South Sudan Denies Talks with Israel Over Palestinian Resettlement

TDT | Manama

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South Sudan has denied reports claiming it held discussions with Israel regarding the possible resettlement of Palestinians from Gaza within its borders. The East African nation’s foreign ministry called the allegations “baseless” and emphasized they do not reflect official policy.

The claims first emerged in a report by the Associated Press, which cited six sources familiar with the matter. According to the report, Israel had explored the idea of forcibly relocating Gaza residents to South Sudan, a proposal that has sparked international concern.

Human rights organizations have warned that such transfers would violate international law, potentially amounting to ethnic cleansing. Critics also fear that a mass departure of Palestinians could prevent them from ever returning to Gaza, while paving the way for Israel to annex the territory and re-establish settlements.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has previously referred to “voluntary migration” of Gaza residents, framing it as a measure aligned with the laws of war. However, he did not specifically mention South Sudan in recent statements.

The AP also noted that similar proposals have been discussed with Sudan, Somalia, and the breakaway region of Somaliland. Egypt, which borders Gaza, has strongly opposed any forced transfer, citing fears of a refugee influx.

South Sudan, which continues to recover from a devastating civil war that erupted shortly after its 2011 independence, already hosts a significant refugee population from neighboring countries. Civil society leaders in the country have stressed that South Sudan should not become a “dumping ground” or bargaining chip in international negotiations.

Experts point out that the Trump administration previously pressured multiple nations to accept deportations, and South Sudan has already received eight individuals removed from the U.S. under previous policies. Observers say the cash-strapped country seeks diplomatic support, financial aid, and sanctions relief for its elites.

The South Sudanese government’s firm denial makes it clear that it has no plans to participate in the controversial proposal, underscoring the sensitivity of forced population transfers in the region.