AGP Executive Report

U.S.-Iran Escalation and Jordan’s Role: The U.S. launched a second straight day of strikes on Iran, as Iran retaliated by firing at U.S. bases in Bahrain and air bases in Kuwait and Jordan, while Iran also declared the Strait of Hormuz closed—raising fresh doubts over a fragile ceasefire and the push for a deal. Diplomatic Breakthrough for De-escalation: Jordan welcomed the U.S.-Iran memorandum of understanding to end military operations and begin talks, with Amman stressing respect for sovereignty, good-neighborliness, and restoring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. Prime Minister on Health Capacity: Prime Minister Jaafar Hassan ordered full use of field hospitals and directed the reopening/acceleration of the Amman Field Hospital to ease pressure on Prince Hamzah Hospital, including emergency, ICU, and dialysis services. Aqaba Energy Infrastructure: Aqaba Development Corporation began detailed studies for a JD45 million oil derivatives pier, aiming for operations in early 2029 and easing congestion at the kingdom’s main oil pier. Energy Sector Focus: Energy Minister Saleh Kharabsheh highlighted upgrades at the Rihab power station and underscored Jordan’s role in regional electricity supply. Regional Security Messaging: Hassan told Iraqi officials that Iraq’s security is inseparable from Jordan’s, with attention on border and airspace threats and the challenge of non-state armed activity. Jerusalem Custodianship Debate: Columnist Mohammad Abu Rumman warned that reports of plans to weaken Hashemite custodianship in Jerusalem could intensify pressures around Al-Aqsa and the status quo.

U.S.-Iran Escalation and Ceasefire Talks: The U.S. began another round of strikes on Iran, saying it hit “multiple targets” after fresh Iranian fire reached Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan—again testing a fragile ceasefire. The move follows earlier U.S. action after an Army helicopter crash near the Strait of Hormuz and comes as Trump pushes for a deal. Jordan-Iraq Security Focus: Jordan’s Prime Minister told Iraq’s parliament speaker that Iraq’s security is a pillar of Jordan’s own security, with attention on border and airspace threats and the challenge of armed groups operating beyond state control. Energy and Resources Debate: An energy expert renewed calls to better develop Jordan’s gas, oil shale and minerals, arguing that past institutional weakening hurt exploration and that smarter investment could boost revenues and reduce debt. Regional Connectivity Push: Turkey and Saudi Arabia plan a rail link reaching Jordan and Syria to ease Hormuz disruption and move freight and people toward Europe. Jerusalem Custodianship Warning: A Jordanian columnist warned that moves around Al-Aqsa and the West Bank could undermine Hashemite custodianship, linking alleged U.S.-Israeli plans to on-the-ground changes. World Cup Governance Row: Jordan and other football associations rejected UEFA chief Aleksander Čeferin’s remarks that the expanded 48-team World Cup creates “uninteresting” matches, stressing the tournament’s universality.

Public Finance Tightening: Prime Minister Jafar Hassan issued a circular for the 2027 draft General Budget Law, ordering ministries and public units to cut operating expenditures by 15% and to submit detailed 2027–2029 budget plans by mid-July, with extra spending only justified and linked to priorities like the Economic Modernisation Vision and public sector modernisation. Regional Security: Hassan also met Iraq’s Parliament Speaker Heit al-Halbousi, stressing that Iraq’s security is inseparable from Jordan’s, with behind-the-scenes focus on border and airspace threats and the challenge of armed non-state groups operating beyond Iraqi state control. Energy & Resources: Energy expert Mubarak Al-Tahrawi told Radio Al-Balad that Jordan has major untapped gas, oil shale, and mineral potential, arguing that weakening exploration institutions has held back investment and revenue gains. Economic Diplomacy: Hassan met World Bank managing director of operations Anna Bjerde to discuss cooperation across energy, transport, water, education, healthcare and digital transformation. Infrastructure & Jobs: Excavation has started for the Al Hussein Bin Abdullah II International Stadium in Amra City, targeting 46,000 seats and a late-2029 opening, with sustainability-focused design and transport links. Innovation Funding: Jordan’s Innovative Startups and SMEs Fund committed $7m to Endeavor Catalyst V to draw more international venture capital into the startup ecosystem.

