A US deal to send up to 75 deportees to the small Pacific island of Palau faces a roadblock after the island’s senate voted to block it. The arrangement, signed in December by President Surangel Whipps Jr, allows these third-country migrants facing removal from the US to live and work in Palau. Along with relocation, Palau is set to receive $2 million for security and $7.5 million linked to resettlement. However, in January Palau’s senate suggested holding a public referendum. This non-binding vote would ask citizens if they agree to accept non-Palauan deportees. Lawmakers said the referendum would guide the government’s final decision. President Whipps Jr stated in a letter to the Guardian: “The deal with the US will offer a lawful, humane solution that respects our people, our laws, and our limited capacity as a small island nation.” Still, strong opposition comes from Palau’s Council of Chiefs, who represent the 16 tribal chiefs. They argued the deal was rushed and warned it could harm Palau’s social cohesion and culture. The chiefs said in a letter, “We were taken by surprise when a signed MOU ... was brought to our attention very recently.” Palau’s senators pointed out that the country is not part of the 1951 UN Refugee Convention and called Palau unsuitable for resettlement due to its size, infrastructure, and resources. President Whipps said each person would be reviewed individually. Priority will be given to migrants with skills that meet Palau’s workforce needs. Senator Rukebai Inabo, one of only three supporters in the senate, called the deal “mutually beneficial” and said Palau is peaceful and affordable for the deportees. The Trump administration’s push to transfer deportees to third countries, including Palau, South Sudan, and Eswatini, has drawn criticism from lawyers and human rights activists worldwide.