Egypt and Jordan welcome Trump’s comments that Palestinians won’t be expelled from Gaza, marking a potential shift from earlier proposals. The Arab states have proposed a reconstruction plan for Gaza, supported by multiple European countries, to facilitate lasting peace in the region.
Egypt and Jordan have reacted positively to US President Donald Trump’s recent statement asserting that Palestinians will not be expelled from Gaza. This comes after prior comments from Trump in February suggesting that the US would control Gaza and that Palestinians would be relocated to Jordan and Egypt. Trump clarified, “Nobody will expel the Palestinians,” in response to questions during a press conference at the White House.
The foreign ministries of both Egypt and Jordan expressed appreciation for Trump’s remarks. Egypt highlighted the significance of non-expulsion, while Jordan emphasized the need for a just and lasting peace based on the two-state solution. The news also found a favorable reception in Gaza, with Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem acknowledging this apparent shift.
Hussein al-Sheikh, secretary-general of the PLO, echoed this sentiment, noting the value of Trump’s confirmation that Gaza residents may remain in their homeland. In response to the earlier proposal to displace Palestinians, Arab states have put forward an alternative plan led by Egypt. This initiative proposes a $53 billion budget and a five-year timeline for the reconstruction of Gaza, which has suffered extensively due to prolonged conflict, and suggests a framework for future governance. The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation adopted this plan, receiving backing from several European nations such as the UK, France, Germany, and Italy.
In summary, Egypt and Jordan welcomed Trump’s declaration that Palestinians will not be expelled from Gaza. This marks a potential shift from his previous stance of US control over Gaza. The Arab states’ alternative reconstruction plan for Gaza, with substantial financial backing, underscores the regional desire for a sustainable peace solution that respects the rights of Palestinians.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
