Jordan has firmly rejected Donald Trump’s plan to relocate Palestinians from Gaza, warning it threatens national security and regional stability. King Abdullah insists Jordan will not absorb Palestinian refugees, seeing the move as an existential threat to the country’s identity.
Ahead of his February 11 visit to Washington, King Abdullah is mobilizing diplomatic efforts, reaching out to Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar to counter Trump’s proposal. Senior Jordanian officials warn that any forced resettlement could trigger unrest and destabilize Jordan’s fragile demographic balance.
“This is not just about security or economics. It’s an identity issue,” said Marwan Muasher, a former Jordanian foreign minister.
Trump’s Proposal Sparks Backlash
Trump’s Middle East policies have always favored Israel, but his suggestion to relocate Palestinians and turn Gaza into a ‘Riviera’ has drawn outrage. While his team later described the plan as “temporary,” Jordan isn’t buying it.
Tensions are already high, with growing fears that accepting Gazan refugees could lead to a larger West Bank exodus, effectively turning Jordan into Palestine. The kingdom, home to millions of Palestinian-origin citizens, fears another mass displacement could spark political instability.
Jordan Won’t Bow to U.S. Pressure
Despite receiving $1.45 billion in U.S. aid, Jordan insists it won’t accept economic blackmail. The country is already securing alternative funding, signing a €3 billion ($3.1 billion) deal with the EU to reduce reliance on Washington.
At home, anti-Trump protests are rising, with opposition groups condemning the relocation plan. Security agencies are preparing for worst-case scenarios, including reinforcing border defenses and even considering suspending Jordan’s 1994 peace treaty with Israel.
A Diplomatic Showdown in Washington
As King Abdullah prepares to meet U.S. officials, he faces a tough balancing act—firmly rejecting Trump’s plan while keeping relations intact.
“He has to be careful not to get on Trump’s bad side,” warns Joost Hiltermann of the Crisis Group.
Still, Jordan’s stance is clear, it will not become a dumping ground for displaced Palestinians, no matter the pressure from Washington.
