Jordan and Egypt Respond to Trump's Remarks; Opposition to the Relocation of Palestinians

Officials from Jordan and Egypt have reiterated their opposition to the relocation of Palestinians in response to recent statements by the President of the United States regarding the transfer of Gaza Palestinians to these two countries. Donald Trump stated early Sunday, February 26, that Jordan and Egypt should host more Palestinians due to the 'chaotic situation' in the Gaza Strip. Jordan's Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi emphasized that his country's opposition to the 'relocation of Palestinians' is a 'fixed and unchangeable' position. In a joint press conference with Sigrid Kaag, the UN Coordinator for the Middle East, Safadi stated that Jordan's priority is 'the settlement of Palestinians in their own land.' He also linked the achievement of peace to the establishment of an independent Palestinian state and stressed the position of 'Jordan for Jordanians and Palestine for Palestinians.' This Jordanian official also mentioned that his country seeks cooperation with the new U.S. administration and currently prioritizes establishing a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and delivering humanitarian aid. It is estimated that around two million Palestinians reside in Jordan. Meanwhile, Egyptian officials also reacted to the recent statements by the U.S. President. The Egyptian Foreign Ministry issued a statement emphasizing its opposition to any 'violation of the legitimate rights of Palestinians,' including their relocation 'whether temporarily or permanently.' The statement also warned that the failure to respect Palestinian rights 'threatens stability, raises alarms about the escalation of conflicts, and undermines the chances for peace and coexistence.' Members of the Egyptian parliament and the country's ambassador in Washington have also issued separate statements opposing Trump's proposal. The Arab League also stated that 'forced relocation and expulsion of people from their land can only be termed ethnic cleansing.'