President Trump has threatened to withhold aid from Jordan and Egypt if they reject his Gaza development plan, which involves relocating millions of Palestinians. King Abdullah of Jordan expresses strong opposition to this plan during his upcoming meeting with Trump. Analysts have mixed responses, indicating significant challenges ahead for the U.S. strategy in the region.
President Donald Trump has threatened to withhold U.S. aid to Jordan and Egypt if they refuse to accept his controversial Gaza development plan. This comes ahead of a scheduled meeting with Jordan’s King Abdullah, the first Arab leader to visit the White House since Trump resumed his presidency. Trump’s proposal involves relocating nearly two million Palestinians from Gaza to both Jordan and Egypt, a plan that has drawn significant backlash from Middle Eastern leaders.
King Abdullah has expressed strong opposition to any attempts that would support settlement expansions or displacement of Palestinians. His court emphasized the importance of halting Israeli settlements and protecting Palestinian rights. The Jordanian leader has engaged in discussions with the U.N. and other nations supportive of Palestinian statehood in anticipation of his meeting with Trump.
During a recent Fox News interview, President Trump reiterated that Palestinians relocated from Gaza would not have the right to return, claiming they would receive better housing in a revitalized Gaza. He indicated he would pressure Jordan and Egypt to accept the influx of refugees, stating, “If they don’t agree, I would conceivably withhold aid.”
Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to visit several Middle Eastern nations and is also expected to meet with Egypt’s foreign minister. However, his alignment with Trump’s views regarding Gaza remains uncertain. Rubio was notably vague when asked about the potential for Palestinians to return to Gaza after reconstruction, prompting speculation about the administration’s overall strategy.
Analysts have varied views on Trump’s Gaza strategy, with some viewing it as a negotiating tactic that may damage U.S. credibility in the region. Ahmed Aboudouh of Chatham House believes it has failed as a bargaining maneuver, stating it has negatively impacted the fragile peace process. Conversely, Thomas S. Warrick acknowledges some merits to Trump’s engagement but insists his approach needs refinement, particularly concerning Jordan’s refusal to accept more Palestinian refugees.
In summary, President Trump is asserting pressure on Jordan and Egypt regarding his Gaza plan, threatening to cut off aid if they do not comply. King Abdullah’s visit will likely highlight these tensions, and analysis indicates that while Trump’s strategy has raised discussions, its acceptance remains doubtful. The future of U.S. engagement in Gaza depends on how the administration navigates the complex reactions of Middle Eastern leaders.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
