US and Israel Discuss Displacement of Palestinians to East Africa

The United States and Israel have initiated discussions with Sudan, Somalia, and Somaliland regarding the forced displacement of Palestinians from Gaza. Sudan has rejected these overtures, while Somalia and Somaliland remain unaware of any formal contacts. Concerns have been voiced by experts regarding the ethical implications of this situation, emphasizing accountability in addressing such proposals.

The United States and Israel are reportedly engaging in discussions with three East African nations regarding the potential forced displacement of Palestinians from Gaza. This initiative involves Sudan, Somalia, and Somaliland, as indicated by US and Israeli officials speaking to The Associated Press. While officials from Sudan claim to have declined participation, those from Somalia and Somaliland stated they were unaware of any such talks.

US and Israeli officials, originally speaking on the condition of anonymity, confirmed that discussions with Somalia and Somaliland continue, albeit the specifics regarding their progress remain unclear. This development follows remarks by former US President Donald Trump suggesting the forcible displacement of Palestinians, a proposition met with significant criticism as an act of ethnic cleansing by Palestinian representatives and various Middle Eastern governments.

Outreach efforts from both the US and Israel to Sudan, Somalia, and Somaliland reportedly commenced shortly after Trump initially proposed the Gaza plan. Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has corroborated the intention behind the voluntary emigration of Palestinians, stating that efforts are underway to establish a “very large emigration department” within Israel’s Ministry of Defense to facilitate these discussions.

Tamer Qarmout, an associate professor at the Doha Institute for Graduate Studies, expressed concerns on Al Jazeera, labeling the forced displacement of Palestinians as a “red line.” He called on the international community to stand against this proposal, emphasizing the ongoing struggles of African nations impacted by colonialism.

Furthermore, it is believed that US incentives, including financial and political support, may be offered to the East African governments for accepting displaced Palestinians. An official confirmed ongoing discreet conversations with Somaliland, which might involve US recognition of the region in exchange for cooperation.

The rationale behind Somalia’s potential participation remains uncertain, particularly given its historical support for Palestinian self-determination. Additionally, anonymous Sudanese officials indicated that the Trump administration had previously approached Sudan’s military government with offers of military aid and assistance regarding internal issues, although these proposals were swiftly rejected and not revisited afterward.

In summary, recent reports reveal that the US and Israel are exploring the forced displacement of Palestinians from Gaza to East African nations, particularly Sudan, Somalia, and Somaliland. While Sudan has rejected these overtures, the discussions have raised significant concerns about their implications. Expert opinions highlight the moral and historical ramifications of such proposals, denoting the necessity for international accountability against these initiatives. The situation continues to evolve as dialogues progress among involved parties.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com