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Jordan News
5 days ago
- Politics
- Jordan News
Al-Eisawi: Jordan, Guided by the Wisdom and Vision of the King, Stands Firm in the Face of Challenges - Jordan News
Chief of the Royal Hashemite Court, Yousef Hassan Al-Eisawi, affirmed that under the leadership of His Majesty King Abdullah II, Jordan confidently forges its path into the future, building on over a century of national progress, reform, and modernization. اضافة اعلان During a meeting on Saturday with a delegation from the Bani Amer tribe at the Royal Hashemite Court, Al-Eisawi stressed that despite regional and global challenges and transformations, Jordan continues its reform and development journey, guided by a royal vision that places the citizen at the center of development efforts. He reiterated that support for the Palestinian people remains at the forefront of Jordan's priorities, affirming that the Palestinian cause has never left the heart of the Jordanian leadership or people. His Majesty continues to defend the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people at all international platforms. Al-Eisawi also highlighted Jordan's ongoing historic role in safeguarding Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem, under the Hashemite custodianship, in addition to continued field support for the people of Gaza through medical, humanitarian, and relief efforts. He added that Jordan, with the awareness of its people, has become a model of turning challenges into opportunities, drawing strength from national unity and from the efficiency of its institutions, particularly the Jordan Armed Forces – Arab Army and the security agencies. Al-Eisawi concluded by affirming Jordan's belief that 'the future is not granted but built,' and that the nation's advancement depends on the dedication of its people. He called on all to work together in a spirit of responsibility and loyalty to future generations, preserving Jordan's achievements and national path. Speakers at the meeting expressed pride in King Abdullah II's leadership, stating that the Hashemites carry the message of the Great Arab Revolt, and are the guardians of Jerusalem's holy sites, with religious and historical legitimacy. They described the relationship between the Jordanian people and the Hashemite leadership as one of soul and body, a bond of loyalty that remains unbroken. They emphasized that His Majesty is the voice of Arab conscience, a true defender of just causes, especially the Palestinian issue, and they expressed full confidence in his continued efforts to uphold justice and values. The speakers declared their absolute support and unwavering loyalty to the Hashemite leadership, pledging to remain faithful soldiers behind King Abdullah II and Crown Prince Hussein, drawing inspiration from the King's vision for reform and nation-building. They stressed the importance of defending the nation's unity, security, and stability. They described Jordan as the great national home for all Jordanians, with the Hashemite banner as their unifying symbol, and affirmed that the Jordanian state represents their shared project and the future of their children. Serving the homeland is a honor, they said, and defending it is a duty that allows for no hesitation. They also reaffirmed their commitment to the enduring bond between Jordanians and their Hashemite leadership, a commitment rooted in historical trust and loyalty, especially amid today's regional pressures and challenges. Speakers praised the wisdom and leadership of the Hashemites, noting their continued success in steering Jordan to safety regardless of circumstances. They stressed the need for real and active engagement in the paths of political, economic, and administrative modernization launched by the King, which serve as a roadmap for a stronger, more stable, and prosperous future. One speaker highlighted that the Hashemites' role in carrying the trust of leadership is deeply rooted in history, tracing their lineage back to Hashim ibn Abd Manaf, who was known for his generosity—breaking bread and serving meat to pilgrims at the Kaaba, a legacy from which the name 'Hashim' derives. He cited the Prophetic Hadith: 'Indeed, Allah chose Kinanah from among the children of Isma'il, and He chose Quraysh from among Kinanah, and He chose Banu Hashim from among Quraysh, and He chose me from among Banu Hashim.' This, he noted, reinforces the religious and historical legitimacy of the Hashemite leadership, entrusting them with the responsibility to serve the Ummah and protect its sacred sites, carrying forward a legacy that has endured across generations.
