Why Are Arab Countries Wary of Palestinian Refugees?
Crossing borders from Gaza into neighboring Arab states is a herculean task for Palestinians, except for a few exempted categories. These exceptions include injured individuals and Palestinians carrying dual citizenship. The situation is such that even if Israel were to consent to the migration of Palestinians, the Arab states remain unwilling to welcome them.
Let's Explore the Reasons
The Palestinians as 'Guard Dogs'
Many Arabs see the Palestinians as safeguards against their enemies but not against their own. They believe that Palestinian refugees, like watchdogs, should intimidate their adversaries, not their own people. In simple terms, Palestinians should remain a threat to Israel, not to Arab nations.
Egyptian Fears
Egypt has its own reasons for barring Palestinians from entering its borders. Egypt is wary that Palestinians, if given the chance, might permanently leave the Gaza Strip. This fear is fueled by the possibility that Israel's extremist leaders might realize their prophecy of expelling all Palestinians. To put it in simpler terms, Egypt dreads the potential long-term consequences of accepting a large number of Palestinians.
The Pressure on Resources
The Egyptian population has surged from 70 million to 110 million over the last two decades. However, economic growth has not kept pace with the population boom. If Palestinians are allowed to enter Egypt, the Egyptian government would be required to set up new reception centers, provide housing, food, and water. Given that presidential elections are approaching, Egyptian Authoritarian ruler al-Sisi wants to preserve his safe victory by avoiding mass protests.
Jordan's Red Line
Jordan, like Egypt, denies any possibility of accepting Gaza refugees. The Jordanian King, Abdullah II, has categorically rejected Israel's proposal to establish a corridor for civilians from Gaza to the West Bank, allowing them to enter Jordan. King Abdullah II described this as a "red line" and expressed his concern about permanent Palestinian displacement from Gaza.
Last Resort Countries
Lebanon and Syria have their own challenges, making them unsuitable to accommodate Palestinian refugees. Syrian Civil War and Lebanon's already significant refugee population make it an unviable option. Wealthy Gulf nations like Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, on the other hand, prioritize the entry of affluent foreigners from the West.
Iran, a staunch supporter of the Palestinians, has no interest in accepting refugees. An influx of Palestinians would contradict Iran's goal of destabilizing Israel, as it would result in a mass exodus of Palestinians, potentially derailing Iran's strategic aim.
The Words of Worry
Arab nations, such as Egypt and Jordan, empathize with the Palestinians but fear the potential dangers of housing them. These countries are walking a tightrope between sympathizing with the Palestinians and protecting their own interests.
