U.S. and Israel Evaluate Syria, Sudan, Somalia, and Somaliland for Gazan Relocation

The U.S. and Israel are exploring Syria, Sudan, Somalia, and Somaliland as relocation options for Gazans. Initial reactions indicate significant opposition from these nations. Trump’s plan faces backlash, especially from Arab states, while Somaliland emerges as a unique, albeit complicated, potential site due to its strategic position and stability.

The United States and Israel are reportedly exploring options for relocating the population of Gaza, presently estimated at around two million. Considered potential destinations include Syria, Sudan, Somalia, and Somaliland, although initial reactions suggest that these efforts may be unsuccessful. Recent remarks from President Donald Trump indicated a desire to ‘take over’ Gaza, but many Arab nations have expressed strong opposition to his plans and are unwilling to accept the Gazan population.

Complex relations exist between Israel and the four potential countries for relocation. CBS News reported that the Trump administration attempted to communicate with Syria’s current government, despite its leader being previously labeled a terrorist by the U.S. Ahmad al-Shara, also known as Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, condemned the plan as a “serious crime that will ultimately fail,” although a senior Syrian official denied any engagement regarding the proposal.

Moreover, Israel has been critical of the new Syrian regime, yet the country might consider concessions for international aid amid its quest for relief from sanctions. Reports suggest that the U.S. and Israel also approached Sudan and Somalia regarding the relocation of Gazans. Although Sudan had initially engaged with Israel through the Abraham Accords, it now faces civil unrest and has no significant diplomatic relations with Israel.

Sudanese military chief Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan firmly rejected any notion of transferring Palestinians, calling it an unacceptable justification. Additionally, while Somalia has shown persistent support for Palestine, it is unlikely to accommodate Gazans. Somalia’s ambassador to the U.S. stated that the Somali government had not been contacted about the relocation proposals.

Significantly, Somaliland has emerged as an intriguing option because of its strategic location and political stability since its 1991 secession from Somalia, despite its lack of international recognition. It maintains close relationships with the UAE, a nation that has established ties with Israel, hinting at potential cooperation. Reports suggest that discussions were held regarding a military base for Israel in Somaliland as part of countering threats from Houthi militants in Yemen. An American official remarked on a “quiet conversation with Somaliland about a range of areas where they can be helpful to the U.S. in exchange for recognition.”

The ongoing search for potential relocation of Gazans by the U.S. and Israel has faced significant challenges, with strong opposition from numerous Arab states and complex diplomatic relations standing in the way. While potential destinations are being considered, the response from Syrian, Sudanese, and Somali officials indicates considerable resistance. Conversely, Somaliland presents a unique possibility, given its stability and strategic ties, but its status remains largely unrecognized internationally. The future of Gazan resettlement continues to be uncertain amid these geopolitical intricacies.

Original Source: allisrael.com