US and Israeli officials want to Resettle Palestinians in Sudan and Somalia

People gather to collect water in Khartoum, Sudan

Reports indicate that American and Israeli officials are exploring options to relocate Palestinians to Sudan and Somalia, two of the most impoverished and conflict-ridden regions in Africa. The discussions are part of a broader plan to evacuate approximately 2 million Palestinians from the Gaza Strip while redeveloping the area into prime beachfront real estate. The possibility of Palestinian return remains uncertain, subject to shifting policy positions.

The forced removal of Palestinians from Gaza, reportedly under consideration by members of Benjamin Netanyahu's government, would constitute a war crime under international law. Sudanese officials have reportedly rejected the proposal, while authorities in Somalia and Somaliland, also mentioned in discussions, have stated they are unaware of any formal negotiations on the matter.

The family of Fatima Al-Absi share Iftar, the fast-breaking meal, on the first day of Ramadan in their damaged apartment in Jabaliya, northern Gaza Strip, on Saturday, March 1, 2025. (AP Photo/Jehad Alshrafi)

The proposal has raised significant concerns due to the dire conditions in the proposed relocation sites. Sudan is currently experiencing a devastating civil war and famine, with over 150,000 deaths and 11 million displaced over the past two years. The scale of violence and human suffering in Sudan rivals that of Gaza. Meanwhile, Somalia is facing a severe food crisis and ongoing conflict, exacerbated by an insurgency led by al-Shabaab. The United States has been actively engaged in military operations in Somalia for nearly two decades, with an increase in airstrikes since the Trump administration took office on January 20.

The feasibility and humanitarian implications of the relocation plan remain in question, as global criticism mounts over the ethical and legal ramifications of such a move.