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South Sudan’s government has firmly denied reports of discussions with Israel regarding the possible relocation of Palestinians from Gaza to its territory, following widespread media coverage and public outcry.
The denial follows an Associated Press report that cited unnamed sources claiming that Israel and South Sudan were engaged in talks over forcibly transferring Palestinians as part of Israel’s broader strategy in Gaza. South Sudan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs responded Wednesday (13 August), calling the reports “baseless” and “not (reflecting) the official position or policy.”
The proposal, reportedly part of a larger Israeli plan to facilitate what Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has described as the “voluntary migration” of Palestinians from Gaza, has drawn strong condemnation from human rights organizations. They warn such a move would violate international law and amount to ethnic cleansing.
Critics argue the plan would effectively depopulate Gaza, enabling Israeli annexation. Israel and the United States have allegedly explored similar proposals with Sudan, Somalia, and Somaliland. South Sudan, still grappling with the aftermath of a civil war and hosting over a million refugees, is considered an unlikely and controversial candidate for such a plan.
South Sudanese civil society leader Edmund Yakani urged the government not to allow the country’s territory to be used as “a dumping ground for people” and not to use people as “negotiating chips to improve relations.” While Juba denies involvement, concerns remain that geopolitical pressure and economic incentives may shape future decisions behind closed doors.
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