South Sudan hosted Israeli Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel on Wednesday in a landmark diplomatic visit, the first by a representative from Israel since the country gained independence in 2011.
During her stay, Haskel met with President Salva Kiir Mayardit, Deputy Foreign Minister Semaiah Kumba, the Speaker of Parliament, and senior officials in the South Sudanese government.
The visit comes amid regional humanitarian and security concerns, with media reports suggesting discussions over the potential resettlement of Palestinians displaced from the Gaza Strip in South Sudan.
The Jerusalem Post reported on Tuesday that an official Israeli delegation was considering visits to South Sudan to explore setting up camps for Gaza evacuees. Similarly, the Associated Press cited six sources claiming that Israeli officials were in talks with Juba over the possible transfer of Palestinians.
However, the South Sudanese government moved quickly to reject these reports, issuing a statement describing them as “baseless” and insisting that no discussions had taken place regarding the relocation of Palestinians from Gaza.
Haskel’s visit, while historic, focused on strengthening bilateral ties, expanding trade, and exploring cooperation in areas such as security, agriculture, and technology. South Sudanese officials emphasised that the talks were primarily aimed at deepening diplomatic and economic engagement, rather than addressing contentious migration issues.
“This visit represents an unprecedented step in our diplomatic relations with Israel,” a South Sudanese official said. “We welcome cooperation and dialogue on matters of mutual interest while clarifying our position on misinformation circulating in international media.”
Analysts note that the timing of the visit has drawn heightened attention due to ongoing crises in Gaza, with speculation in some outlets linking the diplomatic engagement to humanitarian solutions. South Sudan, however, appears keen to assert its sovereignty and clarify that no agreements or negotiations have taken place concerning the relocation of displaced Palestinians.
Haskel’s itinerary included high-level meetings in Juba and discussions on potential collaboration in trade, infrastructure, and capacity-building initiatives. Observers suggest that the visit could signal a cautious but growing Israeli interest in strengthening ties with African nations while navigating sensitive geopolitical issues.
The South Sudanese government reaffirmed its commitment to regional stability and humanitarian cooperation, reiterating that any reports suggesting otherwise are without foundation.
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