Palestinians displaced to the south at Israel’s order during the war make their way back to their homes in northern Gaza, amid a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, in Gaza City on January 27, 2025.
Ramadan Abed | Reuters
Arab Ministers Unite in Rejecting Palestinian Relocation
In a significant display of solidarity, Arab foreign ministers on Saturday rejected the proposed transfer of Palestinians from Gaza under any circumstances. This unanimous stance came as a response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s previous suggestion that Egypt and Jordan should take in residents of the Gaza Strip.
Firm Opposition to Rights Compromise
The joint statement issued by the Arab ministers affirmed their rejection of any attempts to compromise Palestinians’ unalienable rights. This opposition encompasses not only settlement activities and evictions but also annexing land or removing owners from their properties in any form or under any justification.
Push for Middle East Peace
While rejecting the relocation提议, the ministers expressed their eagerness to collaborate with Trump’s administration on achieving a just and comprehensive peace in the Middle East. They emphasized the importance of a two-state solution as the path forward.
Trump’s Proposal Met with Controversy
Trump’s suggestion came following weeks of intense criticism over his characterization of Gaza as a “demolition site,” resulting from 15 months of Israeli bombardment that left most of its 2.3 million inhabitants homeless. Critics argue that his proposal amounts to ethnic cleansing, while others cite extensive U.S. aid to both Egypt and Jordan as reasons for compliance.
Egypt’s Resolute Stance
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi firmly rejected the suggestion of displacing Gazans. He further stated that Egyptians would be prepared to protest the idea on the streets, demonstrating the widespread opposition within the country.
Jordan’s Concerns
Jordan, which already hosts several million Palestinians, has also unequivocally rejected the proposal. The kingdom’s foreign ministry highlighted that the issue of Gaza’s residents should be treated with utmost care and respect for their rights.
Focus on Gaza Reconstruction
Despite the controversy, the Arab ministers welcomed Egypt’s plans for hosting an international conference with the United Nations to focus on rebuilding Gaza, a territory largely flattened during the protracted war between Israel and Hamas.
Historical Rejection of Displacement
Any suggestion of Palestinians leaving Gaza, a land they aspire to include in an independent state, remains unacceptable to the Palestinian leadership. This stance has been consistently upheld over generations and remains firm against the backdrop of continued conflict.
Implications for Future Diplomacy
The united Arab position against the proposed relocation underscores the complexity of the Middle East peace process. It highlights the importance of respecting voice and rights of all stakeholders. As the international community seeks solutions, the role of Arab countries will be truly pivotal.
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