AGP Executive Report

Jordan-EU Human Rights: EU Special Representative for Human Rights Kaja Ollongren met Jordanian officials, media and civil society, calling Amman a trusted EU partner and highlighting long-running cooperation. Regional Security: Prime Minister Jaafar Hassan told Iraq’s Parliament Speaker that Iraq’s security is inseparable from Jordan’s, amid worries over drones and armed groups operating beyond Iraqi state control. Hashemite Custodianship: Columnist Mohammad Abu Rumman warned that Jerusalem and Al-Aqsa face renewed threats to the status quo, linking them to Israeli actions and possible US-Israeli plans. King’s Economic Message: King Abdullah met economic figures, stressing Jordan’s ability to withstand crises and urging local participation in Economic Modernisation Vision projects. Airspace Monitoring: Jordan’s Civil Aviation Regulatory Commission said air traffic is normal while authorities monitor regional escalation; travelers were urged to check with airlines. Energy & Resources Debate: Energy expert Mubarak Al-Tahrawi argued Jordan’s gas, oil shale and minerals remain underdeveloped and could reshape revenues if exploration institutions are rebuilt. Tech & Security: Meta asked a US court to hold NSO Group in contempt, saying a WhatsApp-targeting phishing campaign mainly hit users in Jordan and Lebanon.

Regional Security & Airspace: Jordan’s Public Security Directorate activated air-raid sirens after reports of missiles linked to the Iran-Israel escalation, with Government Spokesperson Mohammad Momani saying Jordan’s airspace was breached and warning the Kingdom “will not allow any party to use the Kingdom as a battleground.” Diplomatic Ties (Amman-Baghdad): Prime Minister Jaafar Hassan told Iraqi Parliament Speaker Heit al-Halbousi that Iraq’s security is a pillar of Jordan’s stability, stressing concerns over drones and armed groups operating beyond state control. Jerusalem & Holy Sites: Jordanian columnists warned that moves around Al-Aqsa and the West Bank could undermine Hashemite custodianship, arguing that “on-the-ground” Israeli policies matter more than denials. Energy & Resources: An energy expert said Jordan has major untapped gas, oil shale, and mineral potential, arguing that past institutional weakening slowed exploration and development. Humanitarian/Conflict Resolution: Jordan featured coverage of Yemen’s UN-brokered prisoner release deal, described as the largest since the war began. World Cup Context: With the 48-team tournament approaching, coverage highlighted the scale of matches and player rosters, alongside a separate report of a shooting near England’s World Cup base camp in Kansas City.

Jordan-Iraq Ties: Prime Minister Jafar Hassan met Iraq’s Parliament Speaker Haibat Al-Halbousi, reaffirming Amman-Baghdad cooperation and stressing that Iraq’s security is “integral” to Jordan and the region, with talks also covering energy, electricity, and trade. Royal Diplomacy: King Abdullah received the same Iraqi speaker, calling for stronger efforts to consolidate a US-Iran ceasefire and warning against using regional turmoil to impose new facts on the ground in Jerusalem, the West Bank, and Gaza. Jerusalem Focus on Yawm Al Naksa: As Jordanians mark Yawm Al Naksa, coverage highlights renewed regional concern over Israeli plans to alter realities in Jerusalem and disputes over US involvement in Al-Aqsa custodianship. Gulf Tensions & Iran War: Pakistan’s interior minister carried a “special letter” to Iran’s supreme leader amid renewed Gulf security incidents, with Jordan among states voicing concern. Local Economy & Skills: Joramco Academy opened applications for its aircraft maintenance programme, offering a four-year hybrid track leading to internationally recognized EASA/CARC licenses. Water Enforcement: Jordan’s Water Authority seized an illegal drilling rig in Ma’an and backfilled the unauthorized well as part of tighter water-resource inspections.

