Sudan rejected U.S. discussions about resettling Palestinians displaced from Gaza under Trump’s plan to transform the territory. Officials confirmed the U.S. reached out to Sudan, Somalia, and Somaliland, but all nations expressed refusal to consider the proposal, which has faced international legal challenges. This reflects a broader rejection of any forced displacement of Palestinians.
Sudan has explicitly rejected a proposal from the United States to discuss the resettlement of Palestinians displaced from Gaza, as outlined in Donald Trump’s controversial plan aimed at transforming Gaza into a tourist destination. U.S. and Israeli officials had contacted Sudan, as well as Somalia and Somaliland, regarding the resettlement of Palestinians, the details of which were confirmed by officials from war-torn Sudan.
The proposed discussions reportedly began prior to Trump’s inauguration, offering military assistance and support for postwar reconstruction as incentives. Despite such enticements, Sudanese officials firmly declined the proposal, stating, “This suggestion was immediately rebuffed.” Meanwhile, Somalia’s Foreign Minister expressed a similar stance against the use of its territory for resettlement, emphasizing the need to respect the Palestinians’ right to their homeland.
Trump’s plan would see over two million residents of Gaza permanently displaced, an action that international legal experts have deemed illegal. Initial considerations for relocation included Egypt and Jordan, both of which strongly opposed the proposal. Reactions from Palestinians have been predominantly negative, viewing any suggested emigration as coerced rather than voluntary. Arab nations have countered with an alternative reconstruction proposal, keeping the Palestinian population intact.
Information regarding U.S. outreach surfaced following Trump’s announcement of the Gaza plan, indicating that Israel was leading discussions just weeks prior. However, neither Israeli officials nor the White House have commented on the outreach efforts. Notably, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the plan as a “bold vision,” while some advisers indicated ongoing consideration for Palestinian emigration options.
Despite Sudan’s prior agreements to normalize relations with Israel under the Abraham Accords, it is currently mired in internal conflict exacerbated by severe humanitarian issues. Sudan’s military leader, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, reinforced this position, categorically rejecting transfers of Palestinians for any reason.
In terms of Somaliland, a self-declared but unrecognized region, U.S. officials confirmed discussions about potential assistance to the territory in exchange for recognition. However, local officials assert no talks regarding the reception of Palestinians have taken place, while Somalia openly supports the Palestinian cause and has denounced Trump’s plan at international summits.
In conclusion, both Sudan and Somalia have firmly rejected U.S. proposals regarding the resettlement of Palestinians under Trump’s plan. The efforts to displace Palestinian residents of Gaza have met with widespread opposition, including from international legal experts who view such actions as illegal. The clear stance from Sudan and Somalia underscores a strong commitment to Palestinian rights and self-determination amidst ongoing humanitarian challenges in the region.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
