US-Israel Proposal for Palestinian Resettlement Faces Rejection

US and Israeli officials proposed resettling Palestinians in Sudan and Somalia. Sudan rejected the proposal, while Somalia and Somaliland claimed unawareness of the matter. A $53 billion reconstruction plan for Gaza was adopted by Arab leaders, contrasting with Trump’s controversial proposals that raised fears of permanent displacement for Palestinians. The situation heightened after recent Hamas attacks.

Recently, officials from Sudan, Somalia, and the self-declared region of Somaliland were approached regarding a proposal to resettle Palestinians. However, Sudanese representatives stated that they rejected the proposal, while officials from Somalia and Somaliland claimed they were unaware of any such discussions, according to reports from the Associated Press. Attempts by Reuters to obtain comments from the White House and the US State Department were met with silence, as were calls to officials in Somalia and Somaliland.

Earlier this month, Arab leaders endorsed a $53 billion reconstruction initiative for Gaza intended to support rebuilding efforts without displacing Palestinians. This plan contrasts sharply with US President Donald Trump’s earlier proposal for a “Middle East Riviera,” which suggested a takeover of Gaza amidst ongoing violence and destruction there. Trump’s suggestions raised long-standing concerns among Palestinians about their potential displacement.

In light of recent events, the militant group Hamas executed a cross-border operation into southern Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in increased Israeli military actions in Gaza that have caused a significant number of casualties among Palestinians. The situation remains fluid and contentious as international reactions continue to evolve.

In summary, the proposal to resettle Palestinians in Sudan and Somalia was met with rejection and denial. At the same time, Arab nation plans for Gaza’s reconstruction without displacing its inhabitants highlight a significant divergence from US policies, particularly those presented by President Trump. The recent escalation following Hamas’s raid has compounded the complexities of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region.

Original Source: www.odt.co.nz