Trump Proposes Relocating Gaza Population to Egypt and Jordan

Proposal by Trump: U.S. President Donald Trump suggested that Egypt and Jordan should absorb most of Gaza's population to "clean out" the territory. He mentioned discussing this with Jordan’s King Abdullah and planning to talk with Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi.

Implications: This proposal contrasts sharply with the long-standing U.S. policy advocating for a two-state solution. Trump's idea involves moving approximately 1.5 million people from Gaza, which he described as largely destroyed due to ongoing conflict.

Reaction: Egypt and Jordan: Both countries have rejected this idea previously, citing concerns over the "liquidation of the Palestinian cause" and potential threats to their peace agreements with Israel.

Hamas: Vehemently opposed, stating that Palestinians reject any displacement from their land.

Arab Public Opinion: The suggestion could be seen as a second "Nakba", leading to significant outrage due to historical precedents where displaced Palestinians were not allowed to return.

Expert Analysis: H.A. Hellyer from the Center for American Progress highlighted the destabilizing effects this could have, particularly for Jordan with its already significant Palestinian population, and Egypt, potentially leading to conflict if Palestinians were relocated to Sinai. He also noted the negative impact on normalization efforts between Israel and Saudi Arabia.

Israeli Right-Wing Response: Leaders like Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and former National Security Minister Itamar…   Ben-Gvir praised the proposal, seeing it as innovative thinking for peace and security.

Current Conflict Context: The proposal comes amidst a strained ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, with issues around the release of hostages and the return of displaced Palestinians to northern Gaza. Additionally, tensions are high with Lebanon where Israel has not withdrawn its forces as per agreement, leading to civilian casualties.

Military Aid: Trump confirmed the release of 2,000-pound bombs to Israel, reversing a previous hold by the Biden administration.

This proposal, if pursued, could lead to significant regional instability and would likely face international condemnation due to its resemblance to ethnic cleansing.