Iran’s influence around Israel may grow as Trump’s plan to resettle Gazans in Jordan faces resistance, risking destabilization in the region. Experts warn that militants could infiltrate among refugees, stressing Jordan’s economy and security, while the Palestinian Authority views this as ethnic cleansing. Jordan’s King Abdullah emphasizes the need to protect Palestinian rights amid these challenges.
Recent geopolitical tensions have raised concerns that Iran may strengthen its influence around Israel amid potential Palestinian displacements. Donald Trump has proposed resettling hundreds of thousands of Gazans in Jordan and Egypt, a move that experts warn could destabilize Jordan, making it easier for Iranian militants to infiltrate the nation. Trump believes that these countries will support this initiative, framing it as a win for the safety of Palestinians.
While this proposal could theoretically provide a temporary refuge for Gazans, it has already been met with resistance from both Jordan and Egypt. The Palestinian Authority has denounced Trump’s plan as a form of ethnic cleansing. Jordan’s King Abdullah II has reiterated the importance of maintaining Palestinian rights and sovereignty. He perceives a large influx of refugees as a potential security threat due to the possibility that jihadists may also enter the country disguised among them.
Experts, such as Megan Sutcliffe from the Sibylline strategic risk group, suggest that an increase in Palestinian refugees could unintentionally bolster Iran’s efforts to encircle Israel with militant support. The potential establishment of networks in Jordan that are sympathetic to Hamas could pose significant challenges not only to Jordan but also to Israeli security. This situation could exacerbate tensions in an already volatile region.
Furthermore, Jordan’s economy could strain under the weight of an increased refugee population, exacerbating existing pressures against its pro-Western government. The country currently hosts approximately 2.3 million Palestinians from the 1948 conflict and a substantial number of Syrian refugees. The influx of additional Palestinians could lead to social unrest, as economic dissatisfaction rises among its citizens at a time when national resources are already stretched thin.
The ongoing crisis in Gaza and the broader regional tensions involving Iran, Israel, and Palestinian groups have significant implications for Middle Eastern geopolitics. As the situation in Gaza deteriorates, discussions regarding the potential resettlement of Palestinian refugees have gained traction. Proposals to move these individuals, particularly to Jordan and Egypt, come with fears of destabilization and the risk of militant infiltration, raising concerns about rising Iranian influence in the area.
The proposed relocation of Gazans to Jordan and Egypt presents considerable risks, including the destabilization of Jordan and potential Iranian expansionism. As regional tensions escalate, this initiative may strain Jordan’s economy and social fabric, jeopardizing its stability and relationship with Israel. Policymakers must carefully weigh the long-term consequences of displacement against the immediate humanitarian needs of the Palestinian population.
Original Source: www.express.co.uk
