U.S., Israel Explore Plan to Relocate Hamas Leaders to Tunisia
US and Israel discuss potential plan to relocate Hamas leadership to Tunisia as a de-escalation strategy, drawing parallels to PLO's 1980s exile from Lebanon. Key challenges remain.
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The United States and Israel are reportedly engaged in discreet discussions with key regional players regarding a proposal to relocate senior Hamas leaders from the Gaza Strip to Tunisia. The plan is being considered as a potential "off-ramp" to de-escalate the ongoing conflict.
The proposal is described as a "voluntary" departure for Hamas leadership, a move that draws a historical parallel to the exile of Yasser Arafat and the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) from Lebanon in the 1980s. While Israel has acknowledged the existence of these discussions under strict censorship rules, sources indicate Iran is playing a quiet, indirect role in facilitating contacts with Hamas's top figures.
Tunisia's Reluctance
While Tunisia has a long-standing history of supporting the Palestinian cause, the North African country’s willingness to host Hamas leaders remains a significant obstacle. Both domestic public opinion and much of the political class are reportedly wary of Hamas, particularly its hardline Islamist terrorist elements. Hosting the group's leadership could stir significant controversy at home and risk destabilizing Tunisia’s already fragile political environment.
Lingering Questions and Concerns
Even if the relocation plan were to proceed, major concerns remain about its long-term effectiveness. The proposal does not address how the international community would ensure accountability for the exiled Hamas figures. Questions persist about whether they would be able to continue directing operations from abroad, as happened with the PLO after its departure from Lebanon, and how their influence would be neutralized.