MTV Lebanon
09-07-2025
- Politics
- MTV Lebanon
Jordan resumes aid convoys to Palestinians in Gaza as conditions deteriorate
Jordan on Wednesday resumed the dispatch of relief convoys to the besieged and war-torn Gaza Strip after months of an Israeli blockade that hindered humanitarian aid from reaching the Palestinian coastal enclave. The Jordan Hashemite Charity Organization sent 40 trucks loaded with basic food supplies into Gaza as part of Amman's humanitarian efforts to support Palestinians. The initiative was in collaboration with the World Food Programme and the Jordanian armed forces. The aid and food will be distributed in northern Gaza to ensure it reaches the most affected families and supports Palestinians as humanitarian and living conditions continue to deteriorate due to Israeli attacks since late 2023. Hussein Shibli, the secretary-general of JHCO, said the resumption of convoys highlights Jordan's commitment under King Abdullah II to support Palestinians. Jordan collaborated with the WFP to deliver a mobile bakery that supplied thousands of loaves of bread daily to residents in northern Gaza. Shibli said that cooperation with the WFP included projects for distributing meals and clean water, because infrastructure was severely damaged during Israeli bombings. Jordan was among the first countries to conduct airlift missions in the early days of the war, delivering relief to Gaza. More than 56,000 Palestinians have reportedly been killed in Israeli strikes on Gaza, which have been described as genocide by human rights groups and several heads of state.
Roya News
09-07-2025
- Politics
- Roya News
Jordan resumes aid convoys to Gaza
The Jordan Hashemite Charity Organization (JHCO), in coordination with the Jordanian Armed Forces, resumed sending aid convoys to the Gaza Strip today, following royal directives. In a statement released Wednesday, the JHCO announced that a 40-truck convoy carrying essential food supplies crossed into Gaza. This effort, conducted in cooperation with the World Food Program (WFP), is part of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan's ongoing humanitarian initiatives to support the people in the Strip. The aid will be distributed in northern Gaza to ensure food assistance reaches the most affected families, in coordination with local partners within the territory. Hussein Al-Shibli, Secretary-General of the JHCO, said the return of the convoys underscores Jordan's commitment, under the leadership of King Abdullah II, to stand with the Palestinian people. Al-Shibli emphasized the importance of cooperation with the WFP in enhancing food security in Gaza. He noted that the JHCO has been working daily to implement food projects within the Strip, including operating bakeries, soup kitchens, and distributing food and clean water. The JHCO continues to coordinate its efforts with the Jordanian Armed Forces-Arab Army and international organizations to ensure the continuous delivery of relief aid aligns with on-the-ground needs, aiming to alleviate the suffering of those in the Strip.
Irish Examiner
06-07-2025
- Politics
- Irish Examiner
Letters to the Editor: Marches show Palestinians that we have not forgotten them
The marches for peace may seem pointless to some observers, but they show the people of Gaza they are not forgotten and to put moral pressure on governments to help end the out-of-control war by Israel's forces on a defenceless 2.2m population; the key word here is 'defenceless'. And it's fewer than 2.2m Palestinians now as no one can say for sure how many unarmed civilians have been killed by Israel's missiles, drone bombs, tank rocket fire, and shootings by Israel's military. The current estimate is 55,000 people dead with far more injured, some with limbs amputated. Many are homeless and many lie dead under bombed buildings. On May 29, volunteers near the Houses of Parliament in Westminster read out names of 16,000 children killed in the war in Gaza. It took 18 hours — 300 names were read out by each volunteer. It was to also highlight the starving children and the indiscriminate bombing in Gaza. On June 7, 300,000 people marched in Rome. They believe Italy's government has also been silent on the war in Gaza. One of their banners read: 'Stop the massacre, stop complicity.' On June 15, The Hague in the Netherlands saw a march of 150,000 people; 100,000 people marched in Brussels, Belgium. The EU is not united in taking action against Israel's horror war in Gaza. EU countries such as Ireland, Norway, and Spain speak out independently. The founders of the ECSC in 1951, later renamed the EEC and then the EU in 1993 worked for economic co-operation for peace in Europe after the Second World War. They are long gone but I hope they would want the EU to be a strong voice for a tormented population in Gaza from a war aimed now very much to possibly push them out of Gaza where they have lived legally for generations, recognised by the UN, and is their home. We hope Hamas will return the remaining hostages taken from Israel in October 2023, some of them are dead, to their families. Hamas needs to show humanity too. On June 17, King Abdullah II of Jordan said of Gaza to the European Parliament: 'If our global community fails to act decisively, we become complicit in rewriting what it means to be human.' Mary Sullivan, College Rd, Cork Parking at Páirc Uí Caoimh Cars, cars, and more cars — yet still no bicycle parking. After years of planning conditions, countless requests, petitions, and patient waiting, it is astonishing that Páirc Uí Chaoimh remains utterly devoid of dedicated spaces for bicycles. Meanwhile, efforts to accommodate motor vehicles continue