Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar has firmly denied that any plan for the resettlement or emigration of Palestinians from Gaza is part of Israel’s recent agreement with Somaliland, amid swirling rumors and allegations following Israel’s historic recognition of the Republic of Somaliland.
In an interview on Channel 14 with host Maggie Tabibi, Sa’ar was directly questioned about reports linking Israel’s diplomatic outreach to Somaliland with a controversial proposal—originally floated a year ago involving former U.S. President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu—for encouraging Gazans to emigrate to other countries, with Somaliland allegedly named as a potential destination.
“I can say that this is not part of our agreement with Somaliland, and that is what I can say on this issue,” Sa’ar stated. When pressed further by the interviewer—”But not migration of Gazans?”—he repeated with a slight smile: “I’m saying that this is not part of the agreement.”
Sa’ar quickly pivoted to emphasize positive aspects of the burgeoning ties, noting: “I think that we have a lot of topics in the field of politics, security, [and] development… and others that we will advance with Somaliland.”
Israel’s denial follows allegations from Somali officials, including President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who claimed in an Al Jazeera interview that Somaliland had accepted Israeli conditions—including the resettlement of displaced Palestinians from Gaza—in exchange for recognition. Both Somaliland and Israel have rejected these claims.
Sa’ar, during his visit, highlighted Somaliland’s strategic importance and described it as a “functioning state,” contrasting it with what he called “virtual” entities.
Israel has stressed that ties with Somaliland focus on political, security, and development cooperation, with plans announced for embassies and deeper relations.