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Beyond the attack: Extremism, social cohesion, and the political economy of stability in Jordan

Sat, 07 Nov 2026 11:28:16 +0300

By: Sanad El-NaserJordan Daily - Terrorism is rarely confined to the individual or location directly targeted. Its broader objective is often to shape what follows: how people interpret violence, how members of society view one another, and whether fear displaces a shared sense of belonging. Accordingly, the recent events in Jordan should not be regarded merely as isolated security incidents. The attack on the church in Karak, followed later by the killing of a Public Security Directorate officer (Al Shaheed) in Amman, involved two different institutions, and the authorities have not established an operational link between the incidents. Nevertheless, both raise the same fundamental question: what does extremism ultimately seek to achieve?The consequences extend beyond physical destruction. Extremism seeks to foster division. Jordan has experienced several terrorist attacks in the past, and these incidents have repeatedly demonstrated that the country’s true test lies not only in confronting the immediate security threat but also in preserving national unity afterwards.A church is not merely a place of worship; it also represents a community and its recognised place within the national social fabric. Similarly, a police officer is not simply an individual in uniform; the officer represents the authority of the law and the relationship between society and the institutions responsible for its protection.From a constructivist perspective, divisions between “us” and “them” are not necessarily natural or fixed political realities. Discourse, symbolism, and violence can produce and reinforce them. When an extremist targets a religious community, the objective is not merely to harm the immediate victims, but also to encourage society to perceive that community as distinct from the broader national collective.This is where the ontology of extremism becomes significant. Extremist thinking often constructs an oversimplified world based on rigid binaries: believer and unbeliever, pure and corrupt, loyal and hostile. Jordanian identity, by contrast, is multifaceted. Citizens may differ religiously, geographically, socially, or professionally, yet remain part of the same national community. Extremism seeks to erase these overlapping identities and replace them with a single dividing line.The problem is also epistemological. Extremism can create a closed system for determining what is “true,” where contradictory evidence is rejected and rumours or selective information reinforce a pre-existing worldview. This is why the danger of an attack does not end when the attack itself is over. If rumours generate suspicion among Jordanians, then the extremist narrative has already achieved part of its objective.King Abdullah II’s response following the Karak attack demonstrated an understanding of this broader dimension. It extended beyond security measures to include efforts to counter rumours and misinformation, review policies for addressing extremist ideology, and tackle its underlying causes. The Speech from the Throne likewise underscored national unity and the resilience of both the state and society. Confronting extremism therefore involves not only apprehending attackers, but also preventing violence from redefining relationships among Jordanians.This can also be understood through the concept of ontological security. Societies require not only physical security but also continuity in their sense of identity and stability. Terrorism seeks to disrupt this continuity by raising questions about whether the state can continue to protect society, whether communities can continue to trust one another, and whether national identity remains stronger than sectarian or ideological divisions. Unity is therefore not merely political rhetoric; it is an element of national security.The Jordanian state also operates simultaneously on two levels. Putnam’s Two Level Games provides a useful framework for understanding this dynamic. Externally, Jordan operates within a highly unstable regional environment while maintaining relationships with international and security partners. Internally, it must preserve national cohesion, confidence in institutions, and economic stability. These two levels are interconnected, as weak domestic cohesion reduces the state’s ability to respond effectively to external pressure.Political economy adds another dimension. Jordan’s stability is both a political and economic asset, supporting investment, tourism, and long term decision making. In Keynesian terms, economic actors rely on shared expectations when the future is uncertain. Extremism therefore, threatens not only security, but also the broader sense of stability on which economic activity depends.Extremism should not be attributed solely to poverty or unemployment. Economic hardship does not automatically produce radicalisation. However, uneven development, limited social mobility, and perceptions of exclusion can create conditions in which narratives of anger and alienation are more easily exploited. Long term efforts to counter extremism therefore require security and intelligence measures, but also education, employment opportunities, credible religious discourse, digital literacy, local development, and institutions that strengthen citizens’ connection to society and the state.Jordanians should also avoid being drawn into the division and social discord that extremists seek to foster through social media disputes, sectarian accusations, or unnecessary public confrontation. Even limited displays of division may unintentionally advance extremist objectives by suggesting that society is no longer acting as a unified national community. At the same time, the state should strengthen policies concerning individuals convicted of extremist offences who are released from prison, including rigorous risk assessments, rehabilitation and deradicalisation programmes, post release monitoring where legally justified, and structured reintegration into society.In the end, success should not be measured only by the number of attackers arrested or networks disrupted. The more important question is whether extremists succeeded in changing the way Jordanians see one another.An attack on a church should not be framed as a Christian issue; it should remain a Jordanian issue. Targeting a police officer should be understood as an attack not only on the individual, but on the state, the rule of law, and the security of all Jordanians.The extremist seeks to replace citizenship with division, trust with suspicion, and coexistence with fear. The real victory is ensuring this objective fails.In a period of regional instability, Jordan’s strength continues to rest on national unity, institutional resilience, and the leadership of His Majesty King Abdullah II. May God protect His Majesty and Crown Prince Al Hussein, and preserve Jordan’s security and stability.

French bank hit by €100m cyber attack recovers some funds

Sat, 07 Nov 2026 07:37:06 +0300

AFP- A French regional bank that lost over €100m in a cyberattack has recovered some of the missing funds, a senior official said on Friday.Hackers gained access to Credit Mutuel Arkea and made transfers to other accounts in the attack, revealed on Wednesday, without touching funds belonging to customers.Daniel Baal, president of the Confederation Nationale du Credit Mutuel (CNCM), which oversees the various arms of Credit Mutuel, told France 5 TV station that the bank had “already recovered part of (the missing money) today,” without detailing how much.The exact amount stolen in the attack is believed to be €118m, according to the newspaper Le Telegramme.France’s specialist anti-cybercrime unit is investigating the attack.“We face cyberattacks every day. (...) Fortunately, the vast majority, almost all of them, are thwarted,” Baal said.“With this particular attack, I cannot say absolutely whether it is French or foreign.”Cyberattacks have hit supermarkets in at least nine European countries this week, with the European Union warning of a deliberate attempt to disrupt food supplies.Russia, long accused of regular cyberattacks on Europe, has denied any involvement.

Crown Prince observes advanced drone tech demonstrations in Estonia

Sat, 07 Nov 2026 07:34:25 +0300

Jordan Daily - HRH Crown Prince Hussein, during a visit to Järva County, Estonia on Friday, observed live drone and counter-drone demonstrations by companies specialising in defence, air defence, and security technology industries.The Crown Prince, accompanied by Estonian Defence Forces Commander Lt. Gen. Andrus Merilo, was briefed on cutting-edge drone technologies and air traffic control and surveillance systems, as well as on advanced artificial intelligence-powered field intelligence and border surveillance platforms and solutions, according to a Royal Court statement.His Royal Highness also met with Estonia Parliament President Lauri Hussar on the sidelines of the defence exhibition at Nurmsi Airfield, and emphasised the importance of building on the visit and drawing on Estonia’s expertise in various fields, particularly defence.The meeting also underscored the significance of strengthening economic cooperation between the two countries, as well as fostering the exchange of expertise and visits between their respective parliamentary delegations.The Crown Prince was accompanied by Minister of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship Sami Smeirat, and Director of the Office of the Crown Prince Zaid Baqain.

Kazakhstan, Jordan co-chair Aqaba Process Summit in Astana focusing on AI security

Fri, 06 Nov 2026 19:05:04 +0300

Jordan Daily - Kazakhstan and Jordan co-chaired the Aqaba Process Summit in Astana on Friday, bringing together Central Asian countries and Azerbaijan to discuss security challenges and the implications of advances in artificial intelligence.The summit focused on the opportunities and risks associated with developing secure, ethical and sustainable AI ecosystems, as well as strengthening regional cooperation to address emerging security threats linked to the technology.Kazakhstan's hosting of the event underscored growing international confidence in the country and its role as a platform for regional and global security dialogue, while the joint chairmanship reflected closer strategic cooperation between Astana and Amman, according to a factsheet sent to Jordan Daily by the Embassy of Kazakhstan in Amman.Kazakhstan reaffirmed its commitment to promoting regional dialogue and collective approaches to security challenges in Central Asia, highlighting the importance of moving beyond discussions of emerging threats towards practical cooperation, expertise-sharing and the development of common approaches.The summit also sought to bring together governments and international technology companies to support a secure and responsible AI environment, while strengthening coordination among participating countries and enhancing regional resilience.The meeting further reinforced Astana's position as an international venue for dialogue on pressing global issues and provided an opportunity to deepen unity among Central Asian states in addressing evolving security challenges.The Aqaba Process is an international initiative launched in 2015 by King Abdullah II to combat terrorism and violent extremism. It is an informal platform for high-level dialogue rather than an international organisation or military alliance.The initiative brings together heads of state, government officials, international organisations, security and law enforcement agencies, and experts.

A veteran Arab lawmaker in Israel is willing to break with precedent to topple Netanyahu

Fri, 06 Nov 2026 08:10:14 +0300

AP- A veteran Arab lawmaker in Israel says his bloc is willing to break with decades of precedent and join forces with Jewish-led parties in a shared bid to end Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s long rule.“We want to do things that we did not do in the past in order to remove this criminal government,” Ahmad Tibi, a senior member of the Arab Joint List, told The Associated Press.But any such partnership could be politically fraught for both sides. For the Joint List, it would mean backing a government unlikely to end Israel’s wars or curb settlement expansion in the occupied West Bank. For Netanyahu’s opponents, it would mean aligning with parties that not only criticize Israel’s policies, but reject its identity as a Jewish state.After historic voter turnout delivered Arab-led parties a record share in Israel’s parliament, Tibi said the Joint List is willing to support an anti-Netanyahu government without joining it. That could reassure Jewish-led factions that view them with suspicion and satisfy their own constituents. It would still give the Joint List major influence.Only one Arab party has ever served in an Israeli government, in 2021. But that party, Ra’am, is much more conciliatory than the Joint List and held fewer seats. Ra’am is willing to join another anti-Netanyahu government as a partner, but any such arrangement would still need the support of the Joint List.If the Jewish-led parties reject such a partnership, then it would prove Israel is “an ethnocracy, not an absolute democracy for all citizens,” Tibi said.The Joint List’s positions put it at odds with most IsraelisMost of the Palestinian population in what is now Israel fled or was expelled during the 1948 war surrounding its creation. Those who remained were granted citizenship, including the right to vote, and today they and their descendants make up some 20 percent of the population.Many Jewish Israelis have historically viewed Arab-led political parties with suspicion. That distrust has been reinforced by lawmakers who have defended or praised Israel’s enemies.The Joint List, a coalition of three left-wing and nationalist parties, rejects what it refers to as the “racist Zionist consensus” in Israel. It calls for partnering with Jewish Israelis who support a Palestinian state in the West Bank, Gaza and east Jerusalem, territories occupied in the 1967 Mideast war. It rejects Israel’s identity as a Jewish state, calling for equal rights for all its citizens.Many Jewish Israelis see that as support for the country’s enemies at a time of war. Netanyahu has encouraged such sentiments, lodging unproven accusations of electoral fraud against the Arab-led parties and portraying them as a threat to national security.A dilemma for Netanyahu’s opponentsThat creates a dilemma for Netanyahu’s main opponents, led by former general Gadi Eisenkot.In the campaign, they portrayed Netanyahu as a corrupt leader who failed to prevent the Oct. 7, 2023, attack and then blocked a public inquiry into it. They cast the election in existential terms, saying Netanyahu’s far-right government threatened Israel’s democratic institutions.They won 48 seats in the 120-member Knesset, compared to 53 for Netanyahu’s coalition. The Joint List won 11 seats and Ra’am won 8, making them crucial to forming an anti-Netanyahu majority.The Joint List could help an anti-Netanyahu bloc take power by voting for it or by abstaining to lower the threshold needed for a majority. Either arrangement could allow opposition parties to form a government without requiring the Joint List to become part of their administration. Joining could put its lawmakers in the uncomfortable position of being part of a government waging wars in Gaza and Lebanon that they oppose.Some of Eisenkot’s allies welcome Arab support while others are opposed, pointing to past statements by Joint List leaders they argue deny Israel’s legitimacy or support its enemies.Tibi said he was under no illusions that a partnership with Netanyahu’s opponents would end the wars or bring about a Palestinian state. But he said a “repair government” would improve the lives of Palestinian citizens, by ending Netanyahu’s rule and also potentially addressing local issues like a wave of violent crime in Arab communities.It’s unclear what conditions would be requiredEisenkot has said Arab-led parties must meet certain conditions in any partnership, including calling Hamas a terrorist group that needs to be destroyed.Tibi said the conditions do not apply to parties like the Joint List that want to provide outside support.The Joint List and Ra’am have denounced the Hamas-led Oct. 7 attack and any violence against civilians. But they have refused to brand Hamas a terrorist group or call for its destruction, saying that doing so would justify Israel’s devastating military campaign in Gaza.Tibi said both the Oct. 7 attack and Israel’s response to it were immoral.The veteran lawmaker has long been a lightning rod for right-wing attacks on Arab parties. During Israel’s 2019 elections, Netanyahu, popularly known as Bibi, campaigned on the slogan “Bibi or Tibi?” to warn voters that opposing him meant relying on Arab-led parties to form a government.Tibi said Tuesday that the election result had turned the slogan on its head.“When he said ‘Bibi or Tibi,’ he incited against Arabs,” he said. “Now, it’s ‘Tibi,’ because Arab voters went in a very massive way to take part in the elections. It’s definitely our story this time.”

Crown Prince meets with Estonia PM

Fri, 06 Nov 2026 07:38:38 +0300

Jordan Daily - HRH Crown Prince Hussein on Thursday met with Estonia Prime Minister Kristen Michal.During the meeting, held in Tallinn, the Crown Prince emphasised the importance of strengthening relations between Jordan and Estonia across various fields, particularly in economic spheres and in areas relating to the development of digital government services, cybersecurity, and tourism.His Royal Highness expressed his thanks to Prime Minister Michal for inviting him to take part in the Tallinn Digital Summit 2026.Speaking about the situation in the region, the Crown Prince reiterated the need to de-escalate tensions and work towards stability.His Royal Highness also warned of the dangers of Israel’s escalation in the West Bank, while urging a stronger international humanitarian response for Gaza.Minister of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship Sami Smeirat, and Director of the Office of the Crown Prince Zaid Baqain attended the meeting.

