Israel in talks with Libya, others on taking Gazans

Israel is in discussions with Libya, Indonesia, Somaliland, Uganda and South Sudan about accepting Palestinians from Gaza, reports The Times of Israel, citing Channel 12. A diplomatic source said Indonesia and Somaliland were particularly open to voluntary resettlement, though no agreements have been reached.

The talks come amid Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s push to encourage Gazans to leave during the ongoing war with Hamas—a policy critics say amounts to forcible expulsion. Palestinians and rights groups reject the plan as violating international law. Egypt opposes any transfer, fearing an influx of refugees.

South Sudan, which met its first official Israeli delegation this week, dismissed reports of a resettlement deal as “baseless.” Somaliland, a self-declared republic seeking international recognition, is reportedly exploring the idea.

Israel has previously broached similar proposals with other African states. Gaza remains gripped by war and hunger, with many residents unwilling to leave permanently for unstable destinations such as South Sudan.