South Sudan's foreign ministry has denied engaging in negotiations with Israel over relocating Gaza's Palestinian population, contradicting earlier Israeli television reports about such discussions.

The foreign affairs ministry dismissed suggestions of any official talks, stating the claims "are baseless and do not reflect the official position or policy of the Government of the Republic of South Sudan."

Multiple sources had told the Associated Press on August 12 that Israeli officials were pursuing conversations with Juba about transferring Palestinians from Gaza to the East African state.

Previous reports suggested Netanyahu was advancing what he described as Trump's concept of "voluntary migration" to address Gaza's humanitarian situation.

The US president has maintained his position that Gaza's residents should relocate elsewhere.

Media reports had suggested Israeli representatives planned to visit South Sudan to discuss creating temporary accommodation for Palestinians, with Israel potentially financing such infrastructure. These proposals sparked significant humanitarian concerns, given South Sudan's existing difficulties.

The East African nation faces substantial internal challenges, hosting approximately 11mn people whilst depending heavily on international assistance. Political instability continues despite peace agreements from seven years ago, with President Salva Kiir's administration recently ordering Vice President Riek Machar's arrest in March, creating ongoing governmental tensions.

Cairo has expressed strong opposition to any Palestinian relocation from Gaza, concerned about potential refugee movements across its borders. Egyptian officials have reportedly urged South Sudan to reject Palestinian resettlement proposals.

International critics have condemned similar African resettlement schemes as violations of international legal standards, with Palestinians, advocacy groups, and global leaders describing such proposals as forced displacement measures.

Official records show South Sudan's Foreign Minister Monday Semaya Kumba visited Israel last month, meeting with Netanyahu according to Juba's foreign ministry statements.

The government also recently confirmed custody of eight individuals deported by the Trump administration following unsuccessful legal challenges.

The denials come as the Israeli Defence Forces confirmed that the military chiefs have given the green light to the central framework for a military takeover of the Gaza Strip, on August 13.