Media: Controversial US-Israel plan considers relocating Gazans to third countries

The Trump administration, in collaboration with Israel, has reportedly explored the possibility of resettling Palestinians from Gaza to other countries, with Sudan, Somalia, and even Syria under consideration.

This initiative is part of a broader strategy by the US to address the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas and the reconstruction of Gaza, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

Despite the controversial nature of this plan, President Trump has emphasized that it does not involve the "expulsion" of Palestinians. During a meeting with Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin, President Trump stated, “Nobody is expelling any Palestinians,” in response to concerns raised about his previous remarks in February regarding the potential ownership of Gaza.

In early February, President Trump suggested that Gaza could become "the Riviera of the Middle East" and proposed moving Palestinians to other nations with "humanitarian hearts" to rebuild the region. His administration, alongside Israeli officials, has reportedly communicated with Sudan and Somalia about the possibility of resettling Palestinians. Additionally, some sources claim that Syria has been approached, although the Syrian government has denied any outreach on this matter.

Somali Ambassador to the US Dahir Hassan clarified that neither the US administration nor Israeli officials have contacted Somalia regarding Palestinian resettlement. He also raised concerns that such unverified information could fuel extremist recruitment propaganda.

The Trump administration’s discussions around this plan have generated backlash from multiple Arab governments, the United Nations, and some Democratic lawmakers, many of whom have criticized the idea as a form of ethnic cleansing. Despite this, Israel’s far-right ministers continue to call for the relocation of Palestinians from Gaza and the West Bank as part of their broader security and territorial claims.

In addition to these talks, US officials are exploring alternatives to improve life for Gaza's residents, with US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff emphasizing the exploration of all options for a better future for Gazans.

By Vafa Guliyeva