Donald Trump’s proposal for U.S. ownership of Gaza has sparked outrage, as it could displace millions of Palestinians, pressuring Jordan and Egypt to accept them. Leaders Abdullah II and Sisi have condemned the plan while fearing economic and security ramifications. Historical context amplifies concerns about instability and the Palestinian narrative, complicating responses to the proposal amid significant U.S. influence.
The recent proposal by Donald Trump, suggesting that the U.S. assume “ownership” of Gaza and displace over two million Palestinians, has engendered significant international outrage. This plan includes transforming Gaza into a prosperous area, which has prompted alarm among leaders in Jordan and Egypt, who fear the permanent resettlement of Palestinians in their territories. Both King Abdullah II of Jordan and President Abdel Fatah al-Sisi of Egypt have condemned the proposal and are expected to discuss it with Trump in Washington.
The leaders in Amman and Cairo are anxious that the proposed population transfer could materialize, as past experiences of displacement during the establishment of Israel remain vivid in collective memory. Jordan has a historical precedent, having absorbed large numbers of Palestinian refugees in 1948 and 1967, leading to a demographic landscape where a significant portion of its population is of Palestinian descent. Katrina Sammour, an analyst based in Amman, stated, “It would be a repeat trauma of an already traumatised people.”
Furthermore, the issue of Palestinian presence in Jordan is sensitive, directly associated with its political stability. The events of 1970, when Palestinian factions attempted to seize control, still resonate within the nation’s memory. Jordanian officials have long warned that any push to displace Palestinians from the West Bank into Jordan would be perceived as a declaration of war, adding to the rising tensions surrounding this new proposal.
Economic dependency on the U.S. complicates Jordan’s stance, as the country relies heavily on American aid and maintains a peace treaty with Israel. There exists a delicate balance between supporting Palestinian rights and safeguarding national stability. Political experts underscore that the identity of Jordanians is a contentious topic and any forced relocation of Palestinians could destabilize King Abdullah’s monarchy.
The economy in Jordan is already beleaguered by the effects of ongoing conflict, making the prospect of accepting additional refugees particularly daunting. The existing strain on resources could spell disaster for public services and national security. Ms. Sammour highlights that a plan of this nature would necessitate extensive preparation, stating, “It could be a security nightmare, and Jordan would be seen as betraying the Palestinian cause.”
In Egypt, security concerns mount as officials resist any influx of Palestinian refugees, fearing that vast camps in the Sinai desert could escalate tensions and threaten stability. The country’s reluctance is grounded in the underlying fear of a permanent humanitarian crisis that could invigorate local militant groups anti to the Egyptian regime.
The Egyptian economy also faces considerable challenges, and increased refugee numbers could impose unbearable economic pressure. Public dissent in both Jordan and Egypt may lead to unrest if either nation appears complicit in a perceived ethnic cleansing of the Palestinian people. Neil Quilliam warns that Trump’s approach reflects an alarming disregard for the political landscapes in both countries and their fears of destabilization.
Trump, upon meeting with Netanyahu, expressed confidence that Abdullah and Sisi would eventually agree to the proposal, suggesting, “They will open their hearts [to] give us the kind of land that we need to get this done, and people can live in harmony and peace.” The reality in Jordan and Egypt, however, presents a vastly different picture, as both leaders must navigate a politically charged environment and the profound implications of displacement for their nations.
The article addresses the ramifications of Donald Trump’s controversial proposal regarding Gaza, which includes displacing Palestinians to allow the territory to be redeveloped. The plan has incited fears among Jordan and Egypt about the potential for a new wave of refugees, reminiscent of previous displacements throughout the mid-20th century. These nations have deep-rooted historical connections to the Palestinian issue, complicating their responses to the proposal given their reliance on U.S. aid and support.
In summary, Trump’s Gaza proposal has significant implications for Jordan and Egypt, triggering fears of destabilization and potential mass displacement of Palestinians. Both countries face a precarious balancing act, attempting to maintain their relations with the U.S. while upholding their commitments to Palestinian welfare. The historical context and political sensitivities surrounding the Palestinian issue cannot be overlooked, as any forced resettlement would deeply affect social stability and national identity in these Arab states.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
