Israel's Deputy Foreign Minister, Haskel, pays a visit to South Sudan; no specifics disclosed regarding resettlement initiatives.
Israel and South Sudan Explore Possible Resettlement of Gaza Residents
Israel and South Sudan are reportedly in discussions about the potential resettlement of Palestinians from the Gaza Strip, according to various sources. The talks, which have not been publicly confirmed by South Sudan, are still in the exploratory phase, and no formal deal or implementation details have emerged.
The idea of resettling Gaza residents was initially proposed by former U.S. President Donald Trump as part of a broader plan for Gaza's redevelopment. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed support for the idea, framing it as a voluntary migration that could be the "right thing to do." However, South Sudan has not made any official public comment on the matter.
During a visit to South Sudan, Israeli Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel met with Foreign Minister Semaya Kumba to discuss strengthening cooperation in several areas. The meeting, which took place on Wednesday, was described as an "expression of friendship and solidarity between the two nations." Haskel also announced a humanitarian aid package of food and medical supplies.
The residents of South Sudan's capital, Juba, have expressed mixed reactions about the prospect of such a resettlement. While some have expressed a willingness to welcome Palestinians, others have raised concerns about the need for a large deployment of troops at the borders and the potential resettlement of "criminals."
It is worth noting that other regional African countries have mostly declined involvement in the resettlement plan. The political, humanitarian, and logistical questions surrounding the resettlement remain unresolved, indicating that the plan is still in very preliminary stages.
[1] ABC News: "Israel and South Sudan in talks over possible resettlement of Gaza residents" [2] Reuters: "South Sudan denies reports of negotiating resettlement of Palestinians from Gaza Strip" [3] Al Jazeera: "South Sudan denies reports of plan to resettle Palestinians from Gaza Strip" [4] The Jerusalem Post: "Israel offers South Sudan opportunities in oil and gas, mining, and agriculture to attract foreign investors"
Read also:
- Discussion between Putin and Trump in Alaska could potentially overshadow Ukraine's concerns
- Massive 8.8 earthquake hits off the coast of Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula, prompting Japan to issue a tsunami alert.
- Court petitions to reverse established decision on same-sex marriage legalization
- Independence supporters in New Caledonia refuse agreement offering authority without a vote on sovereignty