The Trump administration and Israel are exploring the possibility of resettling Gazans in Syria, alongside other potential host countries such as Sudan and Somalia, according to a report made today (Monday) by CBS. Three sources familiar with the discussions indicated that an approach was made to Syria’s new government, though it remains unclear if an official response has been received.
Syria Denies Talks: “No Official Request Received”
Sources knowledgeable about the Trump administration’s Middle East policy say that messages were conveyed to Syria’s new government via a third party, but no formal response has been issued. A senior Syrian official told CBS: “We are unaware of any official request from the U.S. or Israel regarding the relocation of Palestinians to our country.”
Syria’s Uncertain Future Amidst Post-Assad Reconstruction
Syria, currently undergoing a recovery phase following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s brutal regime, faces complex internal challenges. It remains uncertain whether the new government would be interested in hosting a Palestinian population from Gaza or if this is an independent initiative by the Trump administration.
Sudan and Somalia Also Considered
In addition to reaching out to Syria, discussions have reportedly taken place with Sudanese and Somali officials about the possibility of resettling Palestinians from Gaza within their borders.
Somalia’s Ambassador to the U.S., Dahir Hassan, denied any formal communication on the matter and expressed concerns that such reports could be exploited for propaganda by terrorist organizations like ISIS and Al-Shabaab, potentially destabilizing the region.
Trump: “We Will Build Safe Communities for Palestinians Outside Gaza”
Since the idea was first floated in February, President Trump has stated that Gazans would have the option to leave or stay but emphasized that their departure might be permanent. In an interview with Fox News, he explained that under the plan, “We will build beautiful, safe communities—perhaps five or six, maybe just two,” while stressing that Gaza itself “will not be livable for many years to come.”
