U.S. and Israeli officials have discussed displacing Palestinians from Gaza to East Africa, particularly Sudan, Somalia, and Somaliland. Sudan has reportedly rejected the overtures. The proposal has drawn significant backlash, with experts warning it crosses a moral red line and may exacerbate existing regional instability.
Recent reports reveal that U.S. and Israeli officials have approached the governments of Sudan, Somalia, and Somaliland regarding the potential forced relocation of Palestinians from Gaza to East Africa. According to sources cited by The Associated Press, Sudan has reportedly rejected these overtures, while officials from Somalia and Somaliland stated they were unaware of any discussions.
Officials, speaking anonymously to discuss this confidential diplomatic initiative, confirmed that while Sudan had been contacted, the extent of advancements in negotiations remains unclear. The dialogue was initiated following a controversial statement by former U.S. President Donald Trump advocating for the displacement of Palestinians, which received significant backlash from Palestinian representatives and regional governments.
Previously, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich mentioned efforts to establish a department in the Ministry of Defense aimed at facilitating the migration of Palestinians, which he termed “voluntary” emigration. The controversial nature of these discussions has raised many eyebrows amid ongoing concerns of ethnic cleansing.
Tamer Qarmout, an associate professor at the Doha Institute for Graduate Studies, condemned the forced displacement proposal, urging global leaders to resist engaging with Israel on these matters. He described the suggestion as a “red line” that should not be crossed, especially towards nations that are already experiencing the impacts of colonialism.
Further complicating the situation, it was reported that the U.S. might offer various incentives to the East African nations for accepting the Palestinian refugees, including military, financial, and diplomatic support. Despite these offers, analysts express skepticism regarding Somalia’s willingness to participate in the resettlement of Palestinians due to its traditional support for Palestinian sovereignty.
In summary, discussions between U.S. and Israeli officials regarding the potential displacement of Palestinians from Gaza to countries in East Africa have sparked significant controversy. Efforts to engage Sudan, Somalia, and Somaliland reveal a complex diplomatic initiative that has largely met with rejection and widespread condemnation. Experts warn against the moral implications of forced migration, emphasizing the lasting effects of colonial legacies in the targeted countries. The report underscores the delicate complexity of international negotiations surrounding the Palestinian issue.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
