Egypt and Jordan Support Trump’s Assurance on Palestinians in Gaza

Egypt and Jordan have welcomed President Trump’s statements confirming that Palestinians will not be expelled from Gaza, contrasting his previous plan that suggested their relocation. The shift has been positively received by various Palestinian representatives and aligns with renewed Arab proposals for the reconstruction of Gaza, backed by significant international support.

Egypt and Jordan have expressed their approval of United States President Donald Trump’s recent comments indicating that Palestinians from the Gaza Strip will not be expelled. However, it remains uncertain whether this statement signifies a shift in Trump’s earlier proposal for the U.S. to assume control over Gaza, a concept he initially introduced in February. During that announcement, Trump suggested transforming Gaza into the “Riviera of the Middle East” while proposing the relocation of its Palestinian inhabitants to Egypt and Jordan, which both nations vehemently opposed.

In a recent press conference at the White House, Trump remarked, “Nobody will expel the Palestinians,” in response to an inquiry regarding potential discussions about the expulsion of Palestinians during a meeting with Irish Prime Minister Michael Martin. The Egyptian foreign ministry conveyed its gratitude for Trump’s assurance against the expulsion of Gaza’s residents, while Jordan’s foreign ministry emphasized its endorsement of his remarks, highlighting the significance of achieving a just and enduring peace aligned with the two-state solution.

Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem stated that Trump’s change of stance was “well received” in Gaza. Additionally, Hussein al-Sheikh, the secretary-general of the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO), conveyed appreciation for the President’s confirmation that Gaza’s residents would not be compelled to leave their homeland.

Last week, Arab nations introduced an alternative to Trump’s proposed expulsion plan. Spearheaded by Egypt, the proposal encompassed a budget of $53 billion and a five-year timeline for the reconstruction of Gaza, which endured devastation over [a period of] 15 months of conflict with Israel. This plan includes a framework for post-war governance in Gaza and has received support from several European nations, including the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Italy, and was adopted by the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.

The recent endorsement from Egypt and Jordan of President Trump’s remarks on the Palestinian situation reflects a potential shift in diplomatic relations regarding Gaza. Both nations have emphasized the need for peace rooted in the two-state solution. Additionally, the Arab proposal for Gaza’s reconstruction, which secures substantial financial backing, highlights a collaborative effort for future stability in the region. This complex situation requires ongoing attention and dialogue to ensure a sustainable resolution for all parties involved.

Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net