The US and Israel are reportedly exploring Syria as a potential relocation site for around 2 million Gazans, with no official response from Syria. Previous options included Sudan and Somalia, but Sudan rejected the request. President Trump’s plan raised tensions, especially with Egypt, which opposes displacement. Israel’s relationship with Syria remains strained since the Assad regime’s fall.
Recently, the United States and Israel have proposed Syria as a potential location for the relocation of approximately 2 million residents from Gaza. According to CBS News, an anonymous US official indicated that the Trump administration had attempted to communicate with Syria’s interim government through intermediaries. However, another US source mentioned that there has been no response from Syria regarding this suggestion. Additionally, a Syrian official stated that there had been no discussions between Syria and the US or Israel on this issue.
Prior to the consideration of Syria, the US explored options in East Africa, specifically targeting Sudan, Somalia, and the unrecognized region of Somaliland as possible resettlement areas for displaced Gazans. However, Sudan reportedly turned down this request. These discussions align with President Trump’s earlier announcements aimed at relocating Gaza’s residents as part of a reconstruction plan for the war-torn region, which has suffered extensive damage during the conflict between Hamas and Israel.
Trump’s initial proposition involved relocating displaced Palestinians to Egypt, but this suggestion faced significant opposition from Egyptian authorities. In response, there have been efforts within the pan-Arab community to formulate a rebuilding plan for Gaza that allows its residents to remain in place.
Tensions have remained high between Israel and Syria, especially following the fall of the Assad regime in December 2024. Israel continues to be concerned about the interim government in Syria and has occupied southern regions to counter Iranian and Hezbollah movements within the area.
The US and Israel’s consideration of Syria as a resettlement option for Gaza’s residents reflects ongoing humanitarian and political dilemmas in the region. Both countries have faced resistance in their attempts to relocate Palestinians, highlighting significant geopolitical tensions, particularly with Egypt and Sudan. The situation remains complex, with the local and international responses continuing to evolve.
Original Source: themedialine.org
