U.S.-Jordan Relations Strained Over Trump’s Gaza Resettlement Proposal

In a dramatic escalation of tensions between the U.S. and Jordan, President Donald Trump has pressed King Abdullah II of Jordan to accept Palestinians from Gaza who would be displaced under his controversial plan to take control of the Gaza Strip. However, the Jordanian monarch has firmly opposed the proposal, citing concerns over Palestinian displacement and regional stability.
During a high-stakes meeting at the White House, President Trump outlined his vision for Gaza’s future, suggesting that the U.S. take charge of the region and relocate its inhabitants. His plan envisions transforming the war-ravaged Gaza Strip into what he has described as the “Riviera of the Middle East,” a sprawling, luxurious area where displaced Palestinians would live. Trump urged King Abdullah to absorb these displaced people into Jordan, but the king made it clear that Jordan would not entertain such a proposal.
King Abdullah reaffirmed Jordan’s long-standing position of opposition to the permanent displacement of Palestinians, particularly from Gaza and the occupied West Bank, which shares a border with Jordan. “We cannot accept the forced resettlement of Palestinians, as it undermines their right to return to their homeland,” the king emphasized. His statement highlighted Jordan’s unwavering support for Palestinian sovereignty and rights, marking a clear rejection of Trump’s ambitious plan.
Despite the king’s objections, Trump remained adamant, expressing confidence that both Jordan and Egypt would ultimately agree to accommodate displaced Palestinians. “This is the future, and it will be better for everyone,” Trump remarked, echoing his belief that transforming Gaza into a thriving area would benefit the region and provide economic opportunities for its people.
However, the political landscape remains far from settled. King Abdullah’s opposition to the proposal signals that Jordan, along with other Arab nations, could present an alternative plan. In a statement following the meeting, the king revealed that Arab nations would soon come forward with a counterproposal to Washington, aiming to address the situation in Gaza in a way that respects the rights and dignity of the Palestinian people.
The disagreement has raised concerns about the future of U.S.-Jordan relations, which have traditionally been strong due to shared strategic interests in the Middle East. The tension comes at a time when broader geopolitical dynamics are shifting, with Jordan maintaining its critical role in regional peace processes and its commitment to Palestinian statehood.
As the situation continues to evolve, it is clear that the fate of Gaza and the Palestinian people remains a deeply contentious issue, with Jordan and other Arab nations advocating for a solution that preserves Palestinian rights and sovereignty.