Gulf Diplomacy & Security: Saudi Arabia led Arab condemnation of Iran’s missile and drone attacks on Bahrain and Kuwait, with Jordan also issuing a formal condemnation and reaffirming solidarity with both states. Regional Conflict: Israeli strikes in Lebanon killed at least 10 people, including high-ranking soldiers, as Lebanon’s leadership condemned the attacks as violations of sovereignty. Jordanian Culture: Minister of Culture Mustafa Rawashdeh inspected Jerash ahead of the 40th Jerash Festival, urging tighter logistical and technical preparations and highlighting the event’s role in projecting Jordan’s heritage regionally and internationally. Humanitarian Aid: Qatar Red Crescent Society’s Eid Al-Adha Sacrifice Campaign reached 247,344 beneficiaries across Qatar and 13 countries, including Jordan and Palestine/Gaza. Markets & Finance: Amman and Abu Dhabi stock exchanges moved ahead with an electronic link via Tabadul to boost liquidity and cross-market connectivity. World Cup Build-Up: England beat New Zealand 1-0 in a warm-up in Tampa with Harry Kane scoring, while Australia drew Switzerland 1-1 in San Diego ahead of the tournament.

Gulf Diplomacy: Jordan’s Foreign Ministry condemned Iran’s missile and drone attacks on Bahrain and Kuwait as a “flagrant” breach of sovereignty and the UN Charter, reaffirming Amman’s solidarity with the two Gulf states and warning against dangerous escalation. Tourism & Travel Policy: Jordan’s Tourism Ministry welcomed the UK’s updated travel advisory, saying reclassifying most of the country as safe will boost confidence and support recovery in the tourism sector. Regional Security Context: The U.S. said it intercepted Iranian missiles and drones aimed toward the Strait of Hormuz, Bahrain and Kuwait, while Bahrain and Kuwait reported no injuries but some material damage. Amman Trade & Business: The Amman Chamber of Commerce reported a 24.1% rise in certificates of origin value to 624 million dinars in the first five months of 2026, with exports routed mainly through the UAE, Syria and Iraq. Humanitarian/Conflict Update: In the occupied West Bank, Palestinian health officials said Israeli forces killed a seven-month-old baby after firing at a family vehicle near Hebron, with the parents also reported wounded.

Gulf Security: Kuwait and Bahrain reported fresh missile and drone attacks, with air defenses intercepting incoming projectiles as tensions between Washington and Tehran remain high. Regional Diplomacy: The UN Human Rights Council will review the humanitarian, legal, and security fallout of Iran’s attacks on Bahrain and other Gulf states, including impacts on civilians and regional stability. Nuclear Safety: At an IAEA meeting, Qatar reiterated solidarity with the UAE after the Barakah nuclear plant attack, calling it a violation of international law and nuclear safety principles. US Military Posture: CENTCOM commander Admiral Brad Cooper visited Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, and Jordan to meet senior officials and U.S. troops, underscoring continued defense coordination and regional stability efforts. Jordan-EU/Finance Link: Jordan and the Amman Stock Exchange moved ahead with an electronic trading link with Abu Dhabi via Tabadul, aiming to deepen financial ties and market liquidity. Domestic Policy (Jordan): Jordan suspended foreign labor recruitment across most sectors as unemployment reportedly fell to 16%, signaling a shift in workforce policy.

Judicial Accountability in France: France’s government launched a review after the suspected killing of 11-year-old Lyhanna, with President Emmanuel Macron calling it “unacceptable” and citing “dysfunction” in how prior child-abuse allegations against the main suspect were handled. Regional Security & Energy: Iraq’s oil exports fell to about 329,000 bpd in May—around 10% of pre-crisis levels—after Strait of Hormuz restrictions since late February disrupted shipments. Nuclear Safety Alarm: The IAEA warned that a drone attack on the UAE’s Barakah plant was a “serious compromise of nuclear safety,” calling attacks on peaceful nuclear facilities a “no-go.” Jordan-Linked Mobility: British Airways suspended flights to Amman (alongside several regional hubs) due to Middle East airspace restrictions, with cancellations running until October. Gulf Security Cooperation: Kuwait and Jordan discussed expanding security and military cooperation in high-level meetings, as regional tensions continue to shape policy priorities.

