Trump and King Abdullah II Meet at the White House
U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated his plan to take control of the Gaza Strip and permanently relocate its residents, this was during his meeting with Jordan’s King Abdullah II on Tuesday.
This proposal has faced widespread opposition from Washington’s Arab allies, including Jordan.
Shortly after the King and his son arrived at the White House, journalists were allowed into the Oval Office.
The U.S. President indicated that he would not back down from his plan for Washington to take over Gaza and relocate its stunned population, reshaping the war-torn region.
“The gates of hell will open if all hostages are not released by Saturday.”
The visit comes as concerned parties continue efforts to maintain a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas.
This is amid heightened tensions following Hamas’ announcement to suspend a new hostage-prisoner exchange deal.
Hamas accused Israel of violating the truce terms.
While Trump threatened that “the gates of hell will open if all hostages are not released by Saturday.”
Regarding Gaza, Trump stated:
“We will take it, we will keep it and cherish it.
We will ultimately make it a place that provides many jobs for people in the Middle East.”
Adding that his plan “will bring peace” to the region.
Trump Threat To Cut Aid and King Abdullah II Rejects the Displacement of Palestinians
Trump also mentioned that he would consider cutting aid to Jordan if it refuses to resettle Palestinians.
King Abdullah II had earlier stated that he rejects any steps toward annexation or the displacement of Palestinians.
When asked on Tuesday about hosting Palestinians, the King said he must do what is best for his country.
Noting that Arab states would respond to Trump’s plan.
Without explicitly endorsing or opposing Trump’s plan, he said:
“The goal is to make this effort successful in a way that benefits everyone.”
Government Summit 2025: Discussions between the UAE and the International Monetary Fund to enhance cooperation. During the meeting, the most important global economic developments were discussed, as well as prospects for enhancing cooperation between the UAE and the International… pic.twitter.com/FlY1bWlcrX
— UAE Voice (@uae_voiceeng) February 12, 2025
3 out of 4 Americans Oppose Trump Plan for Gaza
It was expected that Trump would be informed that such a move could spark a wave of extremism and chaos in the region,
It would also jeopardize peace with Israel and threaten the survival of the state itself.
In a Reuters/Ipsos poll conducted from February 7 to 9, three out of four Americans, or 74%, said they oppose the idea of the U.S. taking control of Gaza and displacing its Palestinian residents.
The poll showed Republicans divided on the issue, with 55% opposing and 43% supporting it.
Will the Ceasefire Continue after Trump complicated things with King Abdullah II ?
Trump’s proposal has further complicated the delicate situation in the region.
Including the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
Hamas announced on Monday that it would halt the release of Israeli hostages from Gaza until further notice.
Accusing Israel of violating the ceasefire agreement.
Trump later threatened to cancel the deal if Hamas does not release all remaining hostages taken on October 7, 2023, by next Saturday.
