Trump Administration Weighs Plan to Resettle Gazans in Somalia

The Trump administration is reportedly exploring the possibility of relocating Gazan refugees to three regions in Africa Morocco, Puntland, and Somaliland following former U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement that the U.S. plans to take over the Gaza Strip and rebuild it. The report, published by N12, suggests that these locations were chosen due to their geopolitical ties with Washington and their need for American support.

Somaliland and Puntland, two self-governing regions in Somalia, have long sought international recognition. Somaliland, in particular, has operated as a de facto independent state for over 30 years, despite lacking formal recognition. The Trump administration previously considered recognizing Somaliland, a move that could have significant implications in exchange for accepting Gazan refugees.

Morocco, another potential relocation site, has an ongoing territorial dispute over Western Sahara and has been a strategic U.S. ally in North Africa. The potential for U.S. diplomatic recognition or economic incentives could factor into any resettlement negotiations.

While Puntland and Somaliland together have a population of approximately 10 million, the feasibility of absorbing a large influx of Gazans remains uncertain. However, the idea of leveraging U.S. recognition in exchange for resettlement presents an unconventional approach to the crisis.

The prospect of resettling Gazans outside the Middle East has already generated political reactions, particularly among U.S. lawmakers critical of Trump's foreign policy. As discussions continue, the international response to this proposal will likely shape its viability.

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