During a White House meeting on Tuesday, President Donald Trump presented his controversial plan for Gaza, advocating for the territory to be evacuated and transformed into a tourist destination under US control. He suggested that this initiative could only succeed if Jordan and other Arab nations, including Egypt, consent to accept a larger influx of Gaza refugees. Trump indicated that he would not withhold US aid from these countries if they failed to comply, a statement at odds with previous suggestions of potential funding cuts as coercive measures.
Jordan’s King Abdullah II, while acknowledging Trump’s ambitious vision for regional stability, refrained from endorsing the proposal of relocating Palestinians, reiterating his country’s firm stance against it. Trump elaborated on his vision, stating that Gaza could feature hotels, office buildings, and homes, insisting he would not personally engage in physical development there. He also pressured Hamas regarding hostages, hinting that a ceasefire could be jeopardised if demands are unmet.
Despite discussions on revitalising Gaza, concerns persist in Jordan and Egypt about the implications of accepting more refugees amid ongoing conflicts. Trump’s remarks reflected heightened tensions, both in terms of diplomatic negotiations and on-the-ground realities in the region, showcasing the complexities of addressing the humanitarian crisis while pursuing political objectives.