Middle Eastern Leaders Support Trump’s Remarks on Palestinian Presence in Gaza

Egypt, Jordan, Hamas, and the PLO welcomed President Trump’s assertion that no Palestinians will be expelled from Gaza. In response, Arab foreign ministers, alongside U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, convened to discuss Gaza’s reconstruction. Egypt and Jordan highlighted the importance of pursuing a two-state solution for enduring peace, amid ongoing opposition to Palestinian statehood from Israel.

On Thursday, Egypt, Jordan, Hamas, and the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) expressed support for U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent statement that “nobody’s expelling any Palestinians” from the Gaza Strip. This remark may indicate a retreat from his controversial plan that proposed displacing Palestinians to neighboring countries. Trump’s comments came amid a discussion with Irish Prime Minister Michael Martin at the White House, addressing inquiries about the expulsion of Palestinians from Gaza.

Subsequently, Arab foreign ministers met with U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff in Doha to discuss the Gaza reconstruction plan, originally approved during the Arab League Summit in Cairo on March 4, 2025. Qatar’s foreign ministry emphasized that discussions aimed at coordinating reconstruction efforts have taken a significant step forward, which they view as essential for the region’s future stability.

Egypt, involved in mediating talks between Hamas and Israel, commended Trump’s remarks, stating they reflect a “positive direction” towards advancing peace efforts. Following this, Jordan also welcomed Trump’s stance while highlighting the necessity of establishing a lasting peace based on a two-state solution, recognizing both Israeli and Palestinian sovereignty.

Despite these discussions, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s administration continues to oppose Palestinian statehood. The original proposition by Trump to displace over two million Palestinians from Gaza was met with disapproval from both Egypt and Jordan, leading Trump to clarify he was not enforcing this plan.

Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem commended the U.S. President’s remarks as a beneficial retreat from the prior expulsion proposal. Additionally, the PLO, excluding Hamas, reaffirmed their appreciation for Trump’s assertion on the rights of Gaza’s residents, recognizing their right to remain in their homeland. Furthermore, the Arab League’s reconstruction plan has received backing from the 57-member Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, emphasizing their commitment to the Palestinian cause.

In conclusion, recent statements made by U.S. President Donald Trump regarding the non-expulsion of Palestinians from Gaza have garnered positive responses from Egypt, Jordan, Hamas, and the PLO. The discussions surrounding Gaza’s reconstruction reflect a collaborative effort among Arab states and the U.S. towards a peaceful resolution. Despite ongoing challenges and Israeli opposition to Palestinian statehood, there is a cohesive push for reconstruction under Palestinian authority, acknowledging the need for a viable two-state solution.

Original Source: gulfnews.com