Somaliland extends olive branch to Gaza amidst relocation row
Somaliland is considering accepting residents of the Gaza Strip, according to the "Jerusalem Post" portal, citing a statement from the foreign minister of this separatist region of Somalia.
What should you know?
- Somaliland is considering accepting residents of the Gaza Strip: Minister Abdirahman Dahir Adan emphasised that the region is open to discussions but requires the establishment of diplomatic relations.
- Plan to relocate Palestinians: The US and Israeli proposal involves relocating over 2 million Palestinians, which has met with international opposition.
- Political context: Somaliland, despite the lack of international recognition, seeks to demonstrate its independence and stability.
What are the conditions for acceptance?
Minister Abdirahman Dahir Adan, in a conversation with the Israeli station KAN, noted that Somaliland is ready for talks on various topics but emphasised the necessity of establishing diplomatic relations.
- All countries that are interested in discussing certain issues with us must first establish working relations with us and open diplomatic missions in Somaliland - said the minister.
What does the relocation plan entail?
The relocation plan, announced by US President Donald Trump, involves moving over 2 million Palestinians from the Gaza Strip.
The US and Israel proposed this plan to three African countries, including Somaliland. However, Sudan refused, and both Somali and Somaliland officials stated they are not aware of any contacts on the matter.
What are the international reactions?
The relocation proposal has met with unequivocal opposition from European and Arab states, as well as the Palestinians themselves. There are also doubts about the situation in the regions that would host refugees, such as the civil war in Sudan or Al-Shabaab's activity in Somalia.
Somaliland, despite the lack of international recognition, strives to show itself as a stable and democratic region. Minister Adan emphasized that their top priority is to demonstrate to the world that they are a peaceful and democratic nation, independent for 33 years, and striving for international recognition.
