Former President Donald Trump recently proposed relocating over a million Palestinians from Gaza to neighboring countries, a suggestion that has sparked widespread backlash and controversy. Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump shared that he had spoken with Jordan’s King Abdullah II about the idea, suggesting that both Jordan and Egypt house displaced Palestinians. The proposal, described as a way to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, was met with firm rejections from both nations.
“I’d love you to take on more,” Trump reportedly told the Jordanian king, referring to the displaced population in Gaza. He further elaborated that the relocation could be temporary or long-term and envisioned housing projects in other regions for Palestinians to “live in peace.” However, both Jordan and Egypt have rejected the notion, emphasizing that Palestinians must remain on their land. Jordan’s Foreign Minister, Ayman Safadi, stated, “Jordan is for Jordanians, and Palestine is for Palestinians,” firmly opposing any forced displacement. Similarly, Egypt’s Foreign Ministry expressed concerns that such actions would threaten stability and escalate regional conflict.
Trump’s remarks align with sentiments held by Israel’s far-right factions, which have long advocated relocating Palestinians to neighboring Arab countries to facilitate Jewish settlements in Gaza. While this stance finds support among extremist figures, it starkly contrasts with decades of U.S. policy that has upheld the vision of a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The proposal has drawn criticism not only from Palestinian leaders but also from international observers who warn that the plan could destabilize the region and violate international principles.
The Gaza conflict has already displaced approximately 90% of its residents, as Israeli airstrikes have devastated much of the region, destroying homes, schools, and hospitals. The humanitarian crisis has left millions of Palestinians seeking refuge while grappling with the aftermath of destruction. Leaders in the region, including Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, have cautioned that forced displacement from Gaza could lead to broader displacement in the West Bank, further undermining the possibility of a Palestinian state.
Palestinian representatives, including Hamas and independent politicians, have strongly condemned Trump’s remarks. Dr. Mustafa Barghouti, a Palestinian political figure, labeled the proposal as a veiled attempt at ethnic cleansing. “What the occupation has failed to achieve through bombardment cannot be implemented through political pressure,” he said.
Critics have also pointed out the logistical and ethical challenges of relocating such a large population. Jordan and Egypt, which already host millions of Palestinian refugees, face financial constraints and security risks associated with absorbing additional displaced individuals. Furthermore, any forced displacement could strain peace treaties and lead to widespread unrest in the region.
While Trump’s comments may align with some Israeli political factions, they risk alienating Arab allies and inflaming tensions. For Palestinians, the proposal is seen as a direct attack on their right to remain on their homeland, intensifying calls for international solidarity and a renewed focus on achieving a viable two-state solution.