Jordan–Gulf Diplomacy: Jordan’s Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi urged solidifying the Lebanon ceasefire and keeping weapons under state control, while calling for Gaza stability and humanitarian access, in talks with Dutch FM Tom Berendsen; both sides also stressed respect for Jerusalem’s holy sites under Hashemite Custodianship. Regional Security: Kuwait and Jordan discussed expanding security and military cooperation amid ongoing Iran-related tensions, as the wider region watches escalation risks. Economic Modernization: The Association of Banks in Jordan (ABJ) CEO Dr. Maher Al Mahrouq told Qatar’s news agency that green economy investment—renewables, sustainable transport, circular economy and low-emission infrastructure—fits Jordan’s Economic Modernization Vision 2023–2033, with the Central Bank of Jordan backing a regulatory environment for green finance. Humanitarian Aid: Jordan dispatched a sixth relief convoy to Lebanon carrying 28 trucks of humanitarian assistance, underscoring continued support as the conflict strains services. Governance & Institutions: OECD/INTOSAI reporting highlighted Jordan’s experience strengthening audit institution independence, pointing to ongoing reforms in public oversight.

Jordan’s Emergency Alerts: Globitel announced nationwide deployment of Jordan’s Cell Broadcast Early Warning System with Zain Jordan, Orange Jordan and Umniah, enabling geo-targeted official messages to phones within seconds during emergencies. World Cup Focus (Jordan): Jordan’s debut at FIFA World Cup 2026 is set: Al Nashama open Group J on 16 June vs Austria, then face Algeria and Argentina, with coach Jamal Sellami stressing the value of facing top sides including Messi’s Argentina. Regional Diplomacy: Jordan’s foreign-policy spotlight continues as Saudi and Jordanian foreign ministers discussed joint efforts to restore regional security, amid wider condemnation of attacks in the Gulf. Appointments & Public Sector: An “Appointments – June 4, 2026” update was published, alongside local notices including a job fair pop-up in Rainier and other community hiring moves. International Media: Ukrinform launched an Arabic-language version of its website, aiming to counter disinformation for a large Arabic-speaking audience.

West Bank Settlements: Jordan condemned Israel’s approval of 2,126 new settler units in the occupied West Bank, calling it a “blatant violation of international law” and a setback to the two-state solution. Regional Diplomacy: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi condemned Iran’s attacks on Bahrain and Kuwait in separate calls, reaffirming Jordan’s solidarity and condolences after strikes hit civilian facilities, including Kuwait International Airport. World Cup Governance: With Jordan’s World Cup debut approaching, Prime Minister Jafar Hassan ordered public institutions to start work at 10:00am on match days (June 17, 23, 28) to help citizens follow early-morning kick-offs. Water Security: Water Minister Raed Abu Saud warned the National Conveyance Project is urgent but not a full fix, warning of worsening summer shortages and tanker price spikes if implementation slips. Transport Connectivity: Türkiye plans to modernise the Hejaz Railway and extend it toward Oman, using the Aleppo–Damascus–Jordan network as an initial stage to build an alternative trade route.

Jordan-Iran Tensions: Jordan condemned Iranian missile and drone attacks on Kuwait and Bahrain, calling them a violation of sovereignty and the UN Charter, and reiterated solidarity with both Gulf states. Trade & Labor Pressure: The US proposed additional duties on imports from countries including Bangladesh under forced-labour rules, signaling tougher enforcement under Section 301. Amman Urban Mobility: Amman Vision for Investment and Development (AVID) launched a smart parking project with private partners, aiming for a unified digital system covering on-street and off-street spaces and about 5,600 smart bays by 2031. Industrial Growth Push: Jordan plans to expand the Chinese industrial complex in Al-Qatrana by 3 million sqm, with incentives and streamlined procedures to attract new investment. Economic Signals: Jordan’s pharmaceutical exports rose 17.6% in Q1 2026, while vehicle clearance at Zarqa Free Zone fell 65.3% in the first five months, reflecting tighter import standards. Labor Rights Gap: Labor Watch urged changes to smart transport app laws so ride-hailing and delivery drivers are treated as employees with minimum labor and social protections.

Al-Aqsa Diplomacy: Foreign ministers from the UAE, Jordan, Türkiye, Egypt, Indonesia, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Qatar condemned Israeli settler incursions into Al-Aqsa Mosque/Al-Haram Al-Sharif, including the raising of the Israeli flag in its courtyards, calling it a violation of international law and the holy site’s historical status, while reaffirming Jordan’s Hashemite custodianship and the exclusive worship role of the compound. Regional Security & Air Travel: Reports say Iran launched missiles and drones toward Bahrain and Kuwait, with US and local air defences intercepting projectiles; airlines then cancelled or delayed some flights, including routes involving Amman. Jordan Governance: Prime Minister Jafar Hassan met the Jordan Engineers Association to discuss sector issues and how the government will use professional expertise in major water, energy, transport and infrastructure projects. World Cup Update: FIFA confirmed all 1,248 players and final squads for the 2026 tournament, with Jordan among the teams making its World Cup debut.

