Recent threats from U.S. President Donald Trump to cut aid to Egypt could destabilize the Egyptian-Israeli peace treaty. The meeting between President el-Sisi and Trump has been indefinitely postponed amid strained relations. Egypt has initiated precautions against potential aid cuts, which could heavily impact its economy. Both Egypt and Jordan oppose the proposed displacement of Palestinians and advocate for a two-state solution.
Tensions are rising between Egypt and Israel, particularly regarding U.S. aid and the ongoing crisis in Gaza. Diplomatic sources in Cairo indicate that the Egyptian-Israeli peace treaty may face challenges if U.S. President Donald Trump follows through on threats to cut aid to Egypt. These threats come as Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi has postponed a meeting with Trump, reflecting the worst bilateral relations in decades due to Cairo’s criticism of Trump’s plan involving Palestinian displacement.
The U.S. administration had previously frozen international aid for several weeks but excluded Egypt and Israel due to the regional conflict. Nevertheless, discussions have emerged regarding Egypt’s preparedness for a potential aid cutoff, with the country taking precautions and formulating emergency plans to address the pressure related to Palestinian displacement. Egypt, which receives about $2.1 billion in U.S. aid, faces considerable economic consequences if American assistance is suspended.
While the aid freeze has affected Jordan, Egypt and Israel managed to maintain their support owing to their significant roles in Middle Eastern security and the peace agreement. Analysts suggest this exemption, however, is now in jeopardy due to Trump’s recent statements. Jordan, which is strategically important and heavily reliant on U.S. funding, is scheduled to meet with Trump in a bid to navigate its own aid challenges in light of heightened regional tensions.
Jordan’s King Abdullah II is actively engaging in diplomacy, fostering cooperation with the European Union on various issues, including political stability and refugee management. The U.S. and Jordan have a longstanding partnership focused on shared interests, though historical tensions remain evident. Academics highlight that despite King Abdullah’s criticism of U.S. policies, particularly regarding Israeli relations, he has maintained his sovereignty against unilateral American moves.
Both Egypt and Jordan oppose any plans to displace Palestinians from Gaza, fearing it would exacerbate regional instability. Their governments advocate for a two-state solution, asserting the necessity for a Palestinian entity with East Jerusalem as its capital. They caution that American economic pressure may not suffice to alter their stance on fundamental geopolitical issues, which could shift alliances in the region away from Israeli interests.
Recent dialogues indicate that Arab leaders are unwilling to endorse Trump’s proposal, emphasizing the need for Palestinian support within Gaza. Egyptian officials have reiterated their position that displacing Palestinians would undermine their rights and the broader Palestinian cause. Ultimately, while U.S. aid cuts represent a significant threat, they also present an opportunity for a strategic recalibration in Middle Eastern relations.
The ongoing diplomatic tensions between Egypt, Jordan, and the U.S. present a significant challenge to the stability of the region. Should U.S. aid to Egypt be suspended, it may jeopardize the peace treaty with Israel and lead to undesirable consequences for American interests. Furthermore, both Egyptian and Jordanian governments remain united in their opposition to the displacement of Palestinians, emphasizing the importance of a two-state solution. Ultimately, these developments could reshape alliances and impact regional dynamics moving forward.
Original Source: www.ynetnews.com
