KEY POINTS
- Egypt is coordinating with Arab nations to reject Trump’s Gaza resettlement plan.
- Arab leaders insist on a two-state solution instead of forced displacement.
- Cairo warns that removing Palestinians would destabilize the region.
Egypt has been working closely with its Arab allies to push back against U.S. President Donald Trump’s controversial proposal to resettle Palestinians outside of Gaza.
In a statement issued Friday, Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty confirmed that he had engaged in discussions with counterparts from 11 countries, including Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.
The Arab states have reaffirmed their long-standing position, rejecting any forced transfer of Palestinians from their land.
Such a move would violate international principles in a “flagrant manner” while harming regional peace and security stability.
Arab leaders strongly reject the plan Trump introduced to seize Gaza and develop it into what he calls the “Riviera of the Middle East.”
The leaders advocate a two-state alternative which would establish an independent Palestinian state, while Israel sustains its existence.
Egypt warns of serious consequences
Egypt’s leadership has made it clear that it will not accept any initiative that forces Palestinians out of their territory.
According to Reuters, President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has publicly stated that Egyptians would “take to the streets” in protest if such a plan were implemented.
Egyptian security officials also confirmed that the country’s presidency, military, and intelligence agencies are aligned in rejecting Trump’s vision.
While they may have differing opinions on how best to respond, their stance remains firm.
At the heart of Egypt’s concerns is the fear that forced displacement would escalate tensions, increase instability, and undermine any future peace efforts.
Cairo and other Arab nations are now focusing on rebuilding Gaza and providing humanitarian aid following Israel’s military operations in response to Hamas’ October 7, 2023, attack.
Gaza’s future remains uncertain
The Arab countries resist Trump’s population relocation scheme yet they remain divided about what to do regarding Gaza’s future.
The warfare in the geographical area has left the enclave completely destroyed while the humanitarian situation remains severely bad.
Egypt conducts vital mediation efforts between both Qatar and the United States for ceasefire settlement negotiations and aid delivery.
The administration of Donald Trump has presented its new plan while Cairo continues to take the leadership position, regarding diplomatic negotiations to protect Palestinian residency rights in their homeland.
Egypt along with Arab partners plans to present a shared strategic plan, which ensures both stability for Gaza and maintains Palestinian self-rule.