King in talks with Kazakhstan president: Jordan will not falter in its fight against terrorism, extremism

Fri, 06 Nov 2026 07:52:07 +0300

Jordan Daily - His Majesty King Abdullah, during talks with Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in Astana on Thursday, emphasised that Jordan will not falter in its fight against terrorism and extremism, nor will it allow anyone to threaten its security or harm its citizens.His Majesty commended Kazakhstan’s efforts in co-hosting a new round of the Aqaba Process meetings, which are being held under the theme Security in the Field of Artificial Intelligence, noting that this reflects a shared commitment to addressing regional and international security challenges.During talks, attended by HRH Prince Ghazi, His Majesty’s chief adviser for religious and cultural affairs and personal envoy, the King highlighted the deep-rooted ties and friendship between the two countries, their mutual respect, and shared commitment to peace and stability.His Majesty emphasised Jordan’s commitment to advancing cooperation with Kazakhstan in key sectors, such as trade, investment, technology, defence, mining, uranium, and tourism, noting the importance of establishing a direct flight route between the two countries.Regarding developments in the region, the King underscored that the two-state solution is the only path towards achieving peace and stability, noting that Israel cannot be allowed to continue its attacks in Jerusalem, Gaza, and the West Bank, nor its attempts to violate the sovereignty of Arab states.His Majesty called on the international community to shoulder its responsibilities to bring an end to the escalation in the region, stressing that Jordan would continue to work with its partners, including Kazakhstan, to achieve stability.For his part, President Tokayev said that Jordan is a time-tested and reliable partner for Kazakhstan in the Arab world, noting that the two countries share the same views on many regional and international issues, the statement said.President Tokayev also emphasised that economic integration is the driving force of relations between the two countries, highlighting the importance of agreements in trade, investment, industry, agriculture, energy, and technology.During the visit, the Kazakhstan president also presented the Order of Al Farabi to the King. The Order of Al Farabi symbolises the close ties between Kazakhstan and the Arab world in the fields of science and Islamic studies, and is the first of its kind to be awarded to a head of state.His Majesty bestowed on President Tokayev the Order of Al Hussein bin Ali, in recognition of the distinguished relations between the two countries and their peoples.Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Maj. Gen. Majdi Al Harasis, General Intelligence Department Director Maj. Gen. Ahmad Husni, Director of the Office of His Majesty Alaa Batayneh, and Jordan’s Ambassador to Kazakhstan Hamzeh Al Omari attended the talks.

Prince Faisal visits officer injured in Amman terrorist attack

Fri, 06 Nov 2026 07:43:36 +0300

Jordan Daily - Prince Faisal bin al-Hussein,the Regent visited a security officer injured in a terrorist attack in Amman who is receiving treatment at the King Hussein Medical City.Prince Faisal wished the officer a speedy recovery and offered condolences over the death of Corporal Jawad al-Salayta, who was killed in the same attack.He said King Abdullah was following developments related to the investigation into the attack and condemned any acts targeting the security and safety of Jordanians.

Security officer killed in suspected terrorist stabbing in Amman

Fri, 06 Nov 2026 07:42:56 +0300

Jordan Daily - Security officer was killed in a stabbing attack outside an embassy in the capital Amman on Thursday, in what initial indications suggest was a terrorist act, informed sources said.The attacker, who was carrying several bladed weapons, including two daggers, attempted to seize the officer's weapon, the sources said.A second security officer intervened, preventing the attacker from taking the weapon and engaging him in a confrontation. The second officer was taken to hospital after the clash.Security forces arrested the attacker, while bomb disposal units were deployed to the scene to inspect the area and ensure it was safe.The attack took place on Medina Street in Amman, where security forces established a heavy presence and closed several entrances to the street.

King departs for Kazakhstan

Thu, 05 Nov 2026 13:44:06 +0300

Jordan Daily - His Majesty King Abdullah departed Jordan on Thursday for an official visit to Kazakhstan.During the visit, His Majesty will hold talks with Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in Astana.The King and President Tokayev will also co-chair a new round of the Aqaba Process meetings under the theme Security in the Field of Artificial Intelligence, with the participation of heads of state and international officials.HRH Prince Feisal was sworn in as Regent, in the presence of Cabinet members.

Sudan: MSF urges restoring routine immunization

Thu, 05 Nov 2026 13:32:05 +0300

Jordan Daily – During a period of just over two years during the ongoing war in Sudan, teams from Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) across Darfur treated close to 30,000 patients with vaccine-preventable diseases, according to a new MSF report. Measles was the most common disease treated and mostly among unvaccinated children. MSF urges the Sudanese health and political authorities to lift barriers and administrative blockages currently preventing vaccines from entering Darfur. We also urge donor countries and the UN to increase funding and provide the vaccines to health authorities. Without immediate action to restore immunization activities in the country, outbreaks will continue to spiral, and people will keep dying from diseases we have the tools to prevent.Between January 2024 and April 2026, MSF-supported facilities in four states of Darfur, a vast region in western Sudan, recorded more than 28,000 measles cases and nearly 2,000 pertussis cases: 75 per cent of the patients treated for measles were not vaccinated, and 69 per cent were children under five years old.“Several localities including Tawila, El Geneina, Rokero, Zalingei, Nyala, and East Jebel Marra saw recurrent transmission over consecutive years, suggesting outbreaks were not fully contained and that immunity gaps persisted despite repeated outbreak response activities,” says Sebastián Traficante, MSF emergency coordinator in Darfur. “Our teams are constantly treating children for diseases that could have been prevented with a vaccine. Many children reach our facilities in critical condition, and they simply don't make it out of the hospital.”Wartime collapse of health system, supply and staffing issuesAccording to the MSF report, the transmission was particularly high in South Darfur, where 10,600 suspected measles cases were reported in the first four months of 2026 alone, exceeding the total number of cases in 2025.Vaccine-preventable diseases are especially dangerous when paired with complications of other medical conditions, such as malaria and malnutrition, which are rampant across Darfur. With the war in its fourth year, Sudan faces one of the world's worst humanitarian crises: in 2026, 34 million people need humanitarian aid and 21 million cannot get basic or even life-saving medical care due to the collapse of the Sudanese health system. According to the World Health Organization, 37 per cent of health facilities across the country are non-functional. Those still open in Darfur report severe shortages of staff, medicines, vaccines, equipment and supplies, and many have only partially functioning or non-functioning cold chains to keep vaccines viable.“Routine vaccination services struggle to reach people, especially in remote areas. The supply, transport and storage of vaccines face significant barriers, mostly due to administrative delays, such as in obtaining import approvals and travel permits,” says Dr. Saiful Islam, MSF emergency medical coordinator for South Darfur. “State-level vaccination offices are often not functioning, leaving little monitoring or supervision. Many health facilities have no permanent vaccination staff and rely on volunteers.”Both availability and access are major concerns for communities. In South Darfur, where the burden of vaccine-preventable diseases is highest, only a fraction of facilities has fully functional cold-chain capacities. In Central Darfur, which experienced recent measles and pertussis outbreaks, MSF teams reported delays in vaccine arrival, administrative approvals and vaccine mobilization significantly slowed outbreak response activities. When services do not reach communities, families have to travel to find them. But the war has destroyed livelihoods and sent prices skyrocketing, leaving little income for families. For many parents, even the cost of transport to the nearest health facility is out of reach.“My child had never been vaccinated because we live in a farmland area, about three hours away from Sortony town," says Fauzia, the mother of three-year-old Faiz. "The rainy season also makes it complicated to move around. Many children in my area are affected by vaccine preventable diseases.” Faiz was admitted to Rokero hospital, in Central Darfur, for suspected whooping cough. After being examined, the MSF medical team confirmed that he was also affected by meningitis and tetanus. After 16 days in the isolation ward, Faiz passed away.Emergency vaccination campaigns not enoughDisease surveillance is also a major gap. With limited monitoring and follow-up, outbreaks often go undetected until the disease has spread widely, and emergency vaccination campaigns begin too late.Some emergency campaigns have taken place in various parts of Darfur since 2024 and can help contain outbreaks. But these campaigns need to be more efficient, ideally including antigens for several diseases, and they cannot replace routine immunization. For instance, in Tawila, North Darfur, a severe measles outbreak saw more than 1,900 cases treated at Tawila Hospital between January and April 2026. Following an emergency mass vaccination campaign reaching 130,000 children across Tawila town and internally displaced camps, community transmission was brought to a halt, with cases dropping to just 96 between April and September 2026, a 95 per cent reduction.While these targeted emergency campaigns save lives in real time and we have seen cases drop afterwards, without sustained investment in routine vaccination, cold-chain infrastructure, vaccination staff and disease surveillance, outbreaks of measles, pertussis and other preventable diseases will keep returning across Darfur. "Immunization in Darfur and the rest of Sudan must be adapted to the reality of the conflict," says Traficante, MSF emergency coordinator. "That means mobile, outreach and catch-up services run by professional vaccination teams. They can reach unvaccinated children where they are, and also act as our eyes in communities, tracking immunization rates and detecting outbreaks early."MSF calls on health authorities, donors and UN agencies to fund and facilitate mobile and catch-up vaccination across Darfur and the rest of Sudan. MSF also urges all warring parties and authorities in Sudan to immediately remove administrative barriers to the import and transport of vaccines.

Hikma confirms full year 2026 Group guidance

Thu, 05 Nov 2026 13:52:54 +0300

Jordan Daily – Hikma Pharmaceuticals PLC (Hikma, Group), the multinational pharmaceutical group, today provides an update on current trading. Said Darwazah, Hikma’s CEO, said: “We are seeing strong momentum at Hikma, delivering on the commitments we made at the beginning of the year. The Group’s performance year-to-date is in line with our expectations, reflecting the strength of our diversified business. Branded is outperforming, profitability in Hikma Rx is improving, and Injectables is stabilising, well positioned for future growth. We have expanded our portfolio and pipeline through new launches and an increased investment in R&D. Reflecting this performance and our expectations for trading as we close the year, we are pleased to narrow our expected Group operating profit range to $740 million to $760 million.”BrandedOur Branded business continues to perform very well, with strong demand across our markets. As the largest pharmaceutical company by sales in the MENA region, we are committed to ensuring continuity of supply for our patients and customers. This year we have expanded our portfolio through new launches and partnerships, with a particular focus on cardiovascular, diabetes and CNS medications. As expected, we have stepped up our investment in sales and marketing in the second half, including hosting flagship conferences such as the Hikma Cancer Network.Reflecting the strength of performance thus far in 2026, we are upgrading our expectations and now expect Branded revenue to grow by around 10% in 2026 (up from previous guidance of 6% to 8%). Even with the increased investment we are making in sales and marketing in the second half, we now expect core operating margin of close to 27% (up from around 25%), reflecting the excellent performance and strong product mix.Injectables We have invested significantly in our global Injectables business this year, strengthening its foundation for future growth. We have focused on building our commercial capabilities, streamlining our operations and enhancing our R&D pipeline. To complement our in-house R&D, our business development team has signed multiple deals in the year to date, expanding our pipeline of complex products and new technologies.In the US, good demand for our base business and gradual progress in Tyzavan® sales are mostly offsetting price erosion. We are performing well in Europe and Canada, where we are seeing good demand across our markets, gaining market share and responding to critical shortages, all of which is offsetting the expected decline in contract manufacturing. These efforts are strengthening Hikma’s position as a trusted partner, enhancing supply reliability, and improving access to essential medicines.In MENA, we are also seeing good demand, benefitting from our extensive biosimilar and oncology portfolio and the successful launch of new products, including a first-to-market opportunity. This is offsetting the impact of supply chain disruptions experienced earlier in the year relating to the manufacturing challenges of one of our in-licensing partners. We now expect Injectables revenue to be broadly flat in 2026, compared with our previous expectation of low single digit growth. We continue to expect core operating margin in the range of 27% to 28%.Hikma RxHikma Rx is performing well with a significant improvement in profitability. Demand for sodium oxybate has remained strong and our contract manufacturing business continues to generate good revenue from the preparation phase of a key contract, which is moving towards commercial production. Going forward, the scale of the contribution from this contract will depend on demand for our partner’s product, which we expect will gradually ramp up over the course of 2027.Our focus on the cadence of new launches for Hikma Rx has resulted in eight new products in the year to date. Our R&D pipeline is improving and we expect further launches before year end and into 2027, which will help to offset an increase in competition on our base business.In September, we announced that the US filing for our epinephrine nasal spray had been accepted by the US FDA. We have also filed the product in multiple other markets and will provide an update on the outcome of these filings in 2027. We continue to expect Hikma Rx revenue to be broadly flat in 2026, with core operating margin of close to 20%.Global geopolitical environmentWe closely monitor geopolitical developments in the Middle East, including in Saudi Arabia. Regional demand remains robust, and the Group’s supply chain is well positioned. We are absorbing inflationary pressures while maintaining our focus on continuity of supply.LeadershipWe announced the appointment of Becky Hall as CFO designate in September and can now confirm that Becky will join Hikma on 8 March 2027.Share buybackWe announced on 28 August 2026 the completion of the $250 million share repurchase programme as announced on 26 February 2026. Hikma purchased a total of 13,138,823 shares and currently has issued share capital of 208,747,630 Ordinary Shares of 10 pence each with voting rights.Group full year outlookWe are reiterating our outlook for 2026 Group revenue to grow in the range of 2% to 4% and we are narrowing our expected Group operating profit range to $740 million to $760 million, from the previous range of $720 million to $770 million.

