Jordan’s King Abdullah II Responds to Trump’s Gaza Peace Proposal

King Abdullah II of Jordan has expressed cautious support for a new peace initiative proposed by former U.S. President Donald Trump, aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The king noted that several aspects of Trump’s plan “align with what has been agreed upon” in previous discussions, although he refrained from disclosing specific details of the proposal.

On March 12, 2024, Trump presented a 21-point plan to Arab and Muslim leaders. This proposal seeks to exclude Hamas from any future governance in Gaza and emphasizes a framework for lasting peace in the region. Among its key points, the plan reportedly includes a commitment from the United States that Israel will not annex the occupied West Bank and anticipates military contributions from Arab and Muslim nations to maintain security in the area.

The Jordanian state news agency reported King Abdullah’s comments, highlighting the importance of regional cooperation and dialogue in addressing the complexities of the Gaza conflict. As tensions remain high, the king’s endorsement reflects a strategic position that aims to foster unity among neighboring countries.

Trump is scheduled to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on March 18, 2024, to discuss the plan further. This meeting could significantly influence the trajectory of the peace process and the role of regional powers in promoting stability.

Jordan, which shares a border with both Israel and the Palestinian territories, has a vested interest in the peace efforts. The kingdom has long been a mediator in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and continues to advocate for a two-state solution, which many see as the most viable path to peace.

As the world watches closely, the response to Trump’s initiative will likely shape diplomatic relations in the Middle East. The involvement of Arab and Muslim states, as outlined in the proposal, could be pivotal in shifting the dynamics of the conflict and fostering an environment conducive to peace.

Jordan’s cautious optimism reflects a broader hope for resolution in a region often marked by strife. King Abdullah’s support for diplomatic initiatives underscores the importance of collaboration among nations in addressing shared challenges.