US-Iran Escalation and Ceasefire Talks: The US began another round of strikes on Iran, saying it hit “multiple targets” after fresh Iranian fire reached Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan, as Trump urged Tehran to sign a deal and reopen the Strait of Hormuz—while Iran and mediators signaled the text may not be finalized on the date claimed. Jordan-Iraq Security Link: Jordan’s Prime Minister told Iraq’s parliament speaker that Iraq’s security is a pillar of Jordan’s own security, with growing concern over armed non-state activity and cross-border airspace threats. Energy and Resources Debate: An energy expert argued Jordan has major untapped gas, oil shale and mineral potential, saying the weakening of the Natural Resources Authority hurt exploration and investment. Humanitarian Support for Gaza Media: JHCO and the Jordanian Campaign distributed tents to Palestinian journalists affected by the Gaza war, highlighting Jordan’s medical field hospitals and the need to keep reporting amid displacement. Diplomacy with Qatar: Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi discussed expanding cooperation with Qatar’s PM/FM and welcomed progress in US-Iran mediation, stressing dialogue as the route to stability. Regional Opinion: Columnists warned about risks to Hashemite custodianship in Jerusalem and the status quo at Al-Aqsa amid claims of US-Israeli plans.

U.S.-Iran Escalation: The U.S. says it launched a second day of strikes on Iran and intercepted Iranian drones aimed at commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, as Washington and Tehran trade signals about a possible peace framework—Pakistan’s PM says an electronic signing could happen within 24 hours, while Iran urges caution on timing. Jordan Security & Regional Ties: Amman’s PM stressed that Iraq’s security is inseparable from Jordan’s, highlighting concerns over armed non-state activity beyond Iraqi control. Jordan Economy & Energy: An energy expert tells Radio Al-Balad Jordan has major gas, oil-shale and mineral potential, arguing past institutional weakening hurt exploration; separately, World Bank projections point to growth reaching about 3% by 2028. Holy Sites Debate: A Jordanian columnist warns that reports of moves affecting Hashemite custodianship in Jerusalem could accelerate changes on the ground around Al-Aqsa. Trade Links: Jordan’s exporters push deeper industrial cooperation with South Korea after meetings in Seoul.

US-Iran Tensions and Hormuz Shock: Iran announced a full closure of the Strait of Hormuz on June 11, warning of major disruption to a chokepoint carrying about 20% of global oil flows, as retaliatory strikes hit US-linked sites in Kuwait, Bahrain and Jordan and shipping firms begin halting operations amid rising insurance costs. Diplomacy for a Deal: At the same time, officials say a preliminary US-Iran memorandum of understanding is nearing finalization, with Pakistan’s mediation cited and talk of reopening Hormuz and ending the US naval blockade, though both sides stress the process is not fully “at the finish line yet.” Jordan-Iraq Security Link: Jordan’s Prime Minister told Iraq’s parliamentary speaker that Iraq’s security is a pillar of Jordan’s own security, highlighting Amman’s concern over armed non-state groups operating from Iraqi territory and the need for tighter border and airspace coordination. Jordan’s Resources Debate: An energy expert argued Jordan has large gas, oil-shale and mineral potential, but says weakened exploration institutions and investment gaps have held back development. Regional Messaging: Qatar’s foreign minister and Jordan’s Ayman Safadi discussed bilateral ties and mediation efforts, expressing satisfaction with progress toward a US-Iran agreement.

