Diplomatic exchanges between Israel and South Sudan indicate progress in sensitive talks over relocating Palestinians from Gaza. South Sudan’s Foreign Minister Monday Semaya Kumba recently visited Israel, meeting senior officials amid reciprocal visits by Israeli diplomats to Juba.
These diplomatic moves suggest that discussions on Palestinian relocation to South Sudan have gained formal momentum, despite official denials from Juba.
The talks emerge as the Gaza conflict nears its second year, leaving neighborhoods flattened and critical infrastructure severely damaged. Israeli forces continue targeting tunnels, weapons depots, and Hamas command hubs hidden within civilian areas, according to military reports.
Humanitarian conditions remain dire, with hundreds of thousands displaced and facing shortages of food, water, and shelter. Polling by analyst Khalil Shikaki shows more than half of Gazans would leave if given the opportunity, particularly those who lost homes.
Dr. Harel Chorev of the Moshe Dayan Center said such sentiments are unsurprising amid widespread destruction and economic collapse. “Most cities are damaged or destroyed, jobs are scarce, and people understandably seek an escape from the obscured future in Gaza,” he explained.
Chorev also noted Hamas’ failure to offer a viable governance vision has amplified civilian frustration and the desire to emigrate. Proposals for relocation, including South Sudan, have circulated for months but now carry increased political weight as a potential bargaining tool.
“These discussions signal to Gazans a possible escape and warn Hamas that time and support are not in its favour,” Chorev added. While South Sudan officially denies accepting Palestinian relocation, these talks underscore a shifting diplomatic landscape with humanitarian and strategic implications.
