U.S. and Israel Consider Gazan Resettlement in Africa and Syria

The Trump administration and Israel are exploring resettlement of Gazans to Sudan, Somalia, and Syria as part of a reconstruction effort. However, there has been no formal agreement nor communication with these countries. Concerns arise regarding the suitability of these nations to handle such an influx, given ongoing conflicts and security threats.

The Trump administration, alongside Israel, has engaged with at least two African nations regarding the relocation of Gazans to aid in the reconstruction of Gaza. Additionally, there is interest in involving Syria in this initiative, as reported by CBS News based on insights from three sources familiar with the discussions.

In early February, former President Trump emphasized the need for relocation, stating that humanitarianly inclined countries are willing to assist in accommodating the 1.8 million Palestinians in Gaza in order to alleviate suffering and destruction. However, he later clarified that “nobody is expelling any Palestinians,” asserting that any decisions to leave Gaza would be voluntary, given the current dire conditions in the territory.

The Somali ambassador to the United States, Dahir Hassan, indicated that no formal communications have occurred between the Somali government and either the U.S. or Israeli authorities regarding the proposed relocation. He warned that circulating unverified information could enhance recruitment efforts by extremist organizations such as ISIS and Al-Shabaab, intensifying regional security issues.

Moreover, a senior Syrian official noted a lack of knowledge concerning any outreach efforts from the U.S. or Israel regarding this matter. The contexts of both Sudan and Somalia pose significant challenges, with Sudan embroiled in civil unrest and famine, while Somalia continues to be threatened by the militant group Al-Shabaab. Syria’s new government, still establishing stability after a lengthy authoritarian regime, also appears ill-prepared for an influx of displaced persons.

The proposed resettlement of Gazans to African nations such as Sudan and Somalia, as well as potential involvement from Syria, raises significant humanitarian and security concerns. While the former U.S. administration seeks to address the conditions in Gaza, the practical challenges in these nations, combined with the response from their respective governments, underline the complexity of such a plan. The situation necessitates careful consideration of the implications for both the Gazan population and the host nations.

Original Source: www.inkl.com