Trump and Jordan’s King Discuss Gaza, U.S. Control Proposal
President Donald Trump met with Jordan’s King Abdullah II at the White House on Tuesday, where he renewed his idea of turning Gaza into a U.S.-controlled tourist destination. This proposal, which would require Arab nations to accept more Palestinian refugees, has been met with strong opposition.
During the Oval Office meeting, Trump suggested that U.S. aid to Jordan and other Arab countries would not be withheld if they refused to take in more refugees, contradicting his earlier statements. King Abdullah did not directly address Trump’s plan but reaffirmed Jordan’s stance against displacing Palestinians. He later emphasized on social media that rebuilding Gaza without removing its residents should be the priority.
Trump also suggested that the U.S. could control Gaza without spending American funds, envisioning new hotels, office buildings, and homes. When asked under what authority the U.S. would take control, he vaguely responded, “under the U.S. authority.”
Additionally, Trump warned that the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas could end if hostages were not released by Saturday—though this deadline does not align with the ceasefire terms.
Jordan and other Arab states firmly oppose Trump’s plan, citing security concerns and the potential harm to the two-state solution. Jordan’s Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi reaffirmed the country’s unwavering stance against the forced displacement of Palestinians.
King Abdullah is also meeting top U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. This visit comes amid escalating tensions over the Gaza ceasefire, as Hamas accuses Israel of violating the truce.
Trump’s plan remains controversial, especially after he stated that Palestinians removed from Gaza would have no right to return. While his administration claims this relocation would be temporary, concerns continue to grow over the long-term impact of such a move.
