Rubio, Jordan’s King Abdullah discuss Gaza cease-fire after Trump’s resettlement comments
US Senator Marco Rubio testifies before a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing on his nomination to be Secretary of State, on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, on Jan. 15, 2025. (AFP Photo)
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with Jordan’s King Abdullah on Monday, two days after President Donald Trump suggested that Jordan and Egypt should take in more Palestinians from Gaza, according to a State Department statement.
Why it matters
President Trump’s comments about “cleaning out” Gaza have revived long-standing Palestinian fears of permanent displacement.
Both Jordan and Egypt pushed back against the suggestion over the weekend, emphasizing the need for a solution that doesn’t uproot Palestinians from their homeland.
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to escalate, with tens of thousands killed and conditions deteriorating rapidly.
Key details
- The State Department said Rubio and King Abdullah discussed implementing the Gaza ceasefire, releasing hostages, and building a pathway to regional security and stability. The statement did not reference Trump’s remarks.
- Rubio expressed gratitude for Jordan’s support of the cease-fire and its role in facilitating humanitarian aid through the Jordan Corridor.
