure the safety of those wishing to emigrate from Gaza.
The proposed plan would include exits through border crossings, specific air and sea routes for this situation. Katz has highlighted that residents of Gaza should have the freedom to emigrate, as Hamas has used this area for terrorist activities, endangering the civilian population. Moreover, he warned countries like Spain, Ireland, Norway, and Canada that if they refuse to host Palestinians, it will reveal their hypocrisy in this matter.