Gulf Escalation and Jordan on Alert: The U.S. resumed strikes on Iran for a second straight day, after Iran fired on Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan where U.S. forces are based, pushing ceasefire hopes further off track. Kharg Island and Oil Leverage: Trump again floated taking “total control” of Iran’s oil and gas, including Kharg Island, while analysts warn any “deal” may only pause fighting, not end the war. Jordan-Iraq Security Link: In Amman, Prime Minister Jaafar Hassan told Iraq’s parliament speaker that Iraq’s security is inseparable from Jordan’s, amid concerns over drones, airspace breaches, and armed groups operating beyond state control. Jerusalem Custodianship Debate: Columnists in Jordan warned that U.S.-Israeli moves could weaken Hashemite custodianship in Jerusalem, arguing the real test is what Israel is doing on the ground around Al-Aqsa. Energy and Resources Push: An energy expert urged rebuilding Jordan’s geological exploration capacity, arguing the Kingdom’s gas, oil shale, and minerals could boost revenues if institutions and investment are fixed. World Cup as Politics Meets Society: As the tournament begins across North America, Jordanian commentary and regional coverage keep tying sport to wider political tensions and public life.

US-Iran Escalation in the Gulf: The US Central Command said it has launched a second day of strikes on “multiple targets” in Iran after Trump warned Tehran would “pay the price,” as Iran’s attacks hit US-hosting states including Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan and threatened to derail ceasefire efforts. Jordan Security Posture: Jordan’s air defenses and military readiness stayed central as regional missile and drone threats continued, with Jordan reporting interceptions and urging citizens to follow official guidance amid renewed sirens and airspace concerns. Deal Claims vs. Reality: Trump said a “great settlement” could be signed as soon as this weekend and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, but Iranian officials publicly pushed back that no final agreement is reached—keeping markets and regional capitals on edge. Amman Regional Diplomacy: Prime Minister Jaafar Hassan told Iraq’s parliament speaker that Iraq’s security is inseparable from Jordan’s, highlighting shared concerns over armed groups and border/airspace risks. Energy & Resources Angle: An energy expert argued Jordan’s gas, oil shale and minerals remain underdeveloped, pointing to weakened exploration institutions and calling for renewed investment to boost public revenues.

Jordan Air Defense: Jordan’s Armed Forces say they intercepted and destroyed 20 Iranian missiles aimed at the Azraq area over Zarqa early Thursday; fragments fell with no injuries, and engineering teams are clearing debris. US-Iran Escalation: The US and Iran traded strikes for a second day as Trump vowed to hit Iran “very hard tonight” and floated taking control of Kharg Island and Iran’s oil and gas markets; Iran said the April ceasefire is “practically meaningless” and warned of wider retaliation. Regional Impact on Jordan: Iran’s attacks targeted US-linked bases in Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan, prompting air-raid alerts and security warnings; Jordan says it remains on high readiness to protect sovereignty and airspace. Diplomacy Under Strain: Egypt and Qatar urged continued US-Iran talks to prevent a broader regional conflict, while Iran and Washington blamed each other for the stalled deal. Energy Markets: Oil prices slid as traders weighed whether the renewed fighting signals real supply disruption or familiar geopolitical noise. Jordan in the Spotlight: Jordan’s World Cup debut also drew global attention, with Jordan-themed World Cup music and coverage ramping up as the tournament kicks off.

US–Iran Escalation: The U.S. military launched another round of “self-defense” strikes on Iran, saying it hit “multiple targets” after Trump warned Tehran would “pay the price” for stalled talks. The new action follows fresh Iranian attacks on U.S. bases in Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan, with Jordan saying it intercepted five missiles aimed toward Azraq. Regional Security: Jordan’s Prime Minister told Iraq’s parliament speaker that Iraq’s security is inseparable from Jordan’s, amid concerns over drones and armed groups operating beyond state control. Gulf Diplomacy: GCC leaders stressed sovereignty is “non-negotiable” as the Strait of Hormuz dispute and cross-border strikes ripple through Lebanon and wider negotiations. Jordan Domestic/Policy: An energy expert said Jordan has major untapped gas, oil and mineral potential, arguing institutions need rebuilding to unlock development. Amman/Regional Governance: Jordanian opinion pieces focus on Jerusalem’s holy-site status and the risk of further changes to the Al-Aqsa framework.

