Experts are concerned that Trump’s threats to withdraw aid to Egypt and Jordan to accept displaced Palestinians could destabilize regional relations. Arab states have rejected this idea, emphasizing the impracticality of forced displacement, as articulated by experts like Brian Katulis. Trump’s proposals may undermine ongoing peace processes and threaten the stability of Jordan and Egypt, which are already grappling with existing economic challenges. A shift in alliances towards Gulf states or other international powers might occur if U.S. aid is withdrawn.
Experts have expressed concerns regarding President Donald Trump’s threats to withdraw financial aid to Egypt and Jordan if they fail to accept Palestinians displaced from Gaza. Such moves could strain the existing relationships between the U.S. and these nations and may lead to the formation of new alliances within the region. Arab states have categorically rejected the idea, with leaders emphasizing that such displacement is not a feasible solution.
Brian Katulis, a senior fellow at the Middle East Institute, stated, “There is zero possibility that Palestinians will be forcibly displaced from Gaza and into Jordan and Egypt. This is their home; they have endured so much to stay here.” Katulis further explained that Trump’s proposals could undermine ongoing peace efforts in the region, diverting attention from crucial negotiations involving hostages and humanitarian aid.
Initially, Trump threatened to withdraw aid to compel Egypt and Jordan to accept the Palestinian population, but he later retracted this stance. Daniel Drezner from Tufts University noted that while the Jordanian and Egyptian economies struggle, they are unlikely to comply with such demands without support from wealthy Gulf states.
Arab nations quickly condemned Trump’s proposals, with Saudi Arabia reaffirming its commitment to the establishment of a Palestinian state. Egyptian President Abdelfatah El Sisi publicly rejected any talks with the Trump administration that included the idea of Palestinian displacement, indicating a clear opposition from regional powers.
The situation presents a dilemma for Jordan, as accommodating Palestinian refugees could jeopardize its stability. Drezner warned that forced displacement could lead to violent unrest, underscoring the inherent risks involved. Furthermore, Egypt and Jordan face economic strain from hosting numerous refugees, which complicates their ability to absorb more from Palestine.
International reactions reveal a sentiment against Trump’s threats. Drezner suggested that other countries, such as China, might step in to fill economic gaps created by U.S. aid withdrawals, although Jordan and Egypt depend heavily on American military supplies. Transitioning to new suppliers would be complex and time-consuming, potentially destabilizing their military capabilities.
Ultimately, the ongoing tension over Palestinian displacement illustrates the precarious balance these nations must maintain in their foreign relations while safeguarding their national interests.
In summary, President Trump’s threats to cut aid to Egypt and Jordan in an attempt to displace Palestinians from Gaza have sparked significant backlash from regional allies. There is a consensus among experts, including Brian Katulis and Daniel Drezner, that such proposals are not only impractical but could also destabilize the region further. Both Jordan and Egypt seek to maintain their sovereignty and stability, and recent developments indicate a strong unified stance against forced displacement. The long-term implications of these tensions may reshape alliances within the Middle East.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
