Trump: "US Will Take Gaza"... Pressure on Jordan to Accept Gaza Residents

Trump and King Abdullah II of Jordan Hold Talks
"We Will Place Gaza Under U.S. Authority"

U.S. President Donald Trump emphasized once again the U.S. plan to take over and develop the Gaza Strip during a meeting with King Abdullah II of Jordan on the 11th (local time), stating, "We will have Gaza." He pressured King Abdullah to accept Gaza residents, citing the substantial financial support the U.S. provides to Jordan.

During the summit held at the White House that day, President Trump discussed ending the war between Israel and the Palestinian armed group Hamas, as well as post-war plans with King Abdullah.

Before the meeting, when asked by reporters who would have authority over Gaza, he replied, "The United States' authority," and revealed plans to build hotels, office buildings, and housing in the area.

President Trump said, "We have no reason to buy (Gaza)," adding, "We will have it without buying." He also claimed that developing Gaza would bring peace and jobs to the Middle East region.

Regarding the relocation of Palestinian residents within Gaza, he stated, "We may secure some land in Jordan and Egypt and other areas," urging Jordan to accept Palestinian residents from Gaza.

He also mentioned that the U.S. supports Jordan and Egypt financially. President Trump said, "We contribute a lot of money to Jordan and Egypt," adding, "We do not threaten. We are people beyond that level."

In response, King Abdullah II said, "I think we must keep in mind that Egypt and Arab countries have plans," adding, "Egypt will present a plan on how to cooperate (with President Trump's plan). Let's wait and see."

This meeting was the first face-to-face encounter with an Arab leader since President Trump revealed his plan to develop Gaza as a resort area following his summit with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the 4th. The main agenda of the meeting is expected to be Jordan's cooperation regarding the permanent relocation of Gaza residents outside the Gaza Strip. In this regard, all Middle Eastern countries except Israel are opposing the plan.