The U.S. and Israel are exploring the resettlement of Palestinians from Gaza in three East African nations: Sudan, Somalia, and Somaliland. This plan faces rejection from Sudan, and skepticism from Somalia and Somaliland due to ongoing political instability and humanitarian concerns. Palestinian leaders and Arab nations have condemned the proposal, deeming it legally and morally questionable.
The United States and Israel have initiated discussions with three East African governments—Sudan, Somalia, and Somaliland—regarding the potential resettlement of Palestinians displaced from Gaza in accordance with President Donald Trump’s proposed plan. This initiative has been met with skepticism due to the poor conditions and violence in these nations, raising questions about Trump’s claims of providing a “beautiful area” for resettlement.
Sudan has explicitly rejected overtures from the U.S., while officials in Somalia and Somaliland stated they were unaware of any such discussions. The intention behind Trump’s plan, which aims to relocate over two million Gazans, has been met with condemnation from Palestinian representatives and various Arab nations, who argue it violates international law.
The outreach to these countries reportedly began soon after Trump proposed the Gaza resettlement alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Despite the hostility towards the plan, the U.S. and Israel are prepared to extend financial, diplomatic, and security incentives to encourage acceptance, similar to strategies employed in the past.
In Sudan, the military-led government has rebuffed proposals to accept Palestinians, citing the dire conditions of the ongoing civil war. Two Sudanese officials confirmed discussions occurred related to military assistance and other incentives but were ultimately rejected by Sudan, denouncing any plans to transfer Palestinians elsewhere.
Somaliland, while seeking international recognition, may be influenced by the U.S. in discussions about potential immigration. Nevertheless, officials there assert that no proposals have been made to them regarding resettling Palestinians.
Conversely, Somalia remains very supportive of Palestinians and has openly protested U.S. plans, leading to speculation about its willingness to accept Palestinian refugees. Somali officials have indicated that they have not been approached regarding resettlement discussions, reflecting the lack of consensus in the region regarding Trump’s proposal.
In summary, the discussions by the U.S. and Israel to resettle Palestinians in East Africa, particularly in countries like Sudan, Somalia, and Somaliland, have faced significant rejection and opposition. While Trump’s administration is seeking to pursue this controversial initiative, the prevalent social, political, and economic conditions in these nations portray a daunting challenge. The situation remains dynamic, and the success of these efforts is highly uncertain, given the firm resistance from both government officials and the Palestinian population itself.
Original Source: www.newsday.com
