US President Donald Trump’s recent suggestion to move more Palestinians from Gaza to Jordan and Egypt has raised significant concerns. This proposal, emerging after 15 months of war, has intensified fears among Gaza’s 2.3 million residents and neighboring Arab countries.
Trump’s remarks have amplified concerns among Palestinians, who worry about being permanently displaced from Gaza. Arab countries, particularly Egypt and Jordan, fear the destabilizing effects of such a mass exodus. Palestinians have long been haunted by the “Nakba” of 1948, when 700,000 people were driven from their homes. Many fled to neighboring countries, where they still reside in refugee camps.
The Ongoing Conflict and Its Devastating Impact
The latest conflict has seen unprecedented Israeli bombardments and a ground offensive, devastating Gaza’s urban areas. According to Palestinian and UN officials, there are no longer any safe places in Gaza. The situation worsened after Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, killing 1,200 Israelis, according to Israeli reports. Palestinian health officials have reported over 47,000 deaths in Gaza since then.
Before launching the offensive, Israel urged Palestinians in northern Gaza to move south. As the conflict intensified, Israel directed them further south, towards Rafah. UN estimates suggest that up to 85% of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents have been displaced.
Palestinians Fear Permanent Displacement
Many Palestinians have refused to leave, fearing permanent displacement similar to what happened in 1948. Egypt has kept its border closed, allowing only a few foreigners and dual nationals to leave. Arab nations strongly oppose any forced movement of Palestinians across borders.
Arab governments, especially Egypt and Jordan, have warned against pushing Palestinians from their land. They argue such actions would further harm the prospects for a Palestinian state. UN officials, including aid chief Martin Griffiths, have expressed concern over the practicality of mass evacuations from Gaza.
Israel’s Position on Displacement
Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz said on February 16, 2024, that Israel would not deport Palestinians. He added that Israel would coordinate with Egypt to manage Palestinian refugees. However, comments from Israeli leaders like Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir have intensified fears. Their statements, calling for Palestinians to leave Gaza, have sparked alarm in both Palestine and Arab nations.
The ongoing tension highlights the uncertain future of Gaza and the deep fears of displacement. The region remains on edge, as both Palestinians and Arab nations brace for further developments.
