A first group of 100 Gazans is set to fly to Indonesia for work as part of a pilot program aimed at encouraging voluntary migration of Palestinians from Gaza, according to Israeli media reports. The program will be run by COGAT (Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories), a Defense Ministry body.
Program Details#
The Gazans will likely be employed in construction work in Indonesia, the world’s largest Muslim-majority country. If the pilot proves successful, Israel hopes thousands of Gazans will voluntarily relocate to Indonesia for work and potentially decide to permanently resettle—pending Jakarta’s consent.
Since Israel and Indonesia do not have diplomatic relations, a special communication channel was opened between Jerusalem and Jakarta to develop the program.
Political Context#
The initiative comes amid devastating destruction in Gaza following the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack on southern Israel. According to a September United Nations analysis, over two-thirds of Gaza’s structures have been damaged or destroyed during the subsequent war.
In early February, US President Donald Trump suggested the US “take over” Gaza and turn it into a “Middle East Riviera” while forcing Palestinian inhabitants to relocate to Egypt, Jordan, or other countries. While Trump later stated no Gazans would be expelled, his comments triggered global controversy.
Arab Response#
The Palestinian Authority and Arab nations have rejected forced relocation proposals. Earlier this month, two key Arab organizations endorsed an Egyptian counterproposal for rehabilitating Gaza based on leaving inhabitants in place.
Despite public opposition among regional leaders, the Israeli government has moved forward with plans to encourage voluntary Palestinian relocation.
Administrative Framework#
If the pilot succeeds, a “migration administration” being established by the Israeli government will assume responsibility for the program. Defense Minister Israel Katz is expected to appoint Brig. Gen. (res.) Ofer Winter to lead the project.
Implications for Indonesian-Israeli Relations#
The program represents an unusual channel of cooperation between Israel and Indonesia, two countries without formal diplomatic ties. Indonesia has historically been a strong supporter of the Palestinian cause, with regular pro-Palestinian demonstrations occurring across the country.
This development highlights the complex dynamics in Asian-Middle Eastern relations, where practical considerations sometimes transcend official political positions.
Source: The Times of Israel
