U.S. and Israel eye East Africa for Palestinian relocation plan

The United States and Israel have reached out to three East African countries to explore the possibility of relocating Palestinians from the Gaza Strip.

According to AP sources, the talks involve Sudan, Somalia, and Somaliland. These regions are facing significant challenges, including the civil war in Sudan and Al-Shabaab terrorism in Somalia. Despite these issues, President Trump has described these locations as "beautiful" for potential resettlers.

Sudan has rejected the United States' proposal, while representatives from Somalia and Somaliland claim they are unaware of such discussions. Trump's plan reportedly involves relocating over 2 million Palestinians, followed by a real estate project on the relocated land.

The U.S. President has denied that the relocations would be forced, but it remains unclear whether Palestinians will be able to return to Gaza after reconstruction.

The relocation proposal was met with unanimous opposition from European countries, Arab nations, and the Palestinians themselves. These countries have suggested alternative plans for rebuilding the Gaza Strip.

Israel and the United States have prepared a package of financial, diplomatic, and security incentives for countries willing to accept Palestinians. This was confirmed by Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who noted that Israeli authorities are actively seeking nations interested in accepting resettlers.

The reconstruction of the Gaza Strip is deemed necessary following the war that erupted in October 2023 after an attack by Palestinian terrorists on Israel. The conflict resulted in the deaths of over 48,000 Palestinians and 400 Israeli soldiers.