Initially, it was unclear whether Trump wanted Gazans to temporarily or permanently leave the Gaza Strip during its reconstruction. Israelis responded with a mix of support and scepticism. US officials later clarified there were no plans to commit funds or troops to the initiative.

Already, the fragile deal has come under considerable stress, and it could collapse in the weeks to come. Yet for the time being, the fighting has stopped in both Gaza and Lebanon, and hostages have begun to come home.

US President Donald Trump’s idea of depopulating and taking over Gaza was broadly welcomed in Israel, with officials praising the surprise proposal as a means to beef up security following the war with Hamas.