Pakistan, July 16 -- JERUSALEM - An Israeli proposal to create a "humanitarian city" in Gaza has sparked widespread political debate and international concern, with no concrete plan in place yet. Defence Minister Israel Katz floated the idea earlier this month, suggesting a relocation of around 600,000 displaced Palestinians to a new encampment in southern Gaza near the Egyptian border.

Although Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held talks with defence officials on Sunday to discuss the idea, insiders revealed that he rejected the initial military proposal, calling it too expensive and complex. He instead directed them to craft a cheaper, faster alternative, despite no clear framework being presented yet.

Critics, including opposition l...