Egypt and Jordan have welcomed President Trump’s recent comments stating that Palestinians will not be expelled from Gaza. This declaration is a shift from earlier proposals suggesting their expulsion. Strong support for this new stance has been observed from various entities, including the Palestine Liberation Organisation and Hamas. Additionally, Arab states have proposed a comprehensive reconstruction plan for Gaza with significant backing from European nations.
Egypt and Jordan have expressed support for United States President Donald Trump’s recent comments stating that Palestinians would not be expelled from the Gaza Strip. This shift is noteworthy as it follows Trump’s earlier proposal, made in February, suggesting that the U.S. would “take control” of Gaza and transform it into the “Riviera of the Middle East,” which involved the expulsion of Palestinians to these neighboring countries. Both Egypt and Jordan had firmly opposed this initial proposal.
During a White House press conference, President Trump confirmed, “Nobody will expel the Palestinians,” addressing inquiries about discussions held with Irish Prime Minister Michael Martin regarding the expulsion of Palestinians from Gaza. Egypt’s foreign ministry publicly commended Trump’s affirmation, indicating appreciation for the non-expulsion of Gaza’s residents.
Jordan’s foreign ministry echoed this sentiment, welcoming the president’s remarks while underscoring the need for a just and lasting peace grounded in the two-state solution. This potential change in U.S. policy was reportedly well-received in Gaza, particularly by Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem, who acknowledged the positive response.
Hussein al-Sheikh, secretary general of the Palestine Liberation Organisation, conveyed gratitude for Trump’s affirmation that Gaza’s residents were not required to leave their homeland. Last week, Arab states, led by Egypt, introduced an alternative to the previous U.S. proposal, presenting a reconstruction plan for Gaza with a budget of $53 billion and a five-year timeline to facilitate recovery following a protracted period of conflict.
This comprehensive plan, aimed at rebuilding the war-torn enclave and establishing effective governance, has garnered support from several European nations, including the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Italy, and was ultimately adopted by the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.
In conclusion, President Trump’s recent affirmation that Palestinians would not be expelled from the Gaza Strip marks a significant shift in U.S. policy, which has been positively received by both Egypt and Jordan. The Arab states have proposed a robust reconstruction plan following the region’s devastation, offering an alternative to Trump’s earlier strategies. This response reinforces the importance of a just and lasting peace in accordance with the two-state solution.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net