President Trump announced he might reduce aid to Jordan and Egypt if they refuse to accept most Palestinians from Gaza. He reiterated that those displaced would not be permitted to return, prompting concerns over the implications of his plan, which critics have labeled potentially as ethnic cleansing. The move adds pressure on the two nations, which have already rejected such proposals.
On Monday, President Donald Trump stated that he may consider cutting financial aid to Jordan and Egypt if they do not comply with his proposal to permanently resettle the majority of the Palestinian population from Gaza. This statement emphasizes the pressure on these countries to adopt his controversial plan, which aims to relocate the entire Gazan population to facilitate redevelopment efforts by the U.S. administration.
During a briefing in the Oval Office, Mr. Trump asserted that if Jordan and Egypt do not agree to his demands, he could contemplate withholding aid. His comments were made prior to a scheduled meeting with Jordan’s King Abdullah II. Both nations have already expressed strong opposition to any idea of resettling Palestinians within their borders.
President Trump reaffirmed his stance on the forced resettlement of approximately two million Palestinians, a process that critics argue could constitute war crimes and ethnic cleansing. In a subsequent interview with Fox News, he indicated that Palestinians who leave Gaza would not have the right to return after the proposed redevelopment is concluded, stating unequivocally, “No, they wouldn’t.”
When discussing the potential relocation, Mr. Trump expressed optimism that he could broker agreements with both Jordan and Egypt to facilitate this relocation. His remarks reflect a significant shift in policy regarding Palestinian displacement, with potential implications for U.S.-Middle Eastern relations.
In summary, President Trump’s recent statements have intensified the pressure on Jordan and Egypt to accept a large influx of Gazan Palestinians as part of his redevelopment plan. His remarks indicate a willingness to use financial aid as leverage to ensure compliance, while critics raise ethical concerns regarding the proposed resettlement, suggesting it may equate to ethnic cleansing. These developments mark a critical juncture in U.S. policy towards the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and regional diplomacy.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com
