President Trump has warned Jordan and Egypt of potential aid cuts if they refuse to accept Palestinian refugees from Gaza. Both countries have rejected this idea, fearing geopolitical and national identity ramifications. As tensions in the region escalate, especially regarding Gaza’s ceasefire and the hostage situation with Hamas, Jordan’s King Abdullah is set to meet with Trump amid these deliberations.
United States President Donald Trump has issued a warning to Jordan and Egypt, threatening to cut off aid if they refuse to accept displaced Palestinians from Gaza. This demand aims to facilitate a U.S.-led redevelopment of Gaza, which Trump envisions transforming into the ‘Riviera of the Middle East.’ Despite this pressure, both Jordan and Egypt have staunchly opposed the relocation of Palestinians, fearing it would solidify Israel’s plans to permanently expel them.
In a press conference, President Trump indicated, ‘If they don’t agree, I would conceivably withhold aid.’ His demand comes ahead of a meeting with Jordan’s King Abdullah, who has vocally opposed any initiatives that would lead to the displacement of Palestinians. The king is likely to communicate to Trump that such plans could exacerbate regional instability.
Both Jordan and Egypt are cautious about accepting refugees due to the historical context, as seen in Jordan where nearly 50% of its population claims Palestinian roots. King Abdullah reiterated, ‘No refugees in Jordan, no refugees in Egypt,’ highlighting a long-standing fear that this conflict could serve as a mechanism for population displacement orchestrated by Israel.
Additionally, President Trump expressed optimism that King Abdullah would acquiesce to accepting refugees because ‘they have good hearts.’ However, Jordan is dependent on significant annual U.S. funding, which might be jeopardized by its refusal to comply with Trump’s demands. In 2023, Jordan received $1.6 billion from the U.S., while Egypt received $1.5 billion.
Trump dismissed the notion that displaced Gazans would retain a ‘right to return,’ stating, ‘They’re going to have much better housing.’ He believes deals could be forged with Jordan and Egypt to facilitate this housing arrangement. Prime Minister Netanyahu of Israel has endorsed Trump’s proposal as ‘revolutionary.’
As tensions escalate, displaced Gazans have begun returning home following an Israeli military withdrawal, though the ceasefire agreement appears precarious after Hamas halted the release of hostages and accused Israel of violating the terms. Sami Abu Zuhri, a Hamas leader, stated, ‘Trump must remember that there is an agreement that must be respected by both parties.’
The Israeli Defense Minister criticized Hamas’s actions as a severe breach of the ceasefire, prompting military readiness from Israel. While in Washington, King Abdullah is also scheduled to meet with several U.S. officials, marking a significant moment in international relations since Trump took office.
In conclusion, President Trump is exerting pressure on Jordan and Egypt to accept Palestinian refugees from Gaza, threatening economic aid cuts as leverage. This move aims to facilitate a U.S.-led project for Gaza’s redevelopment. Both nations are firmly against the idea due to fears of long-term displacement of Palestinians, while regional stability remains a significant concern amid ongoing tensions.
Original Source: www.telegraph.co.uk
