The Impact of U.S. President Trump’s Middle East Peace Plan on Jordan and Palestinians

Abstract

Objectives: This study aims to assess how a more pro-Israeli stance from the U.S. can potentially harm Jordanian interests and relations, and pose a challenge in the region. Methods: The qualitative approach and the case study were applied, as well as extensive investigation and examination of relevant resources published in journal articles, newspapers, reports, press releases, and TV interviews. Results: The study found that Trump’s plan affects Jordan, as it contradicts with the priority in Jordan’s national interests which lies in the question of Palestine, supporting the two-state solution, and the creation of a viable Palestinian state. Since Trump’s initiative does not include a viable Palestinian state and removes the two-state solution from the peace process, it poses significant challenges to Jordan’s national security, economy, and role in Jerusalem, and implementing it will cause further conflict; impacting Jordan’s interests. Ignoring Jordan’s special role as the custodian of Jerusalem’s Islamic and Christian holy sites, will complicate and negatively impact Jordanian - American and Jordanian-Israeli relations. Conclusions: The study recommends the need of rebuilding trust between Jordan and the U.S, as they enjoy close security cooperation and strategic relationship. It is expected that Biden’s administration will seek conflict management with low interest, instead of conflict resolution. Jordan shall convince Arab leaders normalizing relations with Israel that resolving the Palestine issue is the most important, and it will not give up its historic role in Jerusalem.