Trump says ‘largely true’ Iran war caused midterms loss, after Vance comments

Thu, 05 Nov 2026 07:01:30 +0300

AFP- US President Donald Trump on Wednesday acknowledged that the Iran war was the key factor in his party’s sweeping midterm election losses, after Vice President JD Vance urged Republicans to be “honest” about the unpopular conflict’s impact.Asked if he agreed with Vance’s remark that the Iran was “the reason we lost,” Trump, speaking to reporters at his White House ballroom construction site, said: “I think it’s largely true because it drove the gasoline up a little bit short term.”“But at the same time, if I had it to do again, I’d have to do it again. Because long term, it’s the only answer. You can’t let Iran have a nuclear weapon,” he added.He ruled out firing Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, a staunch proponent of military action against the Islamic republic.“No, I think he’s doing a very good job,” Trump said when asked if he was considering replacing Hegseth.Earlier on Wednesday, Vance said that the Iran war had doomed Republicans in the midterm elections, moving to distance himself from the unpopular conflict ahead of a possible 2028 White House run.“The reason we lost is the war. The president himself said so last night,” Vance said in a lengthy post on X — apparently referring to President Donald Trump’s remarks that the Iran war was “part of it” but that it was still justified.“If you’d like to argue it was worth it, that losing the Senate for the next 6 years was worth it, then do so. Argue it was a worthwhile cost to pay. Agree or disagree, that’s at least honest,” added Vance.“But everyone knows why we lost. And any honest conversation about where we go from here must start there.”The Democratic wave in Tuesday’s midterms has raised major questions over Vance’s previous status as the frontrunner for the Republican nomination in the 2028 presidential election.He has not yet formally declared that he will run.Vance, a longtime vocal critic of US foreign interventionism, had reportedly been skeptical behind the scenes about the war on Iran that Trump and Israel launched in late February.Vance also acknowledged that Republican voters who backed Trump and himself two years ago had switched sides due to the war and its effects on the US economy.“The main problem is that many people who voted for Trump/Vance in 2024 voted for Democrats in 2026,” Vance said.He said a pollster that he respected showed the Iran war and the economy were key factors in voters abandoning Republicans, along with a desire to “change our relationship to Israel.”Meanwhile, top Senate Democrat Chuck Schumer said the Iran war “must end” and suggested his party’s incoming majority in Congress could use their control over government funding to press for that goal.“This war must end. It must end,” Schumer told journalists, later noting that the “power of the purse” is “one of the ways of deterring a president who does war without the consent of the American people.”White House insists Trump is ‘still your president’ after midterm routDonald Trump is “still your president,” the White House said Wednesday, a day after his Republican Party suffered sweeping losses in midterm elections seen as a referendum on his second term.The White House delivered the message in a post on X featuring a picture of a glaring Trump looming over the Resolute Desk in the Oval Office.“PSA: TRUMP IS STILL YOUR PRESIDENT,” text superimposed on the image said, using the abbreviation for public service announcement.“Thank you for your attention to this matter,” the post added, using a phrase Trump frequently employs in his social media messages.Opposition Democrats won control of both the House and the Senate on Tuesday, dealing a major blow to Trump and the Republican Party.The Democratic capture of Congress signals an end to Trump’s stranglehold on US politics and gives Democrats the power to pass legislation, launch investigations into Trump’s administration and thwart his appointments.The results reflected deep frustration over the cost of living, tariffs and Trump’s war with Iran, which has sent prices soaring and compounded dissatisfaction with an already deeply unpopular president.But Trump has threatened to use his veto power, raising questions about how much Democrats can achieve even with control of both the House and Senate.

Korea Embassy and KOICA co-hosted the 2026 Korea Alumni of Jordan

Thu, 05 Nov 2026 06:58:41 +0300

Jordan Daily - The Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Amman and the KOICA (Korea International Cooperation Agency) co-hosted the 2026 Korea Alumni of Jordan, bringing together over 130 alumni from KOICA Fellowship and Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) programs.The gathering was honored by the presence of H.E. Mr. Kim Pilwoo, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Jordan. In his opening remarks, Ambassador Kim Pilwoo emphasized that true prosperity comes from human potential, and today’s gathering of talented professionals stand as a living proof to the successful partnership and joint investment in education between Korea and Jordan.During the event, Jordanian government officials who had participated in KOICA training programs shared insights and experiences gained through specialized courses tailored to their professional fields. Throughout 2026, KOICA organized two training programs for Jordanian government officials, to enhance their expertise, strengthen professional capacities, and drive national development.Additionally, Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) alumni shared lessons learned from their academic journey in Korea, highlighting the value of cross-cultural exchange, academic enrichment, and international educational cooperation.KOICA has been offering training opportunities to Jordan since 1991 through its Capacity Improvement and Advancement for Tomorrow (CIAT) initiative, which focuses on developing human capacities to foster sustainable socio-economic growth. To date, more than 1,200 Jordanian officials have participated in training programs in Korea.Since 1967, the Korean government has also provided scholarship opportunities, Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) program to provide international students with opportunities to study education institutions in Korea, both undergraduate and graduate level. The scholarship aims to enhance international education exchange and strengthen mutual friendship between Korea and participating countries.

Crown Prince meets with Estonia president in Tallinn

Thu, 05 Nov 2026 06:51:35 +0300

Jordan Daily - HRH Crown Prince Hussein on Wednesday met with Estonia President Ülle Madise in Tallinn.The Crown Prince conveyed His Majesty King Abdullah’s regards to President Madise, and congratulated her on being elected. His Royal Highness also highlighted the strength of relations between the two countries and peoples, as well as Jordan’s readiness to enhance cooperation in various sectors, particularly economic ones.The Crown Prince emphasised the importance of building on shared potential, noting key areas for cooperation, particularly in defence systems, technology, education, and tourism. He also expressed Jordan’s keen interest in leveraging Estonia’s expertise in digitalising government services and developing policy.His Royal Highness discussed the Kingdom’s religious tourism offerings, and shared details on Jordan’s preparations for the 2030 millennium celebrations commemorating two thousand years since the baptism of Jesus Christ, to be held at the Baptism Site of Jesus Christ (Bethany Beyond the Jordan).The meeting also touched on recent developments in the region and ways to support efforts to de-escalate tensions and restore stability, in order to safeguard the sovereignty of Arab states and the security of their people.The Crown Prince warned of the dangers posed by Israel’s measures in the West Bank seeking to annex land and expand settlements. His Royal Highness also underscored the need to step up efforts to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and reiterated that the two-state solution is the only way to achieve peace.Minister of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship Sami Smeirat, and Director of the Office of the Crown Prince Zaid Baqain attended the meeting.

Al-Kindi Hospital’s Orthopedic Surgery Center offers advanced care and modern facilities

Wed, 04 Nov 2026 14:20:03 +0300

Jordan Daily - Al-Kindi Hospital’s Orthopedic Surgery Center offers a range of specialized surgical services, supported by experienced medical teams, advanced equipment and modern operating facilities, as part of the hospital’s efforts to strengthen its position as a regional medical tourism destination.The center provides treatment across orthopedic specialties, including arthroscopic surgery, spinal procedures, sports injuries and sports medicine, hand and foot surgery, joint replacement, fracture treatment, reconstructive surgery, limb lengthening and correction, and pediatric orthopedic surgery.Its surgical facilities are equipped with advanced operating tables, monitoring systems and endoscopic technology to support a wide range of procedures, the hospital said.The hospital operates under the leadership of Chairman of the Board of Directors Dr. Mohammad Khrais, a specialist in laparoscopic bariatric surgery, and employs qualified medical, nursing, technical and administrative personnel.Al-Kindi Hospital said its services are supported by modern medical technology, internationally aligned safety standards, local and international accreditations, and competitive treatment costs.The hospital also offers a broad range of specialties and services, including bariatric surgery, neurosurgery, fertility treatment, vascular surgery, interventional radiology, cancer screening, organ transplantation and cardiac procedures.

Azerbaijan marks sixth anniversary of Victory Day, ambassador highlights peace and reconstruction

Wed, 04 Nov 2026 14:06:04 +0300

Jordan Daily - Azerbaijan is marking the sixth anniversary of its victory in the 2020 war with Armenia, with reconstruction of territories regained during the conflict and efforts to secure lasting peace in the South Caucasus remaining key priorities, Azerbaijani Ambassador to Jordan Shahin Abdullayev said.In a statement marking Victory Day, Abdullayev said Azerbaijan’s experience highlighted the importance of international law and the implementation of United Nations resolutions, noting that four Security Council resolutions adopted in 1993 had remained largely unimplemented for decades.Azerbaijan launched a military operation on Sept. 27, 2020, following the Armenian attacks along the line of contact. The 44-day conflict ended with a trilateral statement signed by the leaders of Azerbaijan, Armenia and Russia on Nov. 10, 2020.During the war, Azerbaijan regained control of more than 300 settlements, including Jabrayil, Fuzuli, Zangilan, Gubadli and the historic city of Shusha.Azerbaijan declared Nov. 8 its annual Victory Day in recognition of the outcome of the conflict.In September 2023, Azerbaijan launched military action in Karabakh that ended with a ceasefire and the disarmament and dissolution of local Armenian armed formations, allowing Baku to establish control over the region.Abdullayev said Azerbaijan was now focused on rebuilding the territories and enabling displaced residents to return through the government’s Great Return programme.The initiative includes housing, infrastructure, employment, healthcare, education and economic development, as well as the restoration of cultural and religious heritage.Landmines and unexploded ordnance remain a major obstacle to reconstruction and resettlement. Azerbaijan’s mine-clearance agency, ANAMA, has cleared about 1,385.8 hectares of land, the ambassador said.Abdullayev said progress in the peace process with Armenia, including a joint declaration signed in Washington on Aug. 8, 2025, had created opportunities for greater regional stability and cooperation.He also highlighted Jordan’s support for Azerbaijan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and its backing for efforts to achieve a lasting peace agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia.Jordan and Azerbaijan established diplomatic relations after Jordan recognised Azerbaijan’s independence in December 1991. Their cooperation has expanded across political, economic, investment and cultural fields.Abdullayev said Jordan’s support for the peace process had been reaffirmed by King Abdullah II and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi during contacts with Azerbaijani officials.The ambassador said the anniversary was also an occasion to honour Azerbaijani soldiers killed in the war and reaffirm the need for an international order based on respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity and the consistent implementation of international law.

Jordan’s 2027 Budget: Balancing modernization, social protection and fiscal discipline

Wed, 04 Nov 2026 12:24:49 +0300

By: Faris Al HadidiJordan Daily - Jordan’s 2027 budget is being prepared at a time when must pursue several goals at once. It needs to support economic modernization, improve public services and protect households facing cost of living pressures. At the same time, it must contain spending, reduce the fiscal deficit and bring public debt down over time.The main challenge is not simply to spend more or spend less. It is to protect households, fund projects that raise the economy’s productive capacity, and keep public finances on a credible path.These goals can appear to conflict. In practice, the quality of the budget will depend on how well they are connected. Fiscal discipline should not mean cutting every form of spending, just as modernization should not become a label attached to projects with uncertain economic returns. The central question is whether public resources can be directed toward priorities that improve living standards and strengthen the economy without weakening fiscal sustainability.The government’s budget circular provides an early indication of that balancing act. It calls for greater capital expenditure and social protection spending, alongside spending restraint and efforts to reduce the primary deficit and public debt, which all are usually mentioned. It also sets macroeconomic assumptions of 3.1% real GDP growth in 2027 and 2.3% inflation. These are projections, not outcomes, and the circular is a framework for preparing the budget rather than the final budget law. The distinction matters. A budget can include ambitious objectives and still fall short if projects are delayed, spending is not linked to measurable results, or operating costs crowd out investment. The test is not only how much the government allocates, but whether the funds are used on time and produce lasting improvements.Jordan enters this process with some positive indicators. The economy grew by 3% year on year in the second quarter of 2026, while inflation averaged 2.26% during the first nine months. These figures point to resilience, but they do not by themselves answer the questions that matter to households and businesses: whether growth is creating enough jobs, raising incomes and encouraging private investment. Especially now so we have a high oil price affecting all the living cost. This is why capital spending deserves close attention. Investment in water, transport, energy, health and education can support economic activity now and improve the economy’s capacity later. But the word “capital” does not automatically make spending productive. Projects need to be selected on the basis of clear economic and social benefits, realistic cost estimates and the ability to complete them. A project that remains on paper cannot improve services, create business opportunities or increase productivity.Implementation is equally important. When projects begin late, the economy loses part of their potential benefit, while the budget may still carry costs. Strong preparation, transparent procurement and regular reporting can help ensure that public investment moves from allocation to completion. For major projects involving public private partnerships (PPP), the government should be clear about the risks each party carries and the long-term obligations that may fall on the state Social protection is another essential part of the budget, particularly when some households have limited room to absorb higher living costs. The circular includes an additional monthly payment of JD30 for public-sector employees, military personnel and civil and military retirees whose gross monthly income is below JD600, alongside regular annual increases. Such measures can provide direct support and help sustain household spending. Their effectiveness, however, depends on how well they reach people facing the greatest pressure and how they fit within the overall fiscal framework. Social protection should be judged by its impact, not only by the size of its allocation. Support that helps people manage temporary hardship is valuable; programs that also improve access to health, education and employment can contribute to stronger long-term outcomes.The budget process should also make clear how the government intends to pay for its priorities. If new commitments are funded mainly through borrowing, the short-term relief or investment may come with higher debt-service costs later. If they are financed through better revenue collection and more efficient spending, the trade-off may be more manageable. Strengthening public finances does not require treating every expenditure as equally expendable. It requires distinguishing between spending that delivers lasting public value and spending that can be reduced, delayed or redesigned.This is where public-sector modernization should make a practical difference. Better digital services, stronger planning and procurement, and clear performance measures can help government agencies use limited resources more effectively. Modernization should not be measured by the number of strategies, systems or new initiatives announced. It should be measured by whether people receive better services, businesses face fewer obstacles and government programs achieve their intended results.The economic forecasts in the budget framework are useful for planning, but they also carry uncertainty. External conditions, energy prices, regional developments and the performance of trading partners can affect growth, inflation and government revenue. A sound budget should therefore be built around realistic assumptions and leave room to respond if conditions change. That does not mean avoiding commitments; it means making them affordable under more than one scenario.The measure of success will not be whether the budget promises modernisation, protection and discipline at the same time. It will be whether it translates those promises into completed projects, better services, meaningful support for households and a credible path for public debt. That is how a budget can address today’s needs while expanding the country’s options for tomorrow.Faris Al Hadidi is an economist and banker.

