Israeli proposal to relocate Gaza’s population to Sahara sparks outrage

Thursday 04 September 2025 - 09:50

By: Dakir Madiha

Israeli proposal to relocate Gaza’s population to Sahara sparks outrage

An Israeli political analyst has stirred controversy with a radical proposal to relocate Gaza's population to Morocco’s Sahara, presenting it as a solution to the humanitarian crisis in the Palestinian territory.

Rafael Castro, writing for Israel National News, described his idea as a “realistic and sustainable solution” to the crisis in Gaza. Ignoring Israel’s siege on the enclave, Castro claimed the proposal could alleviate the suffering of over two million Palestinians while simultaneously bolstering Morocco’s regional position.

He suggested the Sahara, which he described as rich in resources but underpopulated, would be an ideal destination for Gaza’s displaced residents. Referring to the region’s phosphate reserves, fishing resources, and solar energy potential, Castro argued that hosting Gaza’s population would accelerate its development and enhance Morocco’s demographic presence in the area.

Disregard for sovereignty

The proposal has drawn criticism for disregarding Morocco’s sovereignty over Sahara, a territory the country has worked to develop and reintegrate. Castro’s suggestion also dismisses Morocco’s longstanding support for the Palestinian cause, framing the relocation as a geopolitical opportunity rather than a violation of Palestinians’ rights.

The analyst further argued that countries like Egypt, Jordan, and Lebanon, as well as Gulf states, Europe, and the US, are either unwilling or unable to absorb Palestinian refugees, leaving Morocco as the “most credible option.” He even suggested that Morocco could enhance its international prestige by positioning itself as “the savior of Palestinians.”

Hidden motives

Critics say Castro’s proposal is less about humanitarian concerns and more about serving Israel’s interests. By relocating Gaza’s population, Israel would remove what Castro called a “security threat” from its borders. This framing has sparked accusations that the plan is an attempt to whitewash the displacement of Palestinians while sidestepping Israel’s responsibility for the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Castro’s analysis contrasts Gaza’s densely populated and besieged territory with the vast expanses of the Sahara, portraying the relocation as an opportunity for growth and development. However, critics have labeled the proposal as unrealistic, colonial, and dismissive of both Palestinian and Moroccan sovereignty.

As international condemnation of Israel’s actions in Gaza grows, including calls for economic sanctions, the analyst’s proposal has been widely criticized as a misguided and self-serving attempt to address the crisis.