US-Iran Escalation: The U.S. launched airstrikes on Iran after blaming Tehran for the crash of a U.S. helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz, as Iran retaliated by firing on bases and warning of “more severe” responses—again putting Jordan, Bahrain and Kuwait hosting U.S. forces in the spotlight. Jordan’s Defense Update: Jordan’s Armed Forces said it intercepted and shot down five missiles launched toward Azraq with no casualties. Regional Diplomacy: Qatar condemned the Iranian attacks on Kuwait, Bahrain and Jordan and urged de-escalation, while Amman and Baghdad reiterated that Iraq’s security is inseparable from Jordan’s amid drone and border-airspace concerns. Holy Sites & West Bank Politics: Jordanian columnists warned that threats to Hashemite custodianship in Jerusalem could be tied to ongoing Israeli moves around Al-Aqsa. Economy & Resources: An energy expert argued Jordan has major untapped gas, oil and mineral potential that could reshape revenues if exploration institutions are rebuilt. World Cup (Local Angle): With the tournament starting, Jordan’s national team is set for Group J matches including a June 27 opener against Argentina.

Iran–US Escalation: The US launched airstrikes on Iran after Trump blamed Tehran for an Apache helicopter crash near the Strait of Hormuz, and Iran retaliated by targeting US-linked sites across Bahrain, Kuwait, and Jordan. Jordan Air Defense: Jordan’s armed forces said they intercepted and shot down five missiles launched from Iran toward the al-Azraq area, with debris falling inside Jordan but no injuries or damage. Regional Fallout: Bahrain and Kuwait reported air-raid sirens and air-defense activity as the exchange threatened to derail efforts to end the wider Iran war. Diplomatic/Political Context: Jordan’s leadership continued to frame regional security as inseparable from its own stability, while commentary in Jordanian outlets warned that shifts around Jerusalem and holy-site custodianship remain tightly linked to broader regional power plays.

Accession Day Diplomacy: Jordan marked King Abdullah II’s 27th throne anniversary with a wave of regional congratulations, including messages from the UAE and Bahrain, while the Crown Prince also sent personal greetings. Regional Security & Airspace: Amman reiterated that its airspace remains under control after reports of missile breaches and sirens, as regional escalation keeps Jordan on high alert. Jordan-Iraq Security Ties: Prime Minister Jaafar Hassan told Iraq’s parliament speaker that Iraq’s security is inseparable from Jordan’s, stressing concern over armed groups operating beyond state authority. EU Human Rights Spotlight: An EU human-rights envoy described Jordan as a trusted strategic partner after meetings with civil society and UN refugee agencies, underscoring long-running cooperation. Energy & Resources Debate: A new discussion in Jordanian media renewed calls to better develop gas, oil shale, and mineral potential, arguing institutional weaknesses have held back exploration. Human Rights Case: Human Rights Watch urged Jordan to move forward with an application to review and annul the conviction of Ayman Sandouka, calling for repeal of restrictive cybercrime provisions. Transit Corridor Watch: Turkey’s trade and transport officials highlighted the Türkiye–Syria–Jordan–Saudi corridor’s importance, while Turkey and Saudi signed logistics and rail cooperation MoUs.

Cabinet & Budgeting: Prime Minister Jaafar Hassan urged ministries to start drafting 2027 budgets so the general budget is submitted within the constitutional deadline, while also pushing a 15% cut in operational expenses and a JD30 monthly salary increase for civil and military staff and retirees earning under JD600. Health Reform Financing: The Cabinet approved a $400m World Bank IBRD deal for a results-based Health Sector Reform Programme through 2030, targeting better hospital governance, stronger primary care, earlier detection of non-communicable diseases, and faster digital integration. Regional Security & Airspace: Jordan warned of an airspace breach linked to renewed regional escalation, with authorities stressing air traffic was continuing normally and that Jordan would not be a battlefield. Jordan–Iraq Ties: Hassan told Iraqi Parliament Speaker Heit al-Halbousi that Iraq’s security is inseparable from Jordan’s, highlighting concern over non-state armed activity beyond Iraqi state control. EU–Jordan Relations: EU human rights envoy Kaja Ollongren described Jordan as a trusted strategic partner, citing long-running cooperation and Jordan’s role in stability amid refugee pressures. Energy & Resources Debate: An energy expert said Jordan has major untapped gas, oil shale, and mineral potential, arguing that rebuilding specialized exploration institutions is key to turning resources into revenue.

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.