Jordan, a close ally of the United States, has been facing demonstrations that have escalated into a serious threat to the Hashemite Kingdom, with open declarations of support for the Hamas terrorist organization. The government of Jordan has been vocal in opposing Israel’s actions against Hamas, with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi stating that “Hamas is an idea and ideas do not die.” Some experts believe that King Abdullah II and his inner circle may have contributed, directly or indirectly, to the unrest that could potentially destabilize his regime. Former Israeli ambassador to Jordan, Jacob Rosen, mentioned that Jordan is walking a fine line by allowing the Muslim Brotherhood to voice their opinions but dispersing any demonstrations that may turn against the government.
Protests in Jordan have included chants in support of Hamas leader Yehya Sinwar, who is believed to be behind a deadly attack in Gaza. Experts like Walid Phares suggest that the unrest in Jordan is being orchestrated by Hamas, the Muslim Brotherhood network, and the Iranian regime, with the goal of targeting the Hashemite Kingdom. Additionally, former Jordanian minister of information, Samih Al-Maaytah, has accused Hamas leaders in Qatar of inciting the Jordanian public and trying to sow discord among Palestinian clans in the kingdom. The protests in Jordan are seen as part of a larger strategy by Iran and its allies to destabilize the region.
The fragility of Jordan’s monarchy has made it a target for past overthrow attempts. The nation’s lack of oil and gas resources, high unemployment rate, and large Palestinian population make it vulnerable to outside influence. Phares suggests that the recent protests in Jordan are part of a broader strategy to weaken the kingdom as a Western ally and spread chaos in the region. President Biden recently met with King Abdullah, where they discussed the situation in Gaza and the need for a Palestinian state. However, many Israelis view the two-state solution as unrealistic after decades of failed attempts.
The Palestinian Authority has expressed solidarity with Jordan and condemned any efforts to destabilize the kingdom. President Abbas spoke with King Abdullah and reiterated support for Jordan’s security and stability, rejecting any external interference in the country’s affairs. The Iranian threat to Jordan’s government has also been highlighted, with a pro-Iranian militia in Iraq offering to provide fighters to defend their Palestinian allies. The situation in Jordan has also raised concerns within the Palestinian Authority as external interference from Iran-aligned groups threatens to destabilize the region.
The recent unrest in Jordan and the growing support for Hamas and the Muslim Brotherhood have raised alarm bells regarding the security of the Hashemite Kingdom. Experts believe that the protests are part of a larger strategy to undermine Jordan’s stability and weaken its ties to Western allies. The role of external actors, particularly Iran, in stoking unrest in Jordan has further complicated the situation. Despite calls for a Palestinian state and peace in the region, the ongoing tensions in Jordan highlight the challenges in achieving a lasting solution to the conflict between Israel and its neighbors.
