The U.S. and Israel are pursuing resettlement options for Palestinians in East Africa, coordinating with Sudan, Somalia, and Somaliland under Trump’s controversial plan. This initiative faces strong opposition from Palestinians and Arab nations, raising significant legal and moral concerns, yet remains a focus for U.S.-Israeli diplomatic efforts.
The United States and Israel are exploring options for resettling Palestinians displaced by conflict in Gaza, engaging with officials from Sudan, Somalia, and Somaliland. This initiative is part of President Donald Trump’s controversial postwar plan, which has faced backlash for its moral and legal implications. The proposal targets areas that are economically challenged and, in some cases, plagued by conflict, raising questions about the feasibility and humanitarian aspects of resettling Gazans in these regions.
Trump’s plan envisions relocating over two million Palestinians permanently, with the U.S. taking control of Gaza for redevelopment as real estate. However, this mass transfer idea, once deemed unrealistic, has gained traction since being discussed at a recent White House meeting, where Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu called it a “bold vision.”
Palestinians have categorically rejected the notion of resettlement, asserting any departures would not be voluntary. Arab nations oppose the plan, advocating for reconstruction that retains Palestinians within their homeland. Rights organizations have warned that coercing Palestinians to leave may constitute a war crime, yet the Trump administration remains unwavering.
Anonymous sources from the U.S. and Israel acknowledged ongoing talks with Somalia and Somaliland, as well as involving Sudan. Details regarding the discussions’ progress and their diplomatic levels remain unclear. These efforts began shortly after Trump proposed the Gaza initiative at a meeting with Netanyahu, with Israel spearheading the outreach.
The U.S. and Israel offer various incentives—financial, diplomatic, and security—to these potential host nations. This strategy mirrors the approach used in the Abraham Accords, inked by Trump five years ago. The White House, along with Israeli officials, declined to comment on the outreach initiative.
Israeli Minister of Finance Bezalel Smotrich has confirmed that efforts are underway to identify countries willing to accept Palestinian refugees. He also mentioned plans to establish a “very large emigration department” within Israel’s Ministry of Defense.
The U.S. and Israel are exploring resettlement options for Palestinians, focusing on East African nations amid significant opposition. Trump’s controversial plan aims at permanently relocating Gaza’s population but has raised critical legal and humanitarian questions. Despite pushback from Palestinians and Arab nations, the initiative continues, reflecting ongoing geopolitical complexities in the region.
Original Source: www.taipeitimes.com
