U.S. and Israeli officials are exploring the possibility of displacing Palestinians from Gaza to Sudan, Somalia, and Somaliland, leading to significant backlash from those countries. Sudan has rejected the proposal, while Somalia and Somaliland claim ignorance of any discussions. The initiative follows controversial remarks by President Trump and raises concerns over ethics and diplomatic integrity.
Recent discussions between the United States and Israel have revolved around the potential forced displacement of Palestinians from Gaza to three East African locations: Sudan, Somalia, and the self-declared region of Somaliland. According to officials quoted by the Associated Press, while Sudan has declined these proposals, there were claims of no prior contacts from officials in Somalia and Somaliland.
The outreach effort originated shortly after comments made by President Trump regarding the displacement of Palestinians, which elicited strong criticism from Palestinians and several Middle Eastern nations, labeling the attempt as ethnic cleansing. The timeline indicates that discussions began last month as Israel took the lead, although the specifics and the level of progress in these talks remain unclear.
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich hinted at efforts to create a framework within the Israeli Ministry of Defense to facilitate “voluntary” emigration for Palestinians and indicated the pursuit of host countries for those displaced. Meanwhile, Tamer Qarmout from the Doha Institute condemned any initiatives leading to forced displacement, labeling it a dangerous precedent.
In exchange for accepting Palestinian refugees, it is believed that financial, diplomatic, and security incentives would be offered to these East African countries. One U.S. official remarked that a quiet dialogue with Somaliland has been ongoing, exploring potential benefits in exchange for recognition by the U.S.
Despite Somalia’s traditional support for Palestinian self-determination, which raises questions about the country’s willingness to host displaced individuals, some experts suspect ulterior motives in the realignment of diplomatic relations. Sudanese officials also confirmed receiving such proposals from the Trump administration but stated unequivocally that they rejected the notion without any subsequent discussions on the matter.
The potential proposal for the forced displacement of Palestinians from Gaza to East Africa, involving discussions between the U.S. and Israeli authorities, faces significant resistance. Countries like Sudan have outright rejected the idea, while Somalia and Somaliland express uncertainty regarding their involvement. Experts stress the ethical implications of such actions, underscoring a humanitarian perspective amid complex geopolitical maneuvering.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
