The United States and Israel have reportedly reached out to officials in Sudan, Somalia, and the self-declared independent region of Somaliland to discuss the potential relocation of Palestinians from Gaza. This move, which is part of U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed postwar plan, has drawn widespread condemnation and raised significant ethical and legal concerns.
Under Trump’s vision, Gaza’s over two million residents would be permanently resettled elsewhere, with the U.S. overseeing a cleanup operation and real estate development in the area. While Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has embraced the plan, calling it a “bold vision,” Palestinians and Arab nations have strongly opposed it, arguing that any forced relocation would amount to a war crime.
According to American and Israeli officials speaking anonymously, outreach to Sudan, Somalia, and Somaliland began shortly after Trump floated the proposal in a White House meeting. While Sudanese officials confirmed they had been approached, they stated that their government had firmly rejected the idea. Somalia and Somaliland, on the other hand, have denied any knowledge of discussions regarding the relocation.
Sudan, despite normalizing relations with Israel in 2020 through the Abraham Accords, is currently embroiled in a brutal civil war. The prospect of accepting displaced Palestinians seems highly unlikely, with Sudanese military leader Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan publicly rejecting any such plan.
Somaliland, which has long sought international recognition as an independent state, is seen as a potential candidate due to its strategic location in the Horn of Africa. Reports suggest the U.S. has engaged in quiet talks with Somaliland, potentially offering diplomatic recognition in exchange for cooperation. However, local officials have denied any formal discussions on accepting Palestinian refugees.
Somalia, a steadfast supporter of Palestinian self-determination, is another unlikely destination for relocation. The Somali government recently joined an Arab League summit condemning Trump’s plan.
While the U.S. and Israel may offer financial, diplomatic, and security incentives to these nations, the idea of permanently displacing Palestinians remains deeply controversial. Rights groups warn that any coercion or forced relocation would constitute a serious violation of international law. As opposition mounts, the feasibility of Trump’s plan remains highly uncertain.
