U.S. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham and Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal have dismissed former President Donald Trump’s proposal to seize Gaza and relocate Palestinians, as Israeli leaders continue to support the controversial idea.

The senators, part of a bipartisan delegation that met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Tel Aviv, made their stance clear following the meeting. Netanyahu reiterated his support for Trump’s vision, which has drawn sharp criticism from Arab nations.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has instructed the military to develop a plan allowing Palestinians in Gaza to leave voluntarily. Additionally, he announced the creation of a directorate within the ministry to oversee the voluntary departure process.

However, Graham, a close Trump ally with significant influence on U.S. foreign policy, dismissed the proposal, stating, “There is little appetite in the Senate for America to take over Gaza in any way, shape, or form.” Blumenthal also rejected the plan, calling it a “non-starter.”

Arab officials have widely condemned the proposal, with some critics labeling it as ethnic cleansing. Meanwhile, Netanyahu reiterated on Monday that Palestinians in Gaza should be given the choice to leave.

Graham acknowledged that Trump had initiated a necessary discussion, noting that Arab states were now actively considering alternatives for Gaza’s future. Reports indicate that officials from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Jordan, and Egypt plan to meet this month to formulate a counterproposal that addresses regional concerns.

Blumenthal highlighted that Jordan’s King Abdullah assured him that Arab nations are working on a comprehensive plan. The proposal is expected to include measures for normalizing relations with Israel, Palestinian self-determination, regional defense coordination, and security assurances for Israel.

“If those components are part of a realistic plan, it could be a game-changer for the region,” Blumenthal stated.