unchallenged. During a recent visit to a football match with the stadium only half filled, I saw hundreds of bicycles chained to fences, railings, and anything remotely secure. This wasn't an isolated scene — it was a clear sign of public demand. People of all ages want to cycle to the grounds, but the infrastructure simply isn't there to support it. Why does the board and stadium management persist in ignoring this? The appetite for sustainable travel is real. It's time the powers that be took action. Harry Murphy, Blackrock Rd, Cork Unfair taxation The State taxes persons and companies to raise the funds to pay for the services it supplies for the benefit of everyone. Ideally, the proportion of tax on persons and on businesses is fair and balanced. But when large corporations or vested interests lobby the government and get special contracts, or favourable grants or special deals, it's the shareholders, company directors, and princes of industry who reap the benefits in the excess profits that are made by those companies and shareholders. But those grants, special deals and favourable terms must be paid for from somewhere. That somewhere is increased taxes on, you guessed it, Joe and Mary Taxpayer. So the system is designed (rigged) to enrich the already rich at the expense of the poor and ordinary Joe and Mary who suffer on with fewer services, fewer opportunities, and more struggles against systems that don't work for them. The social contract whereby the State guarantees equal opportunity for all and a fair sharing out of the State's resources and services is broken, evidenced by the lack of adequate housing, healthcare, education, recreation, and other services. Joe and Mary get the opportunity to change the system every five years. Use it. Kevin T Finn, Mitchelstown, Co Cork Shame on the West I watched Gaza: Doctors Under Attack, the BBC commissioned but never shown documentary that Channel 4 more bravely broadcast last week. It is hard to understand why the BBC didn't broadcast it. It is beyond inexplicable to me and countless millions of ordinary people of goodwill globally how Netanyahu's regime is quite literally getting away with murder on a large scale in full view of the world. But we have known from quite early on after the terrible massacre of October 7, 2023, that Israel's vengeance against innocent Gazans, including humanitarian workers, would be massively disproportionate and sanctioned by the global powers. We cannot claim ignorance. It is even more incredible to those of us horrified by the plight of the Gazans that, with a few exceptions including Ireland, leaders and governments of the so called advanced nations are doing absolutely nothing to stop the suffering of the Palestinians of Gaza and the West Bank, and in many instances are actively supporting Israel militarily and morally. There is a strong sense that governments are not properly reflecting the humanitarian concerns of their voters for Gazan suffering, in the US, in Britain, and across the EU. The Middle East is on the doorstep of Europe and as the US is currently a political basket case it is even more incumbent on Europe to rigorously respond to the overwhelming humanitarian needs of the people of Gaza. And yet Ursula von der Leyen and Kaja Kallas have disgracefully had no problem on several occasions in beating a wimpish path to the Israelis without a mandate from the democratic structures of the EU, and yet only feel able to offer tepid statements of how 'abhorrent and unbearable' the humanitarian suffering in Gaza is without actually condemning the perpetrators of this suffering — the Netanyahu regime. This is so ineffectual and so shameful. Why are officially designated international hospital ships not lining up in the Mediterranean to offer humanitarian and medical aid to the decimated people of Gaza and why is Israel not being forced to back down by the use of diplomatic strong arm methods? Shame shame on the 'civilised' Western powers. Cynthia Carroll, Newport, Co Tipperary Br Kevin Crowley Ireland is a much poorer place following the death of Brother Kevin Crowley. A gentle gentleman who practised what he preached, but was never preachy. Those who queued outside his soup kitchen were fed, regardless of their age, religion, or colour. I hope there is a special place in the hereafter for special souls like him. Next time I am asked what is 'Irishness', I'll just refer them to the life of Br Kevin — RIP. Seán Kelly, Tramore, Co Waterford Sinister removal of President's portrait The removal of a portrait of President Michael D Higgins from Belfast City Hall by Tracy Kelly, the DUP lord mayor, just days before the annual 'Eleventh Night' bonfires, is a sinister development. As we approach the Orange Order marching season and bonfires which are an integral part of loyalist culture, nationalist society is forced to endure the sectarian burning of Irish flags and posters of nationalist political representatives. Many of these bonfires contain vast imitation funeral pyres adorned with nationalist and republican effigies of people who were voted for, in the main, by Catholics. We are told that these bonfires are inclusive celebrations of loyalist culture where everyone is welcome and respected. This 'respect' does not appear to include the thousands who vote for the politicians whose images, names, and symbols are consumed in numerous celebratory conflagrations. It would be most regrettable if images of President Higgins were to adorn these bonfires as a result of the decision to remove his portrait. Were Jewish, Muslim, or black people's representatives so depicted, it would rightfully be called racist. Why is it acceptable for nationalist representatives to be so depicted? In the context of an explicitly Protestant celebration it is sectarian. Incredibly, many grand officers of the Orange Order are also Church of Ireland ministers. If the Orange Order and the Church of Ireland cannot come out and account for itself, are there ordinary members not afraid to openly protest this cancerous scandal? Tom Cooper, Pearse St, Dublin 2
