US and Israel Explore East African Options for Palestinian Resettlement

The US and Israel seek to resettle Palestinians in East Africa, initiating discussions with Sudan, Somalia, and Somaliland. Despite strong opposition from affected populations and Arab nations, the White House continues to support Trump’s controversial plan. Details of negotiations remain unclear, while Israel plans to prepare for the relocation of Palestinians.

The United States and Israel have initiated discussions with officials from three East African nations—Sudan, Somalia, and the breakaway region of Somaliland. This effort aims to explore potential locations for resettling Palestinians displaced from the Gaza Strip under President Donald Trump’s proposed postwar plan. Despite these discussions, Sudan has reportedly declined the overtures, while Somalia and Somaliland officials have expressed unawareness of any such contact.

Trump’s proposal envisages relocating Gaza’s over two million residents permanently. The plan also entails the United States assuming ownership over the territory, overseeing a cleanup operation, and transforming it into a real estate venture. The concept of mass transferring Palestinians, once considered extreme, has gained traction since Trump showcased it during a recent White House meeting, receiving praise from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a “bold vision.”

Palestinians in Gaza firmly oppose this proposition, contending that the departures cannot be deemed voluntary. Arab nations have vehemently criticized the plan, advocating for an alternative reconstruction strategy that maintains the Palestinian presence. Rights organizations have cautioned that coercing Palestinians to vacate might constitute a potential war crime. Nonetheless, the White House maintains that Trump remains committed to his vision.

Officials from the United States and Israel have confirmed secret diplomatic initiatives with Somalia and Somaliland, as well as contact with Sudan. However, the level and effectiveness of these negotiations remain ambiguous. Discussions commenced shortly after the announcement of the Gaza plan, with Israel reportedly taking the lead in these engagements.

The United States and Israel possess various incentives—financial, diplomatic, and security—to propose to these potential host countries. This formula mirrors the approach adopted five years prior during the negotiation of the Abraham Accords—mutually beneficial agreements between Israel and four Arab nations. The White House has refrained from commenting on these diplomatic outreach efforts.

Recently, Israeli Minister of Finance Bezalel Smotrich declared that the Israeli government is actively identifying countries willing to accept relocating Palestinians. He also indicated that Israel is establishing a significant emigration department within its Ministry of Defense to facilitate these efforts.

The United States and Israel’s initiative to resettle Palestinians in East Africa has faced substantial opposition. With contacts reportedly having been made with Sudan, Somalia, and Somaliland, the proposal raises legal and moral concerns about the potential forced displacement of Gaza’s population. Despite national and international objections, the White House continues to endorse Trump’s resettlement vision, aiming to provide incentives for cooperation from the targeted nations. Ultimately, this controversial plan highlights ongoing tensions and challenges in the region.

Original Source: www.taipeitimes.com