Jordan has begun evacuating sick children from Gaza amid fears of mass displacement of Palestinians due to a plan advocated by U.S. President Donald Trump. The initiative reflects Jordan’s commitment to humanitarian assistance and diplomatic efforts to counter potential destabilization in the region. Jordanian authorities worry that such displacement could change demographic balances within their country and undermine peace initiatives.
This week, Jordan facilitated the arrival of its first convoy transporting sick and injured children from Gaza to receive medical treatment. Among the children is 10-year-old Bilal, who suffered severe injuries from shrapnel and has endured significant loss of vision for over nine months. His father, Mohamed Adnan al Hamwassi, expressed hope for surgery to restore Bilal’s sight. The initiative represents Jordan’s commitment to humanitarian assistance and is part of a larger strategy to prevent the mass displacement of Palestinians proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump.
The medical convoy, which included 30 children and 44 caregivers, reached Jordan in collaboration with the World Health Organization. This operation coincided with an Arab leaders’ meeting in Egypt, which aimed to devise an alternative to Trump’s plan to evacuate Gaza’s population, transforming the region into a “Middle East Riviera.” UNICEF highlights the immense suffering, stating that approximately 25,000 children have been injured during the prolonged conflict, with substantial barriers to medical care due to the devastation of Gaza’s health infrastructure.
Jordan aims to mitigate the humanitarian crisis while simultaneously alleviating U.S. pressure regarding the Palestinian population. The nation has been proactive in providing aid since the escalation of conflict in October 2023 following Hamas’s actions. As stated by Hassan Al Momani, director of the Center for Strategic Studies, “Jordan’s humanitarian role has probably managed to diffuse American tension and pressure.”
Under King Abdullah II’s directive, Jordan has pledged to accept 2,000 children for treatment, a step which Trump acknowledged as “a beautiful gesture” in their discussions. Additionally, the King backed an Egyptian initiative to promote a $53 billion plan to rebuild Gaza by 2030 and establish a transitional government.
Amid ongoing discussions, questions arise surrounding Trump’s proposed plan to relocate millions of Palestinians, which Jordanian officials contend would pose significant threats to their national stability. Jordan remains particularly vigilant as over half of its population is of Palestinian descent, which underscores the potential for domestic unrest.
Officials, including former Foreign Minister Marwan Muasher, emphasize the need for a diplomatic approach, explaining to the U.S. administration the inherent risks associated with mass transfers of the Palestinian populace. Jordan’s strategy aims to leverage its alliances within the U.S. to dissuade such actions without direct confrontation.
While it remains uncertain whether Jordan’s diplomatic efforts in concert with other Arab nations will successfully counter Trump’s Gaza strategy, analysts suggest that strengthening ties with regional powers like Saudi Arabia may be crucial. Experts warn that Jordan must remain focused not just on Gaza, but on the implications for the West Bank as well, especially given Israel’s intensified military activities that have displaced numerous Palestinians.
In summary, Jordan is actively engaged in humanitarian efforts to aid children from Gaza while simultaneously navigating the complex geopolitical landscape surrounding U.S. policies on Palestinian displacement. Through collaborative medical relief and international diplomacy, Jordan aims to protect its demographic balance and prevent destabilization of its internal affairs. The outcome of these efforts remains to be seen, particularly in relation to future U.S. approaches towards Palestinian populations in both Gaza and the West Bank.
Original Source: www.politico.eu