Jordan News
03-07-2025
- Politics
- Jordan News
Why Not Establish a National Council for Soft Power in Jordan? - Jordan News
Despite limited resources and geographic challenges, Jordan has historically managed to carve out a prominent regional and international role—thanks largely to its rich reserves of soft power, which extend beyond the traditional metrics of influence. Its moderate foreign policy, Hashemite legitimacy, humanitarian leadership, and internal stability have all contributed to Jordan's image as a rational, peace-making nation and a moral anchor in times of conflict and division. اضافة اعلان The Hashemite leadership, particularly King Abdullah II, has played a central role in this orientation, championing a model of ethical and calm diplomacy. Through initiatives such as the Amman Message, Jordan has also presented an advanced model of interfaith dialogue and cultural rapprochement. In the same vein, Jordan has set an exemplary model of security and political stability in a turbulent environment, making it a destination for international conferences and a headquarters for UN and regional organizations. Its academic and media institutions have also contributed to building a respectable public image, thanks to its graduates and media and intellectual talents, who have played a role in marketing the Jordanian story abroad with professionalism and poise. One of the most striking features of Jordan's soft power is its longstanding humanitarian role. For decades, the country has welcomed refugees from Palestine, Iraq, Syria, and Yemen—despite facing significant economic pressure. This ethical stance, though costly internally, has earned Jordan rare moral and political credibility on the world stage. Jordan's rich religious and cultural heritage also plays a key role in its soft power toolkit. Sites like the Baptism Site, Petra, Jerash, and the shrines of the Prophet's companions serve as cultural and spiritual touchstones that foster civilizational dialogue and attract religious and cultural tourism. On the security front, the Jordanian Armed Forces' participation in international peacekeeping, humanitarian, and medical missions has further added a new dimension to its soft power—presenting the country not as a source of conflict, but as a contributor to its resolution. Yet, despite this impressive reservoir of soft power, there is still a pressing need for a more systematic and strategic activation of these assets. This calls for the establishment of a national soft power council or authority—regardless of its exact name or structure—that would report directly to the Prime Minister's Office, or fall under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the Ministry of Information. This would be in line with successful models seen in countries like the UAE and Qatar, which recognized early on that true, lasting influence is not solely built on hard power but also on the strength of a nation's image and cultural capital. Such a council would be tasked with developing a comprehensive national soft power strategy encompassing all sectors in which Jordan holds competitive advantage—such as culture, arts, education, scientific research, media, public diplomacy, national identity, tourism, the economy, and the creative industries. Jordan is rich in natural, historical, and human assets that can exert deep influence if mobilized within a long-term strategic vision. The council should also be responsible for reviewing all media, cultural, and educational policies and regulations that may impact the country's external image—positively or negatively. This includes refining public messaging and enhancing the promotion of Jordan's national narrative. A key part of the council's mandate would be to maintain continuous coordination with Jordanian diplomatic missions, universities, cultural centers, and media outlets both domestically and abroad to unify messaging and reinforce a positive, accurate representation of Jordan on every platform. Additionally, the council should focus on building sustainable communication channels with influential global communities, particularly in strategic regions and major international capitals. This should be done through non-traditional tools that rely on cultural, human, and popular influence, moving from official representation to a more social, intellectual, and emotional presence. Establishing such a council is no longer a luxury or an optional bureaucratic reform—it is a national imperative, dictated by the historical moment Jordan and the region are facing. In today's world, influence is no longer wielded solely through weapons or economic might, but through a country's reputation, moral capital, and cultural legitimacy. Jordan—by virtue of its geographic uniqueness, historical depth, and internationally respected leadership—has the potential to secure a leading position in the evolving map of soft power influence. What Jordan needs is not to invent new tools of influence, but to strategically harness its existing moral, historical, political, and human wealth. These resources must be organized under a unified vision that understands true influence is not imposed—but inspired. So the question remains: Will we soon witness the birth of a national council for soft power in Jordan?
