Trump Holds Firm on Gaza Plan Despite Jordanian Opposition

Arab Leaders Express Concern Over Proposed Palestinian Relocation

WORLD – U.S. President Donald Trump reaffirmed his controversial plan to relocate Palestinians from Gaza and redevelop the area into a high-end residential hub despite clear opposition from Arab leaders. During a recent meeting at the White House, Jordan’s King Abdullah II expressed regional concerns over the proposed displacement of Palestinians, yet Trump remained unwavering in his stance.

Trump reiterated his belief that Palestinians should be resettled in third-party nations, including Jordan, regardless of resistance from regional governments. He dismissed concerns about U.S. authority over Gaza, emphasizing that American control would bring stability to the Middle East for the first time. “It’s not complicated. If the United States controls that land, stability will follow,” he stated.

Seated beside Trump, King Abdullah chose his words carefully, acknowledging alternative proposals from Egypt and other Arab states. “We have a plan in place, and it’s important to ensure a solution that benefits all parties,” Abdullah remarked. However, following the meeting, he was more direct in his opposition. “Jordan remains steadfast against the displacement of Palestinians from Gaza and the West Bank. This is the unified Arab stance,” he declared via social media.

A Contentious Proposal with Far-Reaching Implications

Trump’s remarks signaled his determination to push forward with the plan he unveiled a week prior. “We will take control of it, ensure peace, and prevent further disputes,” he asserted. His vision for Gaza, which involves transforming the war-torn region into a modern coastal destination, has added tension to an already fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.

As negotiations continue, Trump set a Saturday deadline for Hamas to release all hostages from Gaza, warning that failure to comply would have severe consequences. “If they don’t meet the deadline, all bets are off,” he cautioned.

Despite skepticism from Jordan and Egypt, Trump appears confident in leveraging U.S. financial aid to secure cooperation. When asked whether he would withhold American assistance to these nations, he responded, “Possibly, yes.” However, he later suggested a willingness to find common ground without resorting to financial threats.

Uncertainty Looms Over Arab-U.S. Relations

Jordan and Egypt, both longstanding U.S. allies, have played crucial roles in maintaining regional stability and protecting Israel’s interests. Some U.S. officials worry that forcing these nations to accept displaced Palestinians could jeopardize their delicate political balance. While Trump remains adamant that Arab leaders will ultimately yield to his vision, skepticism persists.

King Abdullah and Egyptian officials are now determining whether Trump’s proposal is a genuine policy shift or merely a provocative opening move in broader negotiations. Meanwhile, Trump’s insistence that relocated Palestinians would not be allowed to return to Gaza has drawn further criticism. “They will have far better housing elsewhere,” he claimed, underscoring his intention to develop Gaza for global investors rather than its original residents.

Despite outright rejections from Jordan and Egypt, Trump maintains confidence that he will persuade these nations to support his initiative. As the Arab League prepares to discuss the escalating situation later this month, Trump’s proposal remains a focal point of debate, with its potential ramifications still uncertain.

By Stephanie Laurel, 

Senior Reporter, The Haitian Tribune | Published on February 12, 2025 | Photo Credit: CNN/AP