White House Meeting as Trump Pushes Controversial Middle East Strategy

President Donald Trump will host Jordan’s King Abdullah II at the White House on Tuesday as he intensifies pressure on Jordan to accept refugees from Gaza—potentially on a permanent basis. The meeting comes as part of Trump’s broader, ambitious vision to reshape the Middle East.

The visit coincides with growing tensions over the fragile ceasefire in Gaza. Hamas, accusing Israel of violating the truce, has announced a pause in hostage releases. Meanwhile, Trump has urged Israel to resume military action if remaining hostages are not freed by the weekend.

Trump’s Vision: U.S. Control Over Gaza and Regional Resettlement

Trump has proposed that the U.S. take control of Gaza and transform it into “the Riviera of the Middle East.” Under his plan, Palestinians in the war-ravaged territory would be relocated to neighboring countries, with no right to return.

On Monday, Trump suggested he might use financial leverage to push Jordan and Egypt—both longtime U.S. allies and top recipients of American foreign aid—into accepting displaced Palestinians.

“Yeah, maybe. Sure, why not?” Trump told reporters when asked if he would withhold aid. “If they don’t, I would conceivably withhold aid, yes.”

However, Jordan has firmly rejected the proposal. The country, already home to more than two million Palestinians, has repeatedly voiced opposition to any forced resettlement.

Jordan and Egypt Firmly Oppose Resettlement Plan

Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi reaffirmed last week that his country’s stance remains “firm and unwavering.” Like Jordan, Egypt has also expressed strong concerns about security risks associated with absorbing large numbers of refugees, even on a temporary basis.

When pressed on how he planned to convince King Abdullah to accept Palestinians, Trump responded optimistically:

“I do think he’ll take, and I think other countries will take also. They have good hearts.”

High-Stakes Talks with Trump Administration Officials

During his visit, King Abdullah is set to meet with top Trump administration officials, including:

• Secretary of State Marco Rubio
• National Security Adviser Mike Waltz
• Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff
• Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth

He is the third foreign leader to meet with Trump in person since the president’s inauguration on January 20.

Trump’s Bold Strategy Faces Scrutiny

Trump first introduced his plan for Gaza during a press conference last week alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. While initially open to deploying U.S. troops for security, Trump ruled out using American funds for Gaza’s reconstruction, raising questions about the feasibility of his vision.

Following Trump’s remarks, Rubio and White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt clarified that the president’s intent was for Palestinians to be relocated “temporarily.” They emphasized an “interim” phase focused on clearing debris, removing unexploded ordnance, and rebuilding key infrastructure.

However, in an interview with Fox News’ Bret Baier on Monday, Trump gave a blunt answer when asked if Palestinians in Gaza would have a right to return:

“No, they wouldn’t.”

What’s Next?

With King Abdullah standing firm against Trump’s plan, the White House meeting is expected to be tense. The coming days will determine whether Trump’s strategy gains traction—or faces continued resistance from Arab allies.

Source

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