Rubio, Jordan’s king discuss Gaza after Trump’s refugee remarks

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio held talks with Jordan’s King Abdullah on Monday, just days after former President Donald Trump proposed that Jordan and Egypt should accept more Palestinian refugees from Gaza.

Background

Trump’s Saturday comments about “cleaning out” Gaza, devastated by war, revived fears among Palestinians of permanent displacement. Trump suggested that relocating Gazans to neighboring nations like Jordan and Egypt could be a temporary or permanent solution. Both countries quickly rejected the idea, emphasizing the need to address the crisis within Gaza itself.

Official Statements

The State Department said Rubio and King Abdullah discussed efforts to implement the Gaza ceasefire, the release of hostages, and establishing long-term security in the region. Trump’s controversial comments were notably absent from the statement.

“Secretary Rubio thanked Jordan for its critical role in facilitating humanitarian aid through the Jordan Corridor,” the department added.

Broader Context

The Gaza conflict escalated on October 7, 2023, when a Hamas attack on Israel left 1,200 Israelis dead and over 250 hostages taken. Israel’s subsequent response killed more than 47,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza health authorities. Amid accusations of genocide and war crimes, Israel denies such charges. A fragile ceasefire now holds as both sides contend with immense losses.

Jordan and Egypt, which already host millions of Palestinian refugees, have reiterated their stance against any forced displacement from Gaza, underscoring the need for a political resolution that preserves Palestinian rights and addresses the ongoing humanitarian crisis.

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