Nearly 80% of Gazans are interested in emigrating from the Gaza Strip, according to a recent survey the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) shared with senior Israeli officials.
The findings, seen by The Jerusalem Post, underscore growing frustration among Gaza’s civilian population as Hamas continues to refuse to disarm - a key condition in the plan presented by US President Donald Trump and a central element in efforts toward postwar reconstruction.
As part of the survey conducted by COGAT, respondents were asked which issues they would like “additional information about for the Palestinian public.”
Nearly 80% said they were interested in receiving information about mechanisms for relocating to a third country through the Rafah and Kerem Shalom crossings. Another 17.5% sought additional information about food supplies and humanitarian aid, while only around 2.5% expressed interest in medical humanitarian issues.
Israeli officials viewed the findings as evidence that a substantial portion of Gaza’s population is focused primarily on opportunities to leave the territory, as prospects for reconstruction and long-term change remain remote.
Since the war began following the October 7 massacre, more than 44,000 Gazans - including medical patients and individuals holding visas for third countries - have exited the Strip through the Rafah and Kerem Shalom crossings. Approximately 2,500 departed through Rafah after the crossing reopened in February under the ceasefire arrangement.
Some Israeli officials believe the true number of Gazans interested in leaving may be significantly higher.
“It is possible that some respondents did not fully understand the question or may have been reluctant to express their views openly,” an Israeli security official said during the discussion.
COGAT oversees delivery of 30,000 aid trucks into Gaza
Additionally, COGAT facilitated the entry of 30,000 humanitarian aid trucks into Gaza between May 10 and May 14, according to a Monday release.
This operation included a large shipment of engine oil to ensure the continued operation of UN humanitarian facilities.
The group also reported that over 440 tons of medical equipment were delivered to Gaza during the week, including 10 trucks of medicine and medical supplies provided by the World Health Organization (WHO).
COGAT also supported approximately 130 Gazans who were evacuated to Jordan via the Kerem Shalom Crossing.
Jerusalem Post Staff contributed to this report.