King Abdullah of Jordan has voiced serious concerns about any international military force being sent to Gaza under the new peace plan, saying no country would want to be responsible for “enforcing” peace there.
Speaking about the proposal, which calls for Arab and international partners to help train Palestinian police forces and stabilize Gaza, the King said peacekeeping is acceptable — but peace enforcement is not.
“What matters is the mission’s purpose,” he said. “If it’s truly peacekeeping, then countries can help train and support local police. But if it’s about running armed patrols in Gaza, that’s not something anyone will want to do.”
He added that Jordan and Egypt are ready to train Palestinian security personnel but ruled out sending Jordanian troops into Gaza, noting the country’s deep political and emotional ties to the Palestinian people. Over half of Jordan’s population has Palestinian roots, and the country has long hosted millions of refugees from past conflicts.
When asked whether he trusts Hamas to give up political control of Gaza, the King said he relies on assurances from mediating nations like Qatar and Egypt. “They’re optimistic,” he said. “And if we don’t find a future for both Palestinians and Israelis, we’re doomed.”
The King has been directly involved in humanitarian efforts, including flying over Gaza to drop aid and helping evacuate children wounded in the conflict. More than 250 children, many seriously injured, have been brought to Jordan for medical treatment. Thousands more are still waiting for evacuation.
Queen Rania, who is of Palestinian descent, expressed heartbreak over the prolonged suffering in Gaza. “For two years, parents have watched their children suffer — terrified, hungry, powerless — while the world stood by,” she said.
She praised the recent ceasefire agreement, noting that pressure on Israel helped make it happen. “It took real diplomatic strength to get both sides to pause. For that, we’re grateful,” she said.
Despite the devastation, the Queen said she still believes in peace. “It’s not naïve to hope,” she said. “It’s an act of courage. Choosing hope is hard — but it’s the only path that doesn’t betray our shared humanity.”
The conflict has taken a staggering toll. Tens of thousands have been killed in Gaza since the fighting began, following a deadly Hamas attack on Israel. Though ceasefire and prisoner exchanges have brought some relief, both sides remain wary, and many families are still waiting for word about missing loved ones.
For King Abdullah and Queen Rania, the message is clear: peace will only last if it’s built on justice, dignity, and humanity for all.