Arab nations rejected U.S. President Donald Trump's controversial proposal to relocate Palestinians from Gaza to neighboring Egypt and Jordan during a recent meeting of top diplomats.
This significant joint declaration came after Arab League foreign ministers convened on February 1, 2025, to discuss the deteriorative situation following the prolonged conflict in Gaza, which has left its 2.3 million residents largely homeless and the region devastated. The statement clearly articulates the Arab nations' collective stance, asserting their unwavering opposition to any actions they perceive as undermining the rights of Palestinians.
According to China Daily, the Arab League's foreign ministers emphasized, "We affirm our rejection of [any attempts] to compromise Palestinians’ unalienable rights, whether through settlement activities, or evictions or [annexations] of land or through vacated land from its owners … under any circumstances or justifications." This sentiment was mirrored by Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, who remarked, "The transfer of Palestinians can't ever be tolerated or allowed. The solution to this issue is the two-state solution."
Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi firmly reiterated his government’s stance as well, stating, "Our refusal of displacement is a steadfast position … Palestine is for Palestinians." It is notable to mention the fear expressed by both leaders concerning the ramifications of Trump's suggestion, especially the potential destabilization of their already fraught economies and political climates should there be large resettlements.
Trump proposed his relocation idea as the war's aftermath left Gaza homes and livelihoods devastated, dubbing it "literally a demolition site right now." He expressed confidence, perhaps misplaced, stating, "I think Jordan will take people, yeah, people from Gaza, and I think Egypt will take them also." This assertion, as the recent Arab statements indicate, has met stiff resistance.
Qatar's Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani weighed in following the summit, asserting, "It is obvious for us this is impossible," also expressing Qatar's readiness to mobilize efforts to support Gaza's residents directly without endorsing any form of forced relocation, as highlighted by various media outlets such as News.Az.
The Arab nations came together amid heightened concerns about Israel’s intentions following the U.S. President's comments on potentially displacing Gazans post-conflict. They warned against actions dwelling on the expulsion or disregard for Palestinian welfare, signaling the harsh international repercussions of such plans. The joint statement emphasized potential threats to regional stability and the overarching push for peace, underscoring their dedication to negotiating under the framework of the two-state solution.
"Such actions threaten regional stability, exacerbate conflict, and undermine the prospects for peace and coexistence among the region's peoples," stated various officials alleging the destabilizing effects of forced resettlement. They collectively highlighted the necessity of international support for reconstruction efforts, aiming to provide secure and sustainable lives for the Palestinians within their native territory, rather than resettlement as Trump suggested.
Throughout the discussions following Trump's original statements, participation from key Palestinian officials flowed alongside Arab leaders, framing the debate through the lens of longstanding claims over rights and territories. Specifically, Hussein al-Sheikh, senior Palestinian official and key liaison with Israel, highlighted the urgency of addressing Palestinian needs on the ground, convening alongside leaders from Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
These nations not only reaffirmed their dedication to the Palestinian cause but also the need for humanitarian assistance and creative solutions within Gaza to prevent future tragedies. Arab officials noted the indispensable role played by the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), identifying it as pivotal support meant for resettlement and aid.
With reconstruction and peace prospects hanging under the shadow of such controversial proposals, Arab leaders demonstrated unity and resilience against the potential impact of external decisions. They insist initiatives moving forward should echo the voice and rights of the Palestinian people.
With the situation continuing to evolve, the consequences of such discussions and decisions lie heavily, drawing attention to urgent global commitments toward obtaining lasting peace and facilitating humanitarian efforts without disregarding the historical rights of Palestinians.
None can ignore the clear assertion from Arab nations: any solution to this conflict must meaningfully include Palestinians, incorporating their voices as primary stakeholders.