Industrial Push in Karak: Jordan’s PM Jafar Hassan inaugurated six Chinese-owned Jinsheng International factories in Qatraneh, aiming to build an integrated industrial complex and create about 700 jobs, with steps to designate the area as a development zone. Digital Entrepreneurship: The King Hussein Business Park (KHBP) and intaj signed an agreement to support the Virtual KHBP, a smart virtual business platform planned for launch later this year to help firms manage operations online. Maan Logistics Incentives: Hassan also announced new incentives for Rawda Industrial Area—cut electricity and land costs and operational support until the area connects to the Arab Gas Pipeline—while pushing the Aqaba-Maan land port and rail links toward key deadlines. Tourism Boost: Jordan’s Tourism Ministry says the return of low-cost airlines from July 1 should “significantly” lift arrivals, after regional disruptions tied to the Israeli-Iranian air war. Transport Disruption Watch: British Airways delayed its Dubai flights again, now pushing the restart to late October, citing ongoing Middle East instability. Airport Road Maintenance: Public Works and Housing will begin repairs on damaged sections of the Queen Alia International Airport Road, funded by a Kuwait Fund loan (about JOD 5.9m).

Jordan–UAE Capital Markets Link: Jordan Capital Market institutions and the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange have activated an electronic trading linkage between the Amman Stock Exchange and ADX via the TABADUL platform, aiming to boost liquidity and give investors access through licensed brokers. World Cup Work Arrangements: Jordan’s Labour Minister urged private employers to follow the Prime Minister’s decision to delay official working hours on days of Jordan’s World Cup final matches, with government institutions starting at 10am to help fans attend and watch. Border Security Upgrade: Jordan announced the operationalization of advanced military facilities to strengthen land border security, improve 24/7 monitoring, and curb smuggling and unauthorized infiltration. Regional Security Tensions: Iran condemned the EU over its stance on Iranian strikes, calling it hypocritical, while the wider Middle East remains tense amid Lebanon and Gaza-related escalation. Holy Land Religious Sensitivities: Coverage highlights rising anxiety among Christian communities in the Holy Land as conflict disrupts religious life and heightens fears for religious freedom.

Regional Security: Jordan condemned Iran’s “repeated” attacks on Kuwait, calling them a breach of international law and reaffirming full solidarity with Kuwait as air defences intercepted missile and drone strikes. Energy & Cost of Living: Jordan’s Fuel Pricing Committee kept most fuel prices at May levels for June while raising diesel by 60 fils per liter, citing government absorption of part of global increases and announcing continued support for LPG supplied to industry. Media Freedom: A Swedish watchdog Qurium Media Foundation warned that opaque web-scraping systems are draining resources from public-interest journalism, pointing to a major automated extraction event targeting Jordan-based ARIJ. Trade & Finance: Jordan reported Q1 2026 export growth of 1.6% to JD 2.129 billion, led by garments, potash and pharmaceuticals, and launched an electronic linkage between the Amman and Abu Dhabi stock exchanges via Tabadul to deepen Arab market integration. Governance & Economy: Jordan’s wage and pension bill rose by JD 103 million in Q1, while a separate report highlighted Jordan’s “Cancer Care Programme” as a governance benchmark.

Jordan’s Industry Push: Prime Minister Jafar Hassan inaugurated an $80m Chinese-invested sanitary ware factory in southern Jordan, with officials saying it will strengthen the industrial base, boost value-add, and support exports. Regional Security & Diplomacy: France urged an emergency UN Security Council meeting over Israel’s renewed offensive in south Lebanon, while multiple countries—including Jordan—condemned ongoing assaults and called for weapons to fall silent. Al-Aqsa Tensions: Reports said Israeli forces killed a Palestinian worker near the separation barrier while settlers stormed Al-Aqsa under police protection and raised flags near the Dome of the Rock; Jordan condemned the raid as provocative. Sports & National Identity: Australia named Cristian Volpato and Tete Yengi among two uncapped attackers in its World Cup squad after Volpato switched allegiance; Argentina also began World Cup preparations in Kansas City.