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Egypt and Jordan Against Trump's Gaza Policy: A Regional Discord

The Trump administration's policies toward Gaza ignited significant controversy across the globe, particularly within the Middle East. Egypt and Jordan, while possessing unique geopolitical positions and relationships with both Israel and the Palestinian territories, found themselves united in their opposition to certain key aspects of these policies. This article delves into the specifics of their concerns and the broader implications of this regional discord.

Understanding the Context: Trump's Gaza Policies

Before examining the Egyptian and Jordanian responses, it's crucial to understand the policies that prompted their opposition. Key elements included:

• Cutting Aid to UNRWA: The Trump administration's decision to drastically reduce funding for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) severely impacted humanitarian efforts in Gaza, already facing a dire humanitarian crisis. This move was widely condemned as exacerbating an already fragile situation.

• Recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's Capital: The controversial recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital, and the subsequent relocation of the US embassy, fueled Palestinian anger and further complicated the already tense peace process. This action was seen as undermining the prospects for a two-state solution and disregarded the Palestinian claims to East Jerusalem.

• Pressure on Palestinian Authority: The Trump administration also exerted considerable pressure on the Palestinian Authority (PA), often perceived as undermining the PA's negotiating position and potentially strengthening more radical elements. This approach caused deep concern among moderate Arab nations.

Egypt's Stance: Balancing Act Between Stability and Solidarity

Egypt, sharing a border with Gaza and playing a crucial role in mediating between Israel and Hamas, adopted a cautious yet critical approach to Trump's policies. While maintaining its close ties with the US, Egypt voiced strong reservations:

Concerns of Egypt:

• Humanitarian Catastrophe: Egypt was deeply concerned about the humanitarian consequences of the aid cuts to UNRWA, fearing increased instability and potential for further conflict. The influx of refugees into Egypt was also a major concern.

• Regional Instability: Egypt worried that Trump's policies would destabilize the region, potentially fueling extremism and impacting its own national security interests. A volatile Gaza poses a direct threat to Egypt's stability.

• Peace Process Undermined: Egypt actively participates in peace efforts and viewed Trump's policies as detrimental to any prospect of a lasting peace between Israel and Palestine. The actions were seen as significantly undermining the two-state solution.

Jordan's Position: Guardian of Holy Sites and Regional Peace

Jordan, the custodian of Islamic holy sites in Jerusalem, reacted strongly to Trump's policies, particularly the Jerusalem declaration. Its concerns mirrored those of Egypt but with an added layer of religious and historical significance:

Concerns of Jordan:

• Religious Sensitivity: The recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital was a deeply sensitive issue for Jordan, given its custodianship of Al-Aqsa Mosque and its role as a guardian of Islamic holy sites.

• Regional Peace: Similar to Egypt, Jordan viewed Trump's policies as a major impediment to achieving lasting peace in the region. They expressed concern about escalating tensions and the potential for wider conflict.

• Palestinian Rights: Jordan emphasized its unwavering commitment to the Palestinian cause and the need for a just and lasting solution based on international law and the two-state solution.

The Broader Implications: A Regional Shift?

The united opposition of Egypt and Jordan to key aspects of Trump's Gaza policies highlights a growing divergence of views between certain Arab nations and the US administration regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This divergence carries significant geopolitical implications:

• Regional Alliances: It might signal a shift in regional alliances and dynamics, potentially strengthening cooperation between Egypt and Jordan on issues relating to Palestine.

• International Pressure: The unified stance from influential regional players like Egypt and Jordan put further international pressure on the US administration to reconsider its approach.

• Future of the Peace Process: The actions raised significant doubts about the feasibility of achieving a lasting peace based on the two-state solution, highlighting the need for a renewed and inclusive approach to the conflict.

The combined opposition of Egypt and Jordan to certain aspects of Trump's Gaza policies underlines a critical moment in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the wider Middle East. Their shared concerns highlight the profound humanitarian, political, and religious implications of these policies, prompting a reassessment of regional dynamics and strategies for peace. The future of the region will likely depend on a renewed commitment to diplomacy, a comprehensive approach to resolving the underlying issues, and a recognition of the legitimate concerns of all parties involved.

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