In a strategic meeting at the White House on Tuesday, President Donald Trump welcomed Jordan’s King Abdullah II. The visit occurs at a time of escalating tensions regarding potential plans to relocate Palestinian refugees to Jordan and neighboring Arab nations as part of a broader effort to reconstruct Gaza.

Trump’s Proposal for Gaza

During a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on February 4, Trump detailed ambitious plans for the Gaza Strip. He proposed that the U.S. would assume a “long-term ownership position” aimed at delivering stability in the region. This declaration was met with immediate criticism from several Arab nations, including Jordan.

Immediate Backlash from Arab Nations

Following Trump’s announcement, prominent Arab leaders expressed their discontent. Egypt, in a notable move, convened an emergency Arab Summit scheduled for February 27 to discuss the “new and dangerous developments” surrounding the resettlement of Palestinians. The urgency of this summit underscores the gravity with which these nations view Trump’s proposal.

Expectations and Warnings

In an interview with Fox News anchor Bret Baier, Trump reiterated his confidence that King Abdullah would agree to accept Palestinian refugees. “I do think he’ll take, and I think other countries will take also,” Trump stated. However, he did not shy away from issuing a warning that financial aid to Jordan could be jeopardized if the country refuses to accommodate Palestinian refugees.

“Yeah, maybe, sure why not,” Trump responded when asked if he would consider withholding aid, confirming that the U.S. provided nearly .7 billion in foreign aid to Jordan in fiscal year 2023, as reported by the State Department.

A Vision for Gaza’s Future

At the press conference where Trump outlined his plans, he envisions transforming Gaza into the “Riviera of the Middle East.” His vision encompasses extensive infrastructure development, including the removal of unexploded ordnance and the destruction of hazardous buildings. “Level the site and get rid of the destroyed buildings, level it out, create an economic development that will supply unlimited numbers of jobs and housing for the people of the area,” Trump elaborated.

However, there is significant contention regarding the details of the plan, particularly concerning the status of Palestinian inhabitants. While Trump indicated that all Palestinians would be removed from Gaza, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt later clarified that their exit would only be “temporary” during the rebuilding phase. Trump further asserted during his Fox News interview that under his plan, Palestinians would not return to Gaza.

Reactions in Washington

Trump’s ambitious proposal has sparked a spectrum of responses on Capitol Hill. Some lawmakers, particularly among the Democratic ranks, expressed disbelief at the plan’s audacity. “I’m speechless, that’s insane,” remarked Sen. Chris Coons (D-Del.) when speaking to Jewish Insider on February 4. Conversely, some Republican leaders, including Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.), took a more muted stance. Thune expressed that perhaps Trump’s proposals represented an earnest attempt to seek a peaceful and secure Middle East, despite the controversial nature of the ideas presented.