Crown Prince to begin three-day working visit to Estonia

Wed, 04 Nov 2026 07:18:45 +0300

Jordan Daily - HRH Crown Prince Hussein will begin a three-day working visit to Estonia’s capital, Tallinn, on Wednesday.During the visit, the Crown Prince is expected to meet with EstonianPresident Alar Karis, Prime Minister Kristen Michal, Parliament Speaker Lauri Hussar and several senior officials.At the invitation of the Estonian prime minister, the Crown Prince will also attend the launch of the Tallinn Digital Summit, which brings together government officials and leaders of technology institutions to discuss opportunities and challenges associated with artificial intelligence tools.

Democratic gains mount in US midterms as Trump faces bruising verdict

Wed, 04 Nov 2026 07:12:56 +0300

AFP- Democrats notched a string of early victories in US midterm elections Tuesday, flipping a Republican-held Senate seat and making inroads in conservative House districts as President Donald Trump faced the prospect of a bruising election setback.The opposition party also retained key Senate seats, while victory in Georgia’s governor race added to mounting signs that Republicans face a difficult night.The vote was a nationwide judgment on Trump’s turbulent second term, with discontent over living costs, tariffs and the US war against Iran — which has driven fuel prices sharply higher — weighing on the president and his party.Alarm bells went off early for Republicans as counting started.Democrats captured a Republican-held House seat in North Carolina, in a district Trump won comfortably in 2024, while several contests in Florida suggested that redrawn electoral boundaries might not deliver the gains Republicans had hoped for.Although control of Congress remained undecided, those results raised the possibility of a wider Democratic advance into territory normally considered safe for Trump’s party.In a further blow to Republicans, former Atlanta mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms was projected to win Georgia’s governorship, becoming the nation’s first Black woman governor and ending 24 years of Republican rule.There were important Republican victories, however.In Florida, Trump-backed Byron Donalds won the governor’s race, becoming the state’s first Black governor, while Republican Ashley Moody retained a US Senate seat.Senate breakthroughDemocrat Roy Cooper, a popular former North Carolina governor, delivered one of the night’s most consequential results by defeating Michael Whatley, the former Republican National Committee chairman handpicked by Trump.North Carolina has voted for Trump three times, but Cooper campaigned on a pledge to lower living costs and will replace retiring Republican Senator Thom Tillis, who had clashed with the president.In Georgia, Senator Jon Ossoff, a rising Democratic figure seen as a potential 2028 presidential contender, defeated his Republican challenger and preserved a seat the party needed to defend.Democrats also held an open Senate seat in New Hampshire, where Chris Pappas won election to become the first openly gay man to serve in the chamber.Republicans began the night with 53 of the Senate’s 100 seats, leaving Democrats needing a net gain of four for control. All 435 House seats were contested, with Democrats needing to flip just three.House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries told reporters the country was “on the brink of a dramatic change of direction.”Trump faces constraintsIf Democrats capture the House, they could block Trump’s legislative plans and use congressional committees to investigate his administration over the Iran war, deportations and alleged corruption.A Senate takeover would go further, allowing them to block judicial nominees and senior administration appointments, fundamentally changing Trump’s ability to govern during the final two years of his presidency.For voters, the fight was often about the cost of everyday life.“Rent, groceries, utility bills, and property taxes keep climbing, and I want people in Congress who will actually do something about costs,” 24-year-old Los Angeles voter Taylor Cook told AFP.Trump defended his record in a final television appearance Tuesday, praising his tariffs, immigration crackdown and military campaign against Iran.“We have to keep America great. We’re great now. We were terrible two years ago,” the 80-year-old told Fox News.Reflecting Trump’s rhetoric, Republican voter Maru Restrepo, 70, told AFP in Miami that Democrats had become “very socialist,” reflecting the fierce ideological divisions of the campaign.Uncertainty remained over whether Trump would accept an unfavorable result. He has repeatedly made unsubstantiated claims of election fraud and tried to overturn his 2020 presidential defeat.“I veto everything,” Trump said in a podcast released Monday, contemplating the possibility of a Democratic Congress before adding that he might eventually negotiate deals.

The economics of patriotism: Why Jordan has a song for everything

Tue, 03 Nov 2026 12:02:30 +0300

Dr. Ahmad “Jordan” Al-Zu'BiJordan Daily - From weddings and kindergarten graduations to football victories and national mourning, Jordan's patriotic songs reveal the surprising economics of belonging.Imagine attending a wedding in Jordan. The bride and groom are dancing, families are celebrating, and suddenly a song about Jordan begins to play. Guests sing along, wave flags, and celebrate their country as enthusiastically as the newlyweds.The same happens at engagements, kindergarten graduations, university ceremonies, concerts, and football victories. A child's graduation becomes an occasion to celebrate Jordan. A football goal becomes a national achievement. Even a wedding becomes a patriotic gathering. But what happens when celebration turns into mourning?Following the October 23, 2026, attack on a church in Humoud, Karak, which reportedly killed nine Jordanians, Omar Al-Abdallat released Ya Ain Humoud La Tabki, a song of grief and solidarity. Why does a country sing about itself when its people are happiest, and again when they are grieving?Who Invited the Nation to the Wedding?Economists examine weddings through consumption: venues, food, clothing, and entertainment. Graduations represent returns on educational investment. Football victories stimulate spending. Yet Jordanian celebrations involve something less tangible: national identity.A wedding celebrates two people, but a patriotic song transforms private happiness into collective pride. Gary Becker's analysis of social behavior helps explain why people derive utility not merely from consumption, but also from relationships and social interactions.In Jordan, patriotism is not reserved for national holidays. It is invited into the ordinary moments of life and sometimes into its most painful ones.The Song Is Free. The Feeling Is Priceless.A national song is an unusual economic asset. Millions can enjoy the same recording without diminishing anyone else's experience. Economists call this non-rivalry. The more people recognize a song, the greater its potential to bring them together.That resembles a network effect: a shared cultural symbol becomes more valuable with familiarity. There are also positive externalities. A family chooses a song for its wedding, but guests may experience belonging, nostalgia, or collective pride.The value of a national song is not simply in how many people hear it, but in how many people recognize themselves in it.Why Happiness Sounds Better TogetherDaniel Kahneman showed how psychology, attention, and context shape human decisions. Music changes the emotional context of an occasion. At graduations, patriotic songs connect individual achievement with national identity; at football matches, they unite strangers in celebration.Thomas Schelling's focal points offer another explanation. People coordinate around common signals. A familiar melody serves that purpose: nobody needs instructions to sing along.But does music create solidarity, or does existing solidarity explain the choice of music? Both mechanisms may operate. Shared experiences may reinforce identity, although causality remains difficult to establish.One Flag, Millions of VoicesJordanian patriotic songs express attachment to the country's history, armed forces, institutions, and Hashemite monarchy, including King Abdullah II, Queen Rania, and Crown Prince Hussein.Douglass North explained why informal institutions matter. Societies depend not only on laws but also on shared norms, traditions, and expectations. Music can transmit these symbols across generations.Yet not every patriotic performance demonstrates deep conviction. Some reflect custom or social expectations. National unity does not require identical political opinions, and music cannot substitute for good governance.When Eleven Players Become a Nation's DreamsWhen Jordan qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, millions celebrated an achievement belonging to eleven players and their teammates. Why should someone who never touched the ball feel such pride?Social identity theory suggests people derive satisfaction from group achievements. Omar Al-Abdallat's Hayna Jeena, produced with Jordan Kuwait Bank, illustrates how national pride intersects with commercial sponsorship.A bank can sponsor a patriotic song, but it cannot own the national pride the song inspires. Sponsorship may generate private returns through brand recognition while creating cultural benefits beyond customers.The match ends. The campaign ends. But the music may endure. Months later, the same voice celebrating Jordan's football triumph would express a very different national emotion.The Man Who Sings When Jordan Celebrates—and MournsHaving lived and traveled across five continents, I have encountered people beyond Jordan who recognize Omar Al-Abdallat's music. I met him briefly once and was struck by his humility. His significance, however, extends beyond celebrity: his songs accompany moments of national pride and grief.Ya Ain Humoud La Tabki mourned the Karak victims, invoking solidarity among Jordanians, Muslims and Christians alike, united in grief and belonging.The solidarity extended beyond music. Jordanians rushed to donate blood following the attack, turning expressions of national belonging into practical assistance. For economists, that distinction matters: shared identity becomes especially consequential when people are willing to bear costs for others.Here, risk economics offers an important distinction. Insurance can compensate for financial losses. But when tragedy strikes, no insurance policy can replace the value of a nation standing together.Elinor Ostrom's research shows how shared norms can support cooperation. A song cannot reverse death, replace compensation, or deliver justice. But it can express that another person's loss matters beyond their immediate family. Can You Hear the Wealth of a Nation?Economists measure prosperity through income, productivity, investment, and employment. Yet societies also possess less visible resources: trust, cooperation, shared identity, and collective memory—elements of social capital.Patriotic songs cannot eliminate unemployment, inequality, or institutional weaknesses. Singing together does not prove economic success. But shared cultural practices may sustain relationships on which cooperation depends.At weddings, songs connect happiness with national pride. At graduations, achievement with belonging. At football victories, strangers with collective celebration. Following tragedy, they provide a language for mourning.A nation's wealth is not only what its people produce, but also what they are willing to share, especially when no contract requires them to care.At a wedding, Jordanians sing because they are happy. Following the tragedy in Karak, a song gave voice to their grief.The emotions were different. The country they were singing about was the same.

Queen Rania Teacher Academy receives international accreditation for institutional excellence

Tue, 03 Nov 2026 10:51:09 +0300

Jordan Daily - The Queen Rania Teacher Academy (QRTA) has become the first institution to receive the Organisation of Excellence Accreditation from the UK-based CPD Standards Office, marking a significant milestone in its efforts to strengthen institutional performance and enhance the quality of services it provides to teachers, educational leaders, and partners.The accreditation was granted following a comprehensive assessment under the Organisation of Excellence Standard #41000, covering seven key areas including, organisational context, leadership, planning, support, operations, improvement, and educational performance. Through this assessment, QRTA demonstrated its commitment to quality management, effective institutional practices, and continuous improvement.The accreditation provides a structured approach for assessing institutional performance, identifying areas for improvement, and strengthening the systems used to plan, deliver, and evaluate professional development programs. By building on these practices, QRTA aims to improve operational efficiency, strengthen coordination across its teams, and ensure greater consistency and responsiveness in the services it delivers.Commenting on the achievement, QRTA CEO, Abdelmajeed Shamlawi, said that “receiving this accreditation is an important step in our aspiration to become a more effective and responsive institution. It gives us a framework to continuously improve how we plan, operate, and deliver our professional development programs. Ultimately, our goal is to implement strong institutional practices that create better experiences for teachers, educational leaders, and partners.”Co-Founder of the CPD Standards Office, Ms. Amanda Rosewarne noted that: “We are delighted to recognise Queen Rania Teacher Academy as the first organisation in Jordan to achieve our Organisation of Excellence Accreditation. It is an honour to work with QRTA and to support an organisation that demonstrates such a strong commitment to organisational excellence, quality management and continuous improvement for the teaching community.“At the CPD Standards Office, we believe that excellence in professional development starts with excellence within the organisation itself. Having robust systems, effective leadership and a culture of continuous improvement creates the foundations for delivering high-quality professional learning and, ultimately, better outcomes for the professionals and communities an organisation serves.“QRTA has demonstrated a real commitment to these principles, and we hope its achievement will inspire other organisations across Jordan and the wider region to pursue similar standards of institutional excellence.”Based in the United Kingdom, The CPD Standards Office establishes standards for continuing professional development (CPD) and assesses institutions against recognised criteria, including, quality, professional practices, and institutional performance. Its Organisation of Excellence Accreditation recognises institutions that meet the requirements of its assessment framework across key management and operations areas.The accreditation will serve as a reference point for QRTA’s ongoing institutional development, helping align internal practices with the needs of those it serves. Through this accreditation, QRTA seeks to strengthen its contribution to improving teaching practices and enriching students’ learning experiences.

Trump says deal with Iran ‘could happen’

Tue, 03 Nov 2026 07:15:15 +0300

Agencies- President Donald Trump said on Monday that ‌Iran ‌wants to ‌make a deal to end the US war against ‌Tehran and ‌that such ‌an ‌agreement “could happen.”“Oil Prices are DROPPING LIKE A ROCK, down almost $10 a Barrel, A RECORD, because people feel that there will not be a War with Iran. Iran wants a settlement, as soon as possible. It could happen!” Trump posted ahead of Tuesday’s midterm elections.He did ‌not immediately provide details.The US president’s remarks came after Tehran revealed indirect negotiations with Washington and offered to reopen the Strait of Hormuz under strict conditions.US Vice President JD Vance separately said that both he and Trump were optimistic about securing an agreement.Vance sent a letter to Iran’s security chief, Mohsen Rezaei, last week, but the White House has offered scant details about the contents of that correspondence. Trump told reporters that letter was focused on assisting Iran with “medical supplies and various things.”But Vance on Monday suggested there’s reason to believe that the US and Iran could still come to an agreement.“We’ve had a number of good conversations with the Iranians,” Vance told reporters on Monday when asked about the letter. “I actually just spoke with the president of the United States about an hour ago about this. Look, the president and I both feel pretty good about the prospects for potentially coming to a negotiated settlement. We’re going to keep on working at it.”Vance’s comments came as the region remains on edge about the prospects of the US resuming full-scale operations against Iran. The backchannel efforts are playing out as Israel and some Middle East allies lobby Trump on the way ahead in the 8-month-old war that’s rattled global markets and wreaked havoc on Iran.

Crown Prince meets with Saudi crown prince in Riyadh

Tue, 03 Nov 2026 13:01:26 +0300

Jordan Daily - HRH Crown Prince Hussein on Monday met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the prime minister of Saudi Arabia.During the meeting, held in Riyadh, His Royal Highness conveyed His Majesty King Abdullah’s regards to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia, as well as his greetings to the Saudi crown prince, and his best wishes for the continued progress and prosperity of the Saudi people.The Saudi crown prince also conveyed his regards to His Majesty King Abdullah.His Royal Highness affirmed Jordan’s full solidarity with Saudi Arabia, and its support for all measures taken to counter attacks targeting its security, sovereignty, and the safety of its citizens and residents, emphasising that Saudi Arabia’s security is inseparable from Jordan’s, and that the security of the Gulf states is vital to the stability of the region.The two sides expressed their pride in the strong historical ties between the two countries and their peoples, and their commitment to broadening the scope of cooperation across all fields.The meeting also underscored the importance of sustained coordination and consultation in advancing mutual interests and championing Arab and Muslim causes.The Saudi crown prince hosted a dinner banquet in honour of His Royal Highness and the accompanying Jordanian delegation.Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Maj. Gen. Majdi Al Harasis, and Director of the Office of the Crown Prince Zaid Baqain attended the meeting.From the Saudi side, Deputy Governor of Riyadh Region Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz, Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah, and Minister of State and Council of Ministers of Saudi Arabia member Khalid bin Abdulrahman Al Issa attended the meeting.

King inaugurates 20th Parliament’s third ordinary session, delivers Speech from the Throne

Mon, 02 Nov 2026 14:39:54 +0300

Jordan Daily - Majesty King Abdullah II on Monday inaugurated the third ordinary session of the 20th Parliament and delivered the Speech from the Throne.Following is the full English translation of the Speech from the Throne:“In the Name of God, the Compassionate, the MercifulPrayers and peace be upon our Prophet Mohammad,Honourable Senators,Honourable Representatives,Peace, God’s mercy and blessings be upon you.In the name of God, and with His blessings, we inaugurate the third ordinary session of the Twentieth Parliament.A few days ago, the treacherous hand of terror sought to test our state’s resilience and our people’s resolve. But we will not back down. We will not allow the terrorists, the khawarej, to undermine the security and unity of this nation. They have no place among us. They have no place in our great Jordanian family. They betrayed it. They have no place in our midst… not now, not ever.The blood of the Karak martyrs is a solemn pledge we will carry, and I ask you to observe a moment of silence in memory of the martyrs.Honourable Senators,Honourable Representatives,Jordan has stood and will forever stand firm against those who seek to threaten its security or undermine its sovereignty; and it remains a force to be reckoned with against any who dare to dismiss the great history and legacy of this nation.This blessed land is defended by formidable soldiers whose unwavering vigilance, day and night, ensures that Jordanians rest secure in the certainty that they are always protected. Our brave Arab Army and security agencies put their lives on the line, vowing to ensure that Jordan’s defences remain impenetrable and its flag flies high and proud.Jordan’s strength lies in its people—the more severe the trials, the greater their unity, insight, and wisdom.I continue to place my faith in Jordanians, in their awareness during times of uncertainty, their wisdom when emotions run high, and their devotion and dedication when adversity strikes.Honourable Senators,Honourable Representatives,Distinguished guests,We remain unshakeable in our convictions, holding fast to our Arab identity and to the defence of its causes—as my father did before me, and my son will after me—so that a united Arab voice remains our aspiration and goal, however distant it may seem.We reiterate, time and again, that there can be no security or stability in our region without upholding the Palestinian people’s right to their homeland. Despite international calls for an end to Israel’s violations, the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza continues, as do the relentless attacks in the West Bank and Jerusalem, whilst Israel’s expansionist ambitions remain the greatest threat to the region’s future and hopes.But the people will not forget.Whoever believes that tyranny will confer legitimacy is mistaken.Whoever believes that time will distort the truth is mistaken.And whoever believes that Jordanians will compromise their principles is also mistaken.Honourable Senators,Honourable Representatives,Your esteemed Parliament stands as the cornerstone of our political life, as the nation is the source of all powers and the bedrock of its strength. By upholding this principle, our national front remains secure and resilient. For a strong Jordan can defend its interests, champion Arab causes, fulfil its responsibilities, and remain a steadfast pillar of support to those in need.Your Parliament should be the voice of the nation, the guardian of public interest, and the oversight power over government performance, always placing the interests of Jordanians first. Your differences of opinion are a source of strength, as long as the national interest remains your shared goal.Jordanians judge this body not only by the laws it passes, but by the conduct and rhetoric under this dome.Distinguished guests,I address you from this platform to reaffirm, as I have always done, that the interests of every Jordanian must lie at the heart of every decision—never an afterthought. True development manifests in the lived experiences of citizens, in the impact they feel in their daily lives and opportunities, their education and healthcare, and the future of their children.Today, as we move ahead on the path towards economic modernisation, work has started on a number of ambitious mega projects aimed at bolstering the foundations of our national economy, enhancing its resilience, and advancing Jordan’s pivotal role in the region. And I call upon the government to expedite progress in these strategic initiatives.Water, water, water!Water security is a pillar of our national sovereignty, and under no circumstances will we allow the Jordanian people’s unassailable right to access water to be held hostage. On this matter, there is no room for compromise or appeasement.I therefore direct the government to continue with its water security projects and to work on developing proactive plans to protect the nation’s resources, in order to ensure their sustainability and safeguard the rights of future generations.Honourable Senators,Honourable Representatives,Distinguished guests,There is no place in our nation for anyone who treats public office as a badge of prestige rather than a duty of service.Nor shall there be immunity for anyone who abuses their position, whoever they may be. The authority of the state and the rule of law must prevail above all else.The law recognises neither name, nor position, nor influence.My fellow Jordanians,My people,My enduring source of strength,It is your legitimate right to engage in public debate, a right enshrined in the Constitution. This nation, and its leadership, have always welcomed every sincere and responsible opinion. And those who love Jordan acknowledge how much it has given them, and honour it through the dignity of their words, and the civility with which they express their differences.I place my trust in you, my people and my tribe, and your welfare and the honour of this nation are a sacred trust I bear. After God, I rely on you, and your devotion to this land, so that Jordan may always remain strong, distinguished, and held in the highest regard.Peace, God’s mercy and blessings be upon you.”Earlier, an official ceremony was held upon His Majesty’s arrival at Parliament, accompanied by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II.The King was received by the heads of the three branches of government, and several senior officials and officers.Her Majesty Queen Rania Al Abdullah, His Royal Highness Prince Hashem bin Abdullah II, a number of Royal Family members, senior officials and officers, as well as members of the Arab and foreign diplomatic corps in Jordan attended the speech.

Markazia Group showcases integrated mobility and technology solutions at SOFEX 2026 in Aqaba

Mon, 02 Nov 2026 09:57:31 +0300

Jordan Daily - Markazia Group took part as a Silver Sponsor in the 15th edition of the Special Operations Forces Exhibition and Conference (SOFEX 2026), held in Aqaba under the Royal patronage and in the presence of His Majesty King Abdullah II ibn Al Hussein. The event was also attended by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II, alongside senior government and military officials and representatives of national and international institutions.At the exhibition, Markazia Group highlighted its deep expertise in the automotive and mobility sector, presenting a wide array of models and advanced technologies that combine performance, reliability and innovation. Its presence underscored a commitment to delivering integrated mobility solutions to multiple industries, strengthening ties with national institutions and supporting road safety efforts throughout the Kingdom.Founded in 1999, Markazia Group brings 27 years of experience to Jordan’s automotive and mobility sector, having built a strong market position through a portfolio of international brands, a comprehensive range of products and services and an extensive network of authorized service centers across the country. Drawing on this know-how and its long-standing partnerships, Markazia Group keeps refining its offerings in step with technological progress and the changing needs of individuals and businesses.At SOFEX 2026, Markazia Group displayed a selection from the Toyota Land Cruiser family, including the Land Cruiser Hybrid, Land Cruiser Prado and the all-new Land Cruiser FJ. Together, they traced the evolution of the nameplate’s enduring legacy, showcasing the dependability, strong performance and exceptional capabilities that have long defined it on every kind of terrain and in all driving conditions.Meanwhile, Yamaha’s lineup of motorcycles and off-road vehicles, featuring the RMAX4 LE, MTT850P, WR450F, Grizzly, TW200, Raptor and NMAX, demonstrated the brand’s versatility for a broad spectrum of uses and operating requirements, from demanding environments to challenging landscapes.Technology also took center stage through Connected Motion, Markazia Group’s subsidiary specializing in intelligent mobility solutions. It presented fleet management systems, vehicle tracking technologies and inspection tools – helping businesses operate more efficiently, manage resources effectively and enhance safety, while reflecting its approach of integrating vehicles, digital capabilities and specialized services.Commenting on the occasion, Nadim Haddad, Markazia Group CEO, said, “Our participation in SOFEX 2026 reflects our vision for the future of mobility in Jordan, bringing together our longstanding automotive expertise and innovative technologies to address the evolving needs of individuals and organizations. In line with His Majesty King Abdullah II’s directives on the importance of public-private partnerships, we believe that meaningful collaboration, knowledge sharing and innovation are essential to improving efficiency and safety while contributing to development locally. We are proud to continue working with our national institutions towards a more advanced and safer transport ecosystem.”Markazia Group’s presence at SOFEX 2026 aligns with its ongoing support for national initiatives, chief among them road safety. That support includes sustained cooperation with the Public Security Directorate and the Jordan Traffic Institute, and its role in the Road Safety Hackathon. The hackathon underlines Markazia Group’s dedication to encouraging innovation and empowering young people to develop practical answers to traffic challenges that make Jordan’s roads safer.Through this engagement, Markazia Group reaffirms its commitment to investing in expertise and pioneering ideas while expanding cooperation with national institutions, reinforcing its contribution to the mobility sector and to the Kingdom’s wider development priorities.

Dr. Anwar Obeidat to participate in Ecomondo 2026, explore environmental partnerships

Mon, 02 Nov 2026 09:48:38 +0300

Jordan Daily - Dr. Anwar Obeidat, Chairman of Madina International Trading Co. Ltd. and Chief Executive Officer of Climate Pro for Environmental Consultancy, will participate in Ecomondo 2026, the international exhibition dedicated to green technology, environmental innovation, sustainability, and the circular economy, taking place at the Rimini Expo Centre in Italy from November 3 to 6, 2026.Recognised as one of the leading international platforms for the green economy and circular economy, Ecomondo brings together industry leaders, environmental experts, technology providers, investors, policymakers, and institutions from around the world. The exhibition provides an important opportunity to explore emerging technologies, exchange expertise, establish international partnerships, and identify new investment and business opportunities in the environmental sector.Dr. Obeidat’s participation reflects his longstanding involvement in the healthcare and environmental sectors, representing two complementary business activities.As Chairman of Madina International Trading Co. Ltd., Dr. Obeidat represents a company with a history dating back to 1992 and extensive experience in the healthcare sector, particularly in medical waste management and treatment. The company has been active in addressing the challenges associated with healthcare waste, contributing to safer practices and improved environmental protection through specialised services and solutions.In addition, Dr. Obeidat participates in the exhibition in his capacity as CEO of Climate Pro (Al-Amthal for Environmental Consultancy), a limited liability company established in 2024. Climate Pro focuses on environmental consultancy and climate-related issues, providing expertise in areas including climate change, carbon footprint assessment, environmental studies, and sustainability initiatives.The company’s establishment reflects the growing importance of integrating environmental considerations and climate action into business strategies, industrial operations, and development plans.The participation of both companies in Ecomondo 2026 represents an opportunity to strengthen international connections, explore innovative environmental technologies, identify potential cooperation with European and international companies, and examine solutions that can contribute to the development of Jordan’s environmental and sustainability sectors.With increasing global attention being directed towards climate change, resource efficiency, sustainable industrial development, and responsible waste management, international exhibitions such as Ecomondo provide an important platform for connecting expertise, technology, and business opportunities.For Dr. Obeidat, participation in the exhibition is also part of a broader vision: strengthening the relationship between business development, environmental responsibility, and sustainable economic growth, while exploring opportunities to bring international experience and innovative solutions to Jordan and the wider region.

Trump says ‘at some point’ US will have to give Iran ‘the hammer’

Mon, 02 Nov 2026 06:24:13 +0300

AFP- US President Donald Trump has renewed his threat to launch military strikes against Iran, saying Washington may eventually have to “give them the hammer,” as Tehran warned that any renewed conflict could last longer than the previous round of fighting.Speaking at a campaign rally in Iowa on Sunday, a day before the US midterm elections, Trump said he had held back from further attacks because he wanted to avoid additional casualties.“The only reason why I'm not finished with Iran is I want to be nice. I want to try and save all those lives if I can,” he told supporters. “But at some point we're going to have to give them the hammer.”Trump had earlier told reporters that Washington still needed to deal with one or two remaining targets in Iran, suggesting they could be struck within minutes. He specifically mentioned Pickaxe Mountain, a suspected underground nuclear complex.His latest remarks came amid uncertainty over diplomatic efforts to prevent a resumption of the US-Israeli military campaign against Iran, which began on Feb. 28.US media reported that Trump spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday about negotiations with Tehran and the possibility of escalating military operations. Axios reported that Netanyahu was pressing for an immediate strike after the US midterm elections, while Trump wanted to give diplomacy more time.‘No geographical limitations’Iranian army spokesman Mohammad Akraminia warned that another war could last longer than the previous conflict, saying Washington would not be able to dictate its timing or terms.Revolutionary Guards spokesman Hossein Mohebbi echoed the warning, saying there would be “no geographical limitations” to the battlefield in a confrontation with Washington.Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran remained prepared for both diplomacy and defense, expressing hope that Washington would choose negotiations.Iran's security chief Mohsen Rezaei said he had received a letter from US Vice President JD Vance seeking to revive talks, although Tehran had yet to respond.Iran has demanded the release of frozen assets, an end to the US naval blockade of its ports, sanctions relief and a comprehensive end to the fighting. The Strait of Hormuz, a vital global energy shipping route, remains a major point of contention.‘Braced for the worst’Anwar Gargash, diplomatic adviser to the UAE president, said the Emirates hoped diplomatic efforts would produce a breakthrough but was preparing for renewed fighting.“It is not the interest of the region to go through another round,” he told a conference in Manama, adding that the UAE was “braced for the worst.”

King to open third ordinary session of Parliament

Mon, 02 Nov 2026 06:19:36 +0300

Jordan Daily - His Majesty King Abdullah will open the third ordinary session of the 20th Parliament on Monday, delivering the Speech from the Throne before a joint session of the Senate and House of Representatives.The session was postponed by Royal Decree until November 2, 2026.Following the speech, the Senate will select a committee to draft its response to the royal address.The annual constitutional occasion outlines the kingdom's political, economic and social priorities, including reform efforts, regional developments and Jordan's position on the Palestinian cause and the protection of Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem under Hashemite Custodianship.

Libya’s Mohamed Buhdeima named winner of sixth FIA MENA Esports Championship

Sun, 01 Nov 2026 15:44:18 +0300

Jordan Daily - Six editions, six different champions. That is the tally of the FIA MENA Esports Championship after Libya’s Mohamed Buhdeima etched his name onto the trophy as its sixth winner, on a rain-soaked night at the Circuit of Spa-Francorchamps that fans lived through inside The ARC Esports Arena at King Hussein Business Park in the Jordanian capital, Amman.The road to the title was not easy. For the first time in the finals’ history, drivers took the wheel of a single-seater – the Dallara SF23 Super Formula car, a temperamental machine that leaves behind anyone slow to understand it.Shock in CanadaThe contenders were split across two groups for the semi-finals at Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve, and the upset arrived early. Iraq’s Mohamed Hadi, the 2024 titleholder, started second in Group 1 before descending to 10th, 52 seconds behind the leader. Unable to adapt to the Super Formula car, he exited the competition before its final stop.At the front, Lebanon’s Marvin El Murr made his mark, winning from third on the grid and finishing 4.2 seconds clear of Buhdeima, while Oman’s Wassif Al Kharusi completed the podium and set the quickest lap of the group.Group 2 was a one-man show. Sami-Joe Abi Nakhle started from pole and led to the flag, leaving Tunisia’s Karim Chouiref more than seven seconds adrift and setting the fastest lap of the entire semi-final round (1:18.834). Algeria’s Mohamed Kheireddine Kouadri took third, while Jordan’s Sham Abu Jabal thrilled the home crowd by climbing from seventh to fourth to book his seat in the final.
A Decisive Call in the Closing MinutesThen came the Circuit of Spa-Francorchamps, bringing the rain with it. In qualifying, everyone stuck with intermediate tires and waited. Only three drivers read the track differently: Buhdeima,Chouiref and the UAE’s Mohamed Idris. In the last minutes, as the circuit began to dry, they switched to soft tires and went on the attack.The gamble paid off. Buhdeima snatched pole position with a 1:52.384, ahead of Chouiref, less than a second back, and Idris in third place, while Abi Nakhle could manage only fourth and El Murr seventh.One Sky, Two BetsWhen the lights went out, El Murr provided the surprise, rocketing from seventh to second with a stunning start, while Buhdeima held the lead with ice-cool nerves.But the real story was unfolding beneath the cars. The Lebanese duo, El Murr and Abi Nakhle, started the race on full wet tires, the rest of the field on intermediates. Then the pit window opened. Half the 12-car field dived into the pits and switched to softs. Abi Nakhle refused, staying out for two extra laps, convinced the rain would not let up. When he finally pitted, he rejoined on intermediates. At that very moment, the clouds parted.Abi Nakhle was by far the quickest on track and set the final’s fastest lap (1:53.089), but pace alone was no longer enough. He finished fourth, just 5.8 seconds off the podium, while El Murr slipped back to fifth.Cool Heads Win TitlesBuhdeima did not make a single mistake. He crossed the line first, 6.1 seconds ahead of Chouiref, who repeated his runner-up finish from the semi-final. Idris secured the last spot in the top three with a spotless drive, turning his qualifying gamble into a hard-won cup. Remarkably, Buhdeima had lost his semi-final heat to El Murr, but on the night that counted, he knew exactly when to take a risk and when to simply protect what he had.The competition was organized directly by Jordan Motorsport and Desert Fox Racing, under the watchful eye of FIA officials, as part of the MENA Sim Racing Festival.Buhdeima’s next stop is Shanghai. There, on December 12, he will take the stage at the FIA Awards ceremony to collect his trophy, the latest champion in a series that refuses to crown anyone twice.

Jordanian director Ahmad Jaber’s “JAD” selected for official competition at Timimoun Festival

Sun, 01 Nov 2026 13:00:41 +0300

Jordan Daily - Jordanian short animated film “JAD,” directed by Ahmad Jaber, will compete in the official animation category at the second edition of the Timimoun International Short Film Festival in Algeria, scheduled to run from Nov. 5 to 10, 2026.The film will make its world premiere at the festival, marking a new international showcase for Jordanian cinema and animation.“JAD” will compete alongside other works in the festival’s official animation selection, highlighting Jordanian contributions to animated filmmaking and the country’s growing creative output in visual storytelling.The festival provides a platform for the Jordanian production to reach an international audience and offers an opportunity to strengthen the visibility of Jordanian animation filmmakers across the Arab region and beyond.

When authenticity meets art: LAPADA Fair brings galleries and collectors to London

Sun, 01 Nov 2026 12:27:37 +0300

Jordan Daily - When authenticity meets art, history and craftsmanship take centre stage. That spirit is on display at the LAPADA Art & Antiques Fair, taking place in London’s Mayfair from 27 October to 1 November 2026.The LAPADA Art & Antiques Fair is now under way at Berkeley Square, brings together nearly 100 specialist galleries and dealers representing a broad range of artistic and historical disciplines. Fine-art exhibitors include Gladwell & Patterson, Portland Gallery, Whitford Fine Art, Winsor Birch, MacConnal-Mason Galleries, Rebecca Hossack and Walker Galleries. The fair also features specialists in antiques, furniture, sculpture, silver, ceramics and design, including Adrian Alan Ltd, the Sladmore Gallery, Butchoff Antiques, Lennox Cato Antiques, Koopman Rare Art, Jacksons Antique and Florian Kolhammer. Together, the exhibitors offer visitors the opportunity to explore works from different periods and engage directly with specialists across the art and antiques market.Organised by LAPADA- the Association of Art & Antiques Dealers-the fair showcases fine art, antiques, jewellery, furniture, decorative arts and design. Visitors can explore works from different periods and meet the dealers presenting them. Exhibitors include galleries such as Gladwell & Patterson, Portland Gallery, Whitford Fine Art, MacConnal-Mason Galleries and Winsor Birch, as well as specialists in sculpture, silver, furniture, ceramics and 20th-century design.Winsor Birch is exhibiting at Stand A3 with a presentation focused on Victorian and Pre-Raphaelite works. The artists represented include Dante Gabriel Rossetti, Edward Burne-Jones, Simeon Solomon, Frederic Leighton, Walter Crane, Elizabeth Eleanor Siddal and John William Godward.Among the works on display is Rossetti’s A Christmas Carol(1867), shown above a Meissen exhibition cabinet dating from 1900.
The Winsor Birch presentation also features Rossetti’s Portrait of Jane Morris(1873), a pen-and-brown-ink drawing signed with the artist’s monogram and dated January 1873. Morris was a prominent figure in the Pre-Raphaelite circle and a frequent model for Rossetti. The portrait reportedly resurfaced in 2015 after spending many decades in a private collection.Jordanian-British artist Rawan Al Adwan, who is based in Switzerland, travelled from Geneva to London after receiving an invitation to attend the art fair.

Iranian envoys meet Qatari mediators as threat looms of US strikes after midterms

Sun, 01 Nov 2026 07:24:24 +0300

Reuters - Iranian negotiators held talks in Doha with Qatari mediators on Saturday to discuss paths out of war in the Gulf, a source who was briefed on the negotiations told Reuters, as diplomats try to avert new fighting after the US midterm elections this week.US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Saturday that President Donald Trump has not decided whether to launch new strikes against Iran, but would prefer to resolve the conflict diplomatically.Trump has held off on strikes on Iran in recent weeks ahead of midterm elections that will determine whether his Republican Party will retain its thin majorities in both houses of the US Congress.Saturday’s talks in the Qatari capital followed more than 12 hours of discussions on Friday between Iranian and Qatari envoys in Tehran, said the source, who spoke on condition of anonymity. The source ‌said the talks ‌were being coordinated in regular contacts with Washington.Countries in the region have been anticipating that Trump could ‌restart ⁠attacks once the ⁠voting is over. Iran has repeatedly said it would respond to any new attacks by striking at US and Israeli targets in neighboring countries.Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei issued a statement on Saturday ordering the armed forces to be prepared to respond to any attacks. The Iranian military later announced it was taking steps to improve its readiness.“Any level or type of threat must be met with an immediate, impactful, and geographically unrestricted response,” Khamenei said on Saturday in the statement posted on his official Telegram account. He has not appeared in public since replacing his father, who was slain at the war’s outset.Khamenei said senior commanders had reported high readiness along the Gulf coast, in and around the Strait of Hormuz ⁠and Gulf of Oman, and on Iran’s northwestern and southeastern borders.Iran’s influential security chief Mohsen Rezaei said ‌Tehran was debating whether to lift its longstanding ban on nuclear weapons should hostilities resume, although ‌he said no such decision had been taken. There could be no talks on Iran’s nuclear program unless Washington accepted Iran’s demands, he added.Rubio, hosting foreign ‌ministers of the G20 major economies in Atlanta, declined to set a timeframe for the talks in Qatar, but said direct and ‌indirect contacts with Iran were under way.“There are multiple talks. Talks have actually never stopped,” he said.Trump would “prefer to solve it diplomatically. But I think what the president expresses to you is incredible confidence that if we needed to do something militarily, we would have the ability to do it,” Rubio said.Diplomacy continues despite gapsTrump, who launched the war alongside Israel in February, has repeatedly hinted at plans to restart strikes on Iran. Last week he called on ‌Israelis ahead of their own election to keep his wartime ally Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in power so the two leaders can “finish the job.”But Washington has also lately taken steps to ⁠indicate it is open to diplomacy. Earlier ⁠this week, Vice President JD Vance, who led the US delegation at previous rounds of talks with Iran, wrote a letter to the security chief Rezaei, which the New York Times and Wall Street Journal described as an initiative to see if it was possible to restart talks.Trump has played the letter down, saying he approved it only to discuss the possibility of letting more medical supplies into Iran: “I said if you want to do that, that’s ok. Basically, it’s getting supplies in to help people that are not well.”In the latest Qatari-mediated discussions, the Qataris brought a proposal to Tehran a week ago for a seven-day plan, under which the US and Iran would take daily steps to build trust ahead of broader peace talks, the source briefed on the negotiations said. A senior Iranian official told Reuters on Friday that this proposal was not deemed satisfactory by Tehran.Iran has been proposing its own seven-day plan since September, so far rejected by Trump. That calls for Washington to lift a blockade of Iranian ports, unfreeze assets and approve an Iranian-backed route through the Strait of Hormuz, after which the contested strait would be reopened.Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said in remarks reported by Al Jazeera on Saturday that Iran was studying Vance’s letter. He said the Iranian plan was the only proposal on the table to reopen the strait.

Israel may face new election in Knesset deadlock

Sat, 31 Oct 2026 08:45:46 +0300

AP, Reuters - Political horse-trading was underway in Israel on Friday after a final tally confirmed that neither major bloc won enough seats in this week’s parliamentary election to form a government.Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s group lost its majority but still won 53 seats, the main opposition bloc led by Gadi Eisenkot won 48, and Arab-led parties secured an unprecedented 19. Now parties must find a way to team up for 61 seats in the 120-seat Knesset.“Now comes the hard part,” centrist politician Yair Lapid said. “If you want to know if something’s happening behind the silence, the answer is yes.”The results will be submitted next Wednesday to President Isaac Herzog, who will task someone with forming a government. If several attempts fail, Israel faces a new election next year.Amid the coalition talks, the new Knesset will be sworn in on Nov. 10. Eisenkot’s bloc could join forces with the Arab parties to elect a new Speaker, giving them control over the parliamentary agenda and enabling them to pass legislation.Israelis have been holding rallies urging Eisenkot to link up with the Arab-led parties, which has happened only once before, in 2021.“We should join forces and cooperate with the Arab parties, a legitimate population in the state of Israel,” said Miri Sklair, from Jaffa.

Al-Kindi Hospital holds first aid awareness lecture for female students at Al-Hikma Schools

Fri, 30 Oct 2026 13:38:37 +0300

Jordan Daily - Al-Kindi Hospital’s Education and Training Department held an awareness lecture on first aid for female students at Al-Hikma Secondary Schools, highlighting the importance of emergency preparedness and the role of basic first aid in saving lives.The lecture aimed to equip students with essential knowledge and skills to respond appropriately to medical emergencies, emphasizing the importance of prompt and effective action while waiting for professional medical assistance.It also highlighted the role of first aid in preserving lives, preventing the deterioration of injuries and medical conditions, and improving recovery prospects through timely initial care.The initiative is part of Al-Kindi Hospital’s ongoing efforts to support educational and awareness activities and promote a culture of health, prevention and safety among students and the wider community.Al-Kindi Hospital is a private healthcare facility offering a wide range of medical specialties and specialised services. Its facilities include centres for bariatric and plastic surgery, liposuction, vascular surgery, fertility treatment, lithotripsy, interventional radiology and cancer screening, including breast cancer detection.The hospital also provides organ transplantation, cardiac catheterisation and open-heart surgery, as well as gastrointestinal and biliary endoscopy services. Its emergency department is equipped with modern medical equipment and supported by a fleet of ambulances.

Dar Al Dawa reports 59% growth in nine-month net profit

Fri, 30 Oct 2026 07:43:09 +0300

Jordan Daily - Dar Al Dawa Development and Investment Company recorded net sales of JD61.15 million in the first nine months of 2026, up 9 per cent from JD56.04 million in the corresponding period of 2025.Gross profit rose by 19 per cent to JD27.57 million, while net profit increased by 59 per cent to JD4.62 million, according to a disclosure filed with the Amman Stock Exchange on Thursday.Chairman Akram Jerab, said the results built on the company's performance in previous years and reflected a strategic vision implemented by the executive management despite regional and global challenges.Jerab commended the efforts of the executive management and staff, reaffirming the board's support for initiatives aimed at sustaining growth and generating value for shareholders.Chief Executive Officer Khaled Harb, said the 19 per cent increase in gross profit reflected continued improvements in operational efficiency, contributing to the 59 per cent rise in net profit.Harb added that the company would continue to strengthen its research and production capabilities while expanding strategic partnerships to supply high-quality pharmaceutical products to regional and international markets.Established in 1975, Dar Al Dawa operates seven manufacturing plants in Jordan and Algeria. The company has also begun construction of a new pharmaceutical factory in Saudi Arabia after obtaining an industrial investment licence.

Arab list says Netanyahu election accusations show his ‘fear’ of their power

Fri, 30 Oct 2026 07:24:48 +0300

AFP- The Arab Joint List said Thursday that accusations of impropriety in Israel’s election from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his bloc showed their fear of the Arab community’s newfound political clout.“The Joint List asserts that the campaign of incitement led by Netanyahu and his fascist coalition against the Arab public’s vote exposes their fear of its political strength,” it said, urging the anti-Netanyahu “opposition camp to stop echoing the lies.”Netanyahu’s bloc on Thursday piled pressure on Arab leaders over unproven accusations of foreign funding, in a push to neuter parties that could hold the key to forming a government after an inconclusive election.Israeli President Isaac Herzog called for an investigation into allegations of fraud but cautioned against stigmatizing the entire Arab Israeli community, who voted at unprecedented rates.Israel was nearing the completion of ballot-counting from Tuesday’s election, in which neither Netanyahu nor the opposition bloc led by former military chief Gadi Eisenkot looked able to secure a majority in the parliament known as the Knesset.The Netanyahu camp’s accusations, which a key Arab party has rejected, could bring uncertainty to the electoral process at a time when the threat of a return to war with Iran looms over the region.Israel’s election saw soaring participation by Arabs, descendants of Palestinians who stayed after the country’s creation in 1948, as outrage boiled at calls by officials such as extremist National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir to treat their community much as Israel has dealt with Palestinians in Gaza and the occupied West Bank.Following Netanyahu’s accusations of impropriety, Ben Gvir went so far as to encourage Israel to “immediately” order the arrests of Arab party leaders.Raam party leader Mansour Abbas said he welcomed an investigation into claims of wrongdoing, adding that his moderate Islamist party had “no connection” with the accusations.The Arab parties together have enough votes to take the opposition bloc over the finish line, but Eisenkot has baulked after relentless attacks by Netanyahu, who warned his right-wing Jewish base that voting for the opposition would put Arabs in power.‘Political earthquake’Supreme Court Justice Noam Sohlberg, a conservative who heads the Central Election Commission, requested an investigation by the Shin Bet security service into allegations that Raam received money from Qatar.“The Raamgate scandal is a political earthquake. Israel’s elections have been stolen!” Netanyahu’s Likud party said.Government officials did not offer evidence to back the allegations, and left-wing candidate Yair Golan accused Netanyahu of attempting to stir controversy after failing to get a majority.“Now he is trying to challenge the election results through an ugly delegitimization campaign against the will of the people, and against the Arab public in particular.”Netanyahu himself has long been under the cloud of allegations related to Qatar after the arrests last year of two of his aides for allegedly receiving payments from the Gulf state.Qatar categorically denied the latest accusations of interference.“They accuse Qatar of buying off Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli political left and now, in this latest campaign, the Arab vote,” foreign ministry spokesman Majed Al-Ansari said. “These accusations are ridiculous and dangerous in equal measure.”Netanyahu, Israel’s longest-serving prime minister, for years tacitly supported Qatar funding for Hamas-ruled Gaza, hoping to preserve stability.That paradigm collapsed on Oct. 7, 2023, when Hamas carried out the deadliest single attack ever on Israel.Kingmakers under pressureWith nearly 93 percent of the vote counted, Netanyahu’s bloc was at 53 seats and the opposition forces led by Eisenkot on 48 — both well under the 61 needed to form a government.The two main Arab formations were on track for an unprecedented 19 seats between them.Some observers quickly said that the allegations would help Netanyahu by making the Arab lawmakers even more toxic to Eisenkot.Yousef Jabareen, the head of the leftist Arab-majority Joint List, told AFP on Wednesday that he was willing to cooperate with the opposition to bring down Netanyahu but without joining it in a government.In response to the new allegations, Eisenkot promised “utmost vigilance” against election interference.“On the other hand, we cannot allow political actors to exploit the situation and influence the timing of the inauguration of the 26th Knesset,” he said.One of Eisenkot’s right-leaning allies, Avigdor Lieberman, called the allegations “dramatic and unprecedented” and urged a swift investigation.An Israeli police statement said that they would investigate every complaint about election integrity.

Royal Decree appoints Prince Hashim bin Al Hussein as adviser to King

Fri, 30 Oct 2026 07:07:01 +0300

Jordan Daily - A Royal Decree has been issued, appointing HRH Prince Hashim bin Al Hussein as adviser to His Majesty King Abdullah, as of 29 October 2026.

Minister Abu Ghazaleh, Azerbaijan’s ambassador Abdullayev discuss boosting investment ties

Thu, 29 Oct 2026 13:18:36 +0300

Jordan Daily - Minister of Investment Tareq Abu Ghazaleh met Azerbaijan’s Ambassador to Jordan Shahin Abdullayev to discuss ways to strengthen investment ties and explore opportunities for cooperation in areas of mutual interest, the ministry said.Abu Ghazaleh stressed the importance of expanding investment cooperation between Jordan and Azerbaijan and strengthening partnerships between the private sectors of both countries to encourage mutual investment and capitalise on opportunities available in the kingdom.Abdullayev highlighted the importance of continued coordination between the two countries’ relevant authorities to deepen bilateral relations and pave the way for new investment partnerships in priority sectors.The meeting comes as Jordan seeks to strengthen its economic ties with friendly and partner countries, promote investment opportunities and attract investment to support economic growth.

Netanyahu falls short of majority as opposition, Arab parties win 67 Seats

Thu, 29 Oct 2026 06:47:59 +0300

AFP- Israel’s president voiced hope Wednesday for avoiding a second election after a hard-fought vote produced no clear winner, leaving Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the opposition scrambling for options and making Israeli Arab parties possible kingmakers.With more than 85 percent of ballots counted, Netanyahu’s right-wing bloc was slightly ahead but still short of a majority in Tuesday’s election, the first since the Oct. 7, 2023 attack that led Israel to wage war in Gaza and across the region.Both Netanyahu, Israel’s longest-serving prime minister who is allied with far-right and ultra-Orthodox Jewish parties, and Gadi Eisenkot, a former military chief leading a broad opposition bloc, said they would seek to form the next government.But neither looks set to reach the 61-seat threshold, with Netanyahu’s bloc projected to win 53 of the 120 seats in parliament and Eisenkot’s opposition set for 48.The final results could still change, but one place of clear gains was among Israeli Arab lists, which were set to jump to 19 seats.Surge in Arab party support“We must do everything we can, certainly after yesterday, to avoid another round of elections,” said President Isaac Herzog, who is tasked with determining which candidate to tap to form a government, and who urged parties to keep “an open mind.”Yousef Jabareen, head of the leftist Arab-majority Joint List, said the Israeli public had voted for new leadership and “anyone who wants to offer a substantive and genuine alternative to Netanyahu’s blood-soaked government will have to talk to us.”“It’s either the continuation of racism, the continuation of exclusion and the continuation of supremacy, or a genuine Jewish-Arab partnership,” he said.Voters from the Arab community, descendants of Palestinians who stayed after Israel’s creation and make up around 20 percent of the population, have been enraged by the Netanyahu government’s ultra-nationalist Jewish vision for the country and the Palestinian territories.Netanyahu during the campaign relentlessly attacked the opposition by saying it would put Arabs in power, running on the slogan: “Either the Right or Palestine.”Yair Golan, the head of Israel’s main left-wing party and a member of Eisenkot’s camp, became its first to call for an alliance with the Arab lists.“We must no longer accept Netanyahu’s racist division between Jewish votes and Arab votes,” Golan said in a social media post.But Eisenkot’s camp also includes right-wingers who share many of Netanyahu’s hawkish views and have adamantly rejected working with Arab lawmakers.Arab lawmakers could also give Eisenkot support in parliamentary votes on an ad hoc basis, enabling him to maintain a minority government without joining a coalition, although few observers believe such an arrangement would survive for long.Iran conflict implicationsA lack of a clear majority for either camp could mean weeks spent trying to cobble together coalitions, with new elections a possibility if negotiations fail.“Maybe everybody lost in these elections but the Arab parties. And for the Arab parties, it’s unclear that they can make use of their huge success,” Hebrew University of Jerusalem political scientist Gideon Rahat said.A stalemate could in the immediate term benefit Netanyahu, who would remain caretaker prime minister until a new government is formed.Both Netanyahu and Eisenkot appeared to indicate another factor was on the horizon — an Israeli attack alongside the United States on Iran.Netanyahu ordered bombing campaigns against Iran both last year and earlier this year, reluctantly stopping only after President Donald Trump reached a now-moribund ceasefire.In the days leading up to the election, Netanyahu repeatedly called for the overthrow of Iran’s government. News reports, which Netanyahu denied, said military top brass pushed back on his plans for pre-election action.Trump has said that the United States is no longer negotiating with Iran but will not attack until after next Tuesday’s US midterm elections.Speaking at a rally, Netanyahu said that Israel had a “unique opportunity” with Trump to “forever eliminate the existential threat of Iran.”Eisenkot in a post-election appearance warned Israel’s security chiefs that they must serve the national interest and not the political needs of Netanyahu, whom he called a caretaker premier “without a mandate.”“Netanyahu, don’t you dare use Israel’s security for your political needs,” Eisenkot said.‘An even worse leader’All eyes will be on Herzog, who has reportedly supported a unity government, which could take on more urgency if Netanyahu attacks Iran, although Eisenkot has publicly ruled out serving with him.Netanyahu, who has served as prime minister on and off for more than 19 years, has divided Israeli society.Facing criminal charges over corruption that he denies, he has sought to revamp the judiciary.He has also allied with far-right champions of extremist settlers who attack Palestinians in the West Bank with virtual impunity.Netanyahu is also wanted by the International Criminal Court over Israel’s devastating war in Gaza, where residents expressed uncertainty Wednesday as to what the vote might mean for them.“Our fear is that these elections might result in the emergence of an even worse leader and those who are more violent and bloodthirsty,” displaced Gazan Huda Al-Houli told AFP.

Crown Prince directs launch of national initiative to collect digital data

Thu, 29 Oct 2026 06:41:21 +0300

Jordan Daily - HRH Crown Prince Hussein on Wednesday chaired a regular meeting of the National Council for Future Technology, during which he directed the council to launch a national data-collection initiative focused on ensuring accuracy, quality, seamless flow, and promoting responsible use, in order to speed up the transition toward an artificial intelligence and data-driven digital economy.During the meeting, held at Al Husseiniya Palace and attended by Prime Minister Jafar Hassan, who is chairman of the council, the Crown Prince emphasised the need to establish regular performance monitoring, as well as to develop robust skill-development programmes to drive the initiative’s projects, thereby elevating institutional efficiency, innovation, productivity, and enabling decision-making based on accurate information.His Royal Highness highlighted the need to collaborate with relevant public and private sector entities on the initiative, and establish communication channels to foster partnerships and support implementation efforts.The Crown Prince noted that the initiative will support the creation of applications that improve citizen services in vital areas, particularly healthcare and education.His Royal Highness was also briefed on the progress of a number of the council’s ongoing projects and future plans.

King receives Qatar PM

Thu, 29 Oct 2026 06:37:42 +0300

Jordan Daily - His Majesty King Abdullah on Wednesday received Qatar Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani.The prime minister conveyed to His Majesty the condolences of Qatar Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani over the loss of the victims of the terrorist attack that targeted a church in Karak, and wishes for a full recovery of the injured.The King underscored the deep-rooted ties and friendship between Jordan and Qatar, noting the importance of continuing to strengthen cooperation between the two countries across various fields.Speaking about overall regional developments, His Majesty emphasised the need to achieve comprehensive de-escalation that guarantees the security of Arab states and restores stability to their peoples.The meeting also touched on the latest developments in the West Bank and Jerusalem, with the King warning of the dangers of Israel’s continued unilateral measures against Palestinians.Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi attended the meeting.

EuroCham Jordan honors founding board secretary Anwar Obeidat

Wed, 28 Oct 2026 15:13:49 +0300

Jordan Daily - EuroCham Jordan has honored Dr Anwar Obeidat for his service as secretary of the organisation’s first Board of Directors in 1995, during its Extraordinary General Assembly.The recognition marked Obeidat’s contribution to the early foundations of the organisation, which has continued to develop its role in strengthening economic and business relations between Jordan and Europe.Reflecting on the honor, Obeidat said it carried special significance, linking his early involvement in the institution with its subsequent growth and development.He said the recognition was not simply a tribute to a position he had held in the past, but an acknowledgment of his role in the institution’s formative years.The period since 1995 has demonstrated how institutions evolve over time and how relationships built in their early stages can contribute to broader economic and business cooperation, Obeidat said.He expressed gratitude for the recognition and for the trust placed in him during his tenure and throughout the years that followed.

Hikma partners with Rem3dy Health to bring Nourished® Wellness Solutions to the MENA region

Wed, 28 Oct 2026 14:44:04 +0300

Jordan Daily – Hikma Pharmaceuticals PLC (Hikma), the multinational pharmaceutical group, has entered into a strategic partnership with Rem3dy Health, a UK-based health technology company behind the award-winning Nourished® brand. Through this collaboration, Hikma will bring Nourished’s innovative wellness solutions to consumers across Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain and Jordan, with plans to expand to additional MENA markets over the coming year.Hikma will commercialise a selection of Nourished® products, which will form the foundation of Hikma’s Vitamins, Minerals and Supplements (VMS) portfolio, supporting its ambition to meet increasing consumer demand for innovative preventative health and science-based wellness solutions.Nourished® is redefining the vitamins, minerals and supplements (VMS) category through its proprietary 3D-printing technology, which enables the creation of multi-nutrient gummy stacks tailored to specific health and wellness goals. Designed to support areas such as beauty, sleep, gut health, immunity and cognitive wellbeing, Nourished products offer consumers a convenient, science-led approach to daily nutrition. The formulations are sugar-free, vegan and allergen-free, meeting the growing demand for clean, innovative and customised wellness solutions.The partnership marks an important step in strengthening Hikma’s Consumer Healthcare portfolio and reflects its commitment to broadening access to innovative healthcare solutions that support prevention, wellness and everyday health. Mazen Darwazeh, Hikma’s Executive Vice Chairman and Deputy CEO of MENA, said, “As consumers across our region become increasingly focused on preventive health and wellbeing, there is growing demand for innovative solutions that support healthier lifestyles. Through our partnership with Rem3dy Health, we are introducing a differentiated consumer health offering powered by advanced technology and backed by a strong track record of international success. Nourished® complements our growing Consumer Health portfolio and reflects our commitment to improving access to innovative healthcare solutions that support healthier lifestyles across the region.”Melissa Snover, Founder and CEO, Rem3dy Health, said, “We are honoured to partner with Hikma to introduce Nourished to consumers across the MENA region. Hikma’s longstanding healthcare expertise and strong regional presence, combined with our proprietary 3D-printing technology, provide a strong foundation for bringing differentiated, science-led nutritional solutions to these markets. We share a commitment to making innovative approaches to preventive health and wellbeing more accessible and look forward to building on this partnership to meet the evolving needs of consumers across the region.”

Jordan cannot build a longevity strategy without women

Wed, 28 Oct 2026 10:06:38 +0300

By: Dr. Sukaina AlzyoudJordan Daily - If longevity risk enters the national balance sheet when longer lives are accompanied by preventable illness, women after 40 are among Jordan’s clearest opportunities for action. Midlife is when cardiometabolic risk often becomes more visible; menopause can affect sleep, mood, bone health and quality of life; and work and family responsibilities can push women’s own health aside. Yet care is still commonly organized around a symptom, test or specialist visit rather than the whole transition.This is not an argument for medicalizing midlife. It is an argument for making prevention easier to reach before risk becomes disease and disease becomes disability. Jordan already has many building blocks: stronger primary care, national nutrition and cancer strategies, women-friendly health centers, growing telehealth capacity and a proposed national digital-health strategy. The opportunity is to connect them around a practical promise: every woman should be able to enter a trusted prevention pathway at 40 and remain connected as her needs change.Forty Is a Prevention WindowA woman’s 40th birthday is not a biological switch; it is a useful service-design threshold. It offers a memorable moment to review risks often managed separately: blood pressure, glucose and lipids; weight; nutrition and physical activity; tobacco exposure; sleep and mental health; breast and cervical cancer screening; bone health; sexual and urogenital health; medicines; family history; and symptoms that may relate to menopause or another condition.The purpose is not to order every test for every woman. It is to assess risk, apply national clinical guidance, identify red flags and agree on the next appropriate step. Some women will need education and supported self-management; others will require screening, laboratory assessment, medication review or referral. Care must be individualized because age alone does not determine clinical need.This approach also corrects a persistent blind spot. Women’s health is too often treated as reproductive health until childbearing ends, then as chronic disease only after illness appears. Midlife falls between those categories even though timely prevention can influence later cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, osteoporosis, disability and loss of independence.Jordan Has a Platform to Build OnJordan need not start from a blank page. The Ministry of Health Strategy 2023–2025 positioned primary health care as the system’s entry point and emphasized prevention, family health, noncommunicable disease, mental health and digital transformation. The Economic Modernisation Vision likewise points toward equitable primary care in an integrated, digitally enabled system. The 2026–2029 executive programme discussions retain universal coverage, sustainable services and digitally integrated primary care as leading objectives.Other initiatives can reinforce a women-after-40 pathway. The National Nutrition Strategy 2023–2030 addresses obesity and diet-related disease, while the National Sexual and Reproductive Health Strategy 2020–2030 calls for integrated services. Updated guidance supports earlier breast-cancer detection, and the Ministry lists a National Cancer Control Strategy 2026–2030. The 2025–2030 plan for older persons spans health, social care, protection and participation. These policies cover one life course; women should not have to navigate them as disconnected systems.The Women-Friendly Health Centers programme offers a relevant delivery base. Designed to serve women across the life course, including menopause, it combines primary, reproductive and mental-health services with education and social support. Jordan can use these centers as demonstration sites, then extend a proven pathway through family-health teams across the Kingdom.Digital Capacity Must Become Preventive CapacityJordan’s digital health infrastructure is advancing quickly. The Jordan Digital Health Center opened in July 2025 with remote radiology, intensive-care, dialysis and telemedicine services. By February 2026, telemedicine links had expanded to 12 public hospitals and three health centers, improving specialist access from peripheral areas.These achievements matter, but digital systems often become visible only after someone enters care. A longevity strategy also needs capacity that helps people remain well between encounters. For women after 40, this means a trusted digital front door connected to primary care, not another isolated wellness application.The proposed National Digital Health Strategy 2026–2030 creates a timely opening through its focus on person-centered services, secure information exchange, workforce capacity, health promotion and sustainable financing. Its implementation should make women’s midlife prevention an early, measurable use case.Test Act and OptimizeA national pathway can organize care around three recurring functions. Test means building a comprehensive picture of current health rather than reducing assessment to menopausal status. Act means turning that assessment into an individualized plan, from lifestyle and symptom support to screening, treatment or referral. Optimize means maintaining continuity: review progress, measure outcomes and adjust the plan as symptoms, risks and circumstances evolve.Through a longevity lens, this is more than a clinical sequence. It connects preparation, timely intervention and follow-up, converting longer life expectancy into longer healthspan. Jordan has embraced the essential principles: primary care as the entry point, prevention alongside treatment and connected digital services. The next step is one accessible pathway that protects women’s health, participation and independence across the second half of life.

Safadi, Araqchi discuss efforts to reach sustainable ceasefire

Wed, 28 Oct 2026 06:10:35 +0300

Jordan Daily - Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi received a phone call on Tuesday from his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araqchi, to discuss efforts to end regional escalation and reach a sustainable ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran, foreign ministry said.The two ministers also discussed efforts to reach a comprehensive resolution to the crisis, the ministry said.Safadi stressed the importance of coordinated efforts to restore calm and achieve lasting security and stability in the region, while ensuring the security of all regional states, respecting international law and the principles of good neighbourliness, non-interference in the internal affairs of states, and freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.Araqchi condemned an attack on a church in the town of Hmoud in Karak and offered Iran’s condolences for those killed, the ministry said.

Israeli exit polls show deadlock, point to setback for Netanyahu

Wed, 28 Oct 2026 05:56:17 +0300

Reuters- Israel’s wartime election was deadlocked on Tuesday, exit polls showed, with Gadi Eisenkot’s opposition bloc running neck and neck with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s camp, leaving neither side with a clear path to power.The projections pointed to a setback for Netanyahu’s coalition, though the deadlock could allow Israel’s longest-serving prime minister to remain in power as caretaker during coalition negotiations.“The Israeli public has voted against Netanyahu’s service as Israel’s prime minister ... a worthy leader would have accepted the people’s non-confidence and announced today his retirement from politics,” Eisenkot told cheering supporters in Tel Aviv.Turnout was 77.7 percent, Israel’s Central Elections Committee said, the highest in more than two decades and around 7 percentage points higher than in 2022.Kan 11 and Channel 13 showed the two blocs level, while Channel 12 gave Eisenkot a narrow edge over Netanyahu’s Likud-led camp. None gave either side the 61 seats needed for a majority in ‌the 120-seat Knesset.Far-right ‌religious parties led by Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich were projected to take a combined ‌13 ⁠seats within Netanyahu’s bloc.Arab ⁠parties outside the two main blocs could hold the balance of power. But Eisenkot, leader of the Yashar party and a former military chief, has all but ruled out forming a government with them, complicating his path to power.Final results could take days, and Israel’s fragmented political system leaves smaller parties potential kingmakers.It was the first election since the Hamas-led attack of October 7, 2023, and the ensuing wars in Gaza, Lebanon and Iran.Yohanan Plesner, president of the Israel Democracy Institute, called the exit polls a major defeat for Netanyahu’s coalition but cautioned that Eisenkot had not emerged as a clear winner and much could change as votes were counted.NETANYAHU SETBACK, NO CLEAR WINNEROpposition leader Yair Lapid ⁠said in a statement: “Don’t let anyone confuse you: the Netanyahu bloc has suffered a crushing defeat. This ‌is a total collapse and the public has told them to go home.”Eisenkot, ‌66, who lost a son and two nephews in the Gaza war, emerged as Netanyahu’s strongest challenger, stressing his security credentials while positioning himself as ‌a centrist domestically.He entered politics only four years ago and joined Netanyahu’s war cabinet after the 2023 Hamas attack, but quit eight ‌months later, criticizing the prime minister’s leadership.Eisenkot offers a break with Netanyahu’s leadership and far-right allies, but not with the hard-line approach to security that has become more entrenched since the 2023 Hamas attack. He opposes Palestinian statehood and says Hamas’ military wing must be destroyed or dismantled.Eisenkot says Israel’s response — a war that has killed more than 74,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza health authorities — was a failure because Hamas remains in charge.The headquarters of ‌the Joint List, an alliance of several Arab parties, burst into whistles and applause when exit polls were released, on a historic night for turnout among Palestinian citizens of Israel.“We refuse the ⁠occupation and racism, and we ⁠will remain here,” said Faten Gattas, a candidate in the Joint List, in a speech at the alliance’s headquarters in Nazareth. Candidates hoped high Arab turnout would allow them to play a decisive role in blocking Netanyahu’s coalition from returning to power.A WARTIME VERDICTVoters grappled with the trauma of Israel’s deadliest day, when Hamas killed 1,200 people and took 251 hostage, and the wars in Gaza and with Lebanon’s Hezbollah and Iran that followed.While Netanyahu was criticized for the country’s biggest security failure, he argued that he had made Israel and the world safer by killing top leaders of Hamas, Hezbollah and Iran.The policies of Netanyahu’s right-wing coalition have been divisive at home and deepened Israel’s international isolation, but he has portrayed himself as the leader with the mettle to face down Israel’s foes.Netanyahu, 77, has served as prime minister for nearly 19 of the past 30 years and has repeatedly survived political crises. His opponents have managed to wrest the premiership from him only once since 2009, after four inconclusive elections in two years. Eighteen months later, he was back.He entered the election facing longstanding corruption charges, which he denies, and criticism over intelligence failures that allowed Hamas-led militants to carry out their attack.Netanyahu campaigned on an endorsement from US President Donald Trump, his ally in the war against Iran.

FM Safadi expresses sorrow over civilian deaths in Syria

Thu, 29 Oct 2026 06:54:50 +0300

Jordan Daily - Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi held a telephone call on Tuesday with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani, expressing sorrow over the deaths of civilians during operations targeting Daesh positions.Safadi expressed Jordan’s deep regret over the loss of innocent civilian lives during the operations, which posed a shared threat to both countries.He offered condolences to the Syrian people and wished those injured a speedy recovery.

King inaugurates SOFEX 2026 in Aqaba

Tue, 27 Oct 2026 19:25:42 +0300

Jordan Daily - His Majesty King Abdullah, the Supreme Commander of the Jordan Armed Forces-Arab Army (JAF), inaugurated on Tuesday the 15th edition of the Special Operations Forces Exhibition and Conference SOFEX 2026, in Aqaba, attended by Their Royal Highnesses Crown Prince Hussein and Prince Hashem.Organised in coordination with the JAF, SOFEX is one of the leading forums for manufacturers and suppliers of special operations equipment, providing a platform to showcase the latest military technologies, defence solutions and cyber security systems, and to exchange expertise and forge partnerships between leading international companies and participating official delegations, according to a Royal Court statement.His Majesty was briefed by SOFEX organisers on the themes of the conference and exhibition, and the key participants at this year’s event, which is the largest to date in terms of exhibition space and number of participating countries.More than 400 official delegations representing 75 countries, and 350 exhibiting companies from 38 countries are taking part in SOFEX 2026.The King watched a video presentation documenting the exhibition’s development over the years, which highlighted the most notable modern defence technologies and solutions displayed at SOFEX.During the opening ceremony, SOFEX Chairman Brig. Gen. (retired) Ayman Al Batran emphasised that this year’s exhibition in Aqaba is taking place at a critical juncture amidst increasingly complex regional challenges, the statement said.He noted that addressing these rapidly evolving changes requires raising the level of preparedness and strengthening international cooperation, as well as fostering integrated strategic partnerships between nations, armed forces, security agencies, innovators and technology leaders in defence industries.Batran added that over the course of three decades, SOFEX has succeeded in cementing Jordan’s position on the global defence exhibition scene, embodying the Royal vision of establishing Jordan as a regional and international hub for defence innovation and technology.For his part, the commander of the King Abdullah II Royal Special Forces Group said the nature of modern warfare is developing rapidly as a result of new technologies such as artificial intelligence and autonomous systems, pointing out that technical superiority is not enough unless combined with field experience and the ability to adapt quickly.The commander underscored that tackling future threats requires the forging of close international partnerships, given that the future of special operations forces is shaped by cooperation and shared strategic choices.His Majesty toured the exhibition and viewed the displays of a range of local and international companies, as well as the latest developments in military technology, the defence industry, and innovative security solutions.The King was also briefed by company representatives and pavilion managers on the nature of their exhibits and the latest special operations equipment and smart systems that have been developed.On the sidelines of SOFEX, the King held meetings with Chief of Staff of the Lebanese Armed Forces Maj. Gen. Hassan Odeh and Lebanon Minister of National Defence Michel Menassah, United Kingdom Defence Senior Adviser to the Middle East and North Africa Vice Admiral Edward Ahlgren, Deputy Supreme Allied Commander for NATO Gen. Aurelio Colagrande, Rear Admiral Samuel Majou of the French Armed Forces, Maj. Gen. Michał Strzelecki of the Polish Armed Forces, Chief of Staff of the Malaysian Armed Forces Lt. Gen. Datuk Azhan Md Othman, and Chief of Staff of the Barbados Defence Force Brig. Carlos Lovell.A number of Royal Family members, and senior officers and officials also attended opening ceremony.

Jordan balances security and deterrence in response to threats from Southern Syria

Tue, 27 Oct 2026 11:14:19 +0300

By: Nedal ZubeidiJordan Daily - Jordan’s airstrikes targeting Daesh positions and drug-trafficking networks in southern Syria reflect a shift in the kingdom’s approach to security threats emanating from its northern border. When repeated warnings about extremist activity fail to produce effective measures to contain the risks, a state has both the right and the responsibility to reassess the tools available to protect its citizens and safeguard its national security.Operation “Jordanian Deterrence - Hmoud,” which the Jordanian Armed Forces conducted in coordination with the Syrian government, followed the attack on mourners attending a church funeral in Karak. According to Jordanian authorities, evidence linked the cell involved in the attack to extremist networks operating in southern Syria. These findings reinforced Jordan’s assessment that