President Trump’s threats to withdraw U.S. aid if Egypt and Jordan do not accept displaced Palestinians have sparked strong condemnation from Arab nations. Experts argue that such a proposal would violate international norms and strain relations. Jordan and Egypt maintain their opposition to forced displacement, seeking support from Gulf states instead, while potential shifts in military alliances pose additional challenges for both countries.
Recent threats by President Trump to withdraw aid from Egypt and Jordan if they refuse to accept displaced Palestinians from Gaza have met sharp backlash from Arab states, which have openly rejected the proposal. Experts argue that the forced relocation of Palestinians would breach international law and describe it as potentially ethnically cleansing. Brian Katulis from the Middle East Institute stated, “I see no scenario where this happens – this is their home.”
Despite discussions of possible displacement, both Jordan and Egypt have emphasized their support for the Palestinians and rejected the idea of forcibly relocating them. According to Daniel Drezner, a political science professor, such a proposal is unlikely, particularly as it places significant stress on Jordanian and Egyptian economies, which are already strained by past refugee inflows. He noted, “This is a model that just won’t work in today’s Middle East.”
Arab countries are currently assessing their reactions to Trump’s aggressive stance. Egypt’s Foreign Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to Palestinian rights, advocating for a two-state solution. Consequently, Egyptian President El Sisi postponed a White House visit, distancing himself from Trump’s agenda on Palestinian displacement. Analysts suggest that the response of Gulf states could shape future dynamics between the U.S. and these Arab countries.
Political analysts fear that Trump’s provocations complicate ongoing ceasefire negotiations and humanitarian aid distribution amid the Israel-Palestine conflict. Trapped in a difficult position, both Jordan and Egypt might seek assistance from wealthier Gulf nations like Saudi Arabia and the UAE if U.S. aid is threatened. Drezner emphasizes the importance of Gulf cooperation in countering U.S. pressure, suggesting that adverse reactions could reshape regional alliances.
Jordan’s King Abdullah has firmly stated that the country stands against the displacement of Palestinians, emphasizing the urgency of rebuilding Gaza while addressing humanitarian needs. After meeting with Trump, the Jordanian response demonstrated a measured approach, highlighting Jordanians’ reluctance to accept Trump’s conditions. The kingdom’s participation was contingent on aid and military support from the U.S., which remains vital for their security apparatus.
Potential repercussions of forcing Palestinians out could not only spark unrest but also destabilize the political landscape, leading to challenges for host nations. Drezner predicted that any displacement could incite violent non-state actors to engage from these countries, thereby complicating security scenarios. Historical patterns indicate that displaced populations often resist relocation, creating tensions wherever they are resettled.
While Russia and China could potentially step in to fund Jordan and Egypt if U.S. aid wanes, shifting military alliances poses considerable risks. Drezner described the difficulties of transitioning to new arms suppliers, noting that both nations depend heavily on existing U.S. military technology. Adapting to new military supplies could take substantial time, and integration with current systems might be problematic, complicating their respective security strategies.
Trump’s proposal to pressure Egypt and Jordan into accepting displaced Palestinians has encountered staunch opposition from both Arab nations and experts alike. The potential for economic strain and geopolitical instability has compelled Egypt and Jordan to reject these measures, necessitating assistance from the Gulf states in response. This situation underscores the complexities of regional dynamics as U.S. foreign policy intersects with long-standing diplomatic relationships in the Middle East.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
