US President Donald Trump will meet with Jordan’s King Abdullah on Tuesday. The meeting follows tensions over Trump's Gaza redevelopment proposal. The US president has threatened to cut aid to Jordan if the country refuses to resettle Palestinian refugees.
Trump’s Gaza Proposal
Trump suggested that the US take control of Gaza. He proposed relocating its residents and turning the war-torn area into the "Riviera of the Middle East." This plan has received strong criticism from the Arab world. It also complicates the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
Hamas Stops Releasing Hostages
On Monday, Hamas announced it would stop releasing Israeli hostages. The group claims Israel violated the ceasefire agreement. In response, Trump threatened to cancel the ceasefire if Hamas doesn’t release all remaining hostages by the weekend.
King Abdullah’s Opposition
King Abdullah has firmly rejected any plan to annex land or displace Palestinians. He is expected to tell Trump that such a move would encourage radicalism, destabilize the region, and harm peace with Israel. The king will also warn that it threatens Jordan’s security.
Trump’s Firm Stance
Trump remains resolute in his plan. He has modified some aspects but stands firm on others. He expressed frustration with Arab leaders who find the proposal unworkable.
Aid Threats to Jordan and Egypt
Trump was asked if he would withhold aid to Jordan and Egypt if they refuse to take in refugees. He answered, “Yeah, maybe, sure, why not… if they don’t agree, I would conceivably withhold aid.”
Jordan already hosts over 2 million Palestinian refugees. The country’s leadership has long worried about the impact this has on national stability.
