By Gloria Ogbonna
A newly released Gallup poll has revealed that more than half of Gaza’s residents would leave the war-ravaged enclave if given the opportunity, highlighting the deepening humanitarian crisis in the region.
Conducted between March 2 and March 13 and reported by the Telegraph, the survey found that 52% of Gazans expressed a desire to relocate—14% permanently and 38% temporarily—seeking refuge in other countries. Meanwhile, only 39% said they had no intention of leaving.
Germany topped the list of preferred destinations, followed closely by Egypt, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates—countries that already host large Palestinian communities.
The survey also found that younger Gazans, particularly those in heavily bombed areas such as Gaza City and Khan Younis, were the most eager to leave, driven by the bleak prospects of rebuilding their lives in a war zone.
The poll’s findings come as Israel remains locked in an intense conflict with Hamas following the terrorist attacks of October 7, 2023—the deadliest assault in Israel’s history.
Thousands of Hamas militants stormed Israeli communities, massacring civilians at an outdoor music festival, raiding homes, and committing widespread atrocities, including kidnappings, executions, and other brutal acts.
The attack prompted Israel to launch a sustained military campaign aimed at dismantling Hamas’ military infrastructure.
In response to the crisis, former U.S. President Donald Trump has outlined a bold new vision for Gaza’s future.
During a February press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump proposed a plan to resettle Gaza’s population while simultaneously transforming the strip into a thriving economic hub.
This marks a major departure from previous U.S. policies, shifting the focus from traditional ceasefire agreements to a long-term regional realignment.
Trump’s proposal has gained traction among Israeli leaders. Defense Minister Israel Katz recently announced the creation of a government department dedicated to overseeing the voluntary relocation of Gazans to third countries.
This initiative aligns with Trump’s strategy of reducing Hamas’ power by giving civilians an exit strategy, rather than forcing them to remain in an active war zone under the terror group’s rule.
“I welcome President Trump’s bold initiative,” Katz declared. “This is an opportunity for Gaza’s residents to seek a better future while ensuring Israel’s security.”
A Gallup poll of Gazans found that, if given the opportunity to leave Gaza, more than half of them would leave—either temporarily or permanently pic.twitter.com/YOfk7VnFTh
— Amit Segal (@AmitSegal) March 21, 2025
Meanwhile, the Israeli military is intensifying its ground operations in Gaza, with reports suggesting that a renewed offensive will be used to further advance the migration plan.
According to the Jerusalem Post, Israeli forces believe Hamas remains unwilling to negotiate in hostage talks, prolonging the conflict and worsening conditions for civilians.
Despite criticism from mainstream media and human rights groups labeling Trump’s resettlement plan as unethical, there is growing evidence that many Gazans support the idea.
The United States stands firmly with Israel and the people of the Middle East, which haven’t experienced peace in many, many years. Violence and hatred do not have to define the region’s future.
Today, President Trump took bold action in hopes of achieving lasting peace in… https://t.co/mk5FthXNZz
— Speaker Mike Johnson (@SpeakerJohnson) February 5, 2025
A report from the Center for Peace Communications suggests that for thousands of civilians, relocation is the “only solution” to escape the devastation of war and rebuild their lives in more stable environments.
Breitbart News has reported that a movement is emerging among Gazans who are speaking out in favor of international assistance to help them leave. However, many fear retribution from Hamas, which has a history of violently suppressing dissent.
For the U.S., facilitating a migration plan could serve multiple strategic goals. It may ease military tensions, weaken Hamas’ influence, and shift the humanitarian burden to wealthier Arab nations and Western allies.
Furthermore, it could open doors for broader cooperation between Israel, Egypt, and Gulf states to stabilize the region in the long term.
“I'm asking Trump himself to relocate us. I'll be the first one to go.”
Gazans respond to President Trump’s envisioned relocation of civilians.
Watch: pic.twitter.com/tExKqZJHjP
— Center for Peace Communications (@PeaceComCenter) February 6, 2025
As the conflict rages on, the question remains: Will the international community step up to offer Gazans a path to safety, or will they remain trapped in a war zone under Hamas’ control? The coming months may determine the fate of thousands seeking a way out of one of the world’s most volatile regions.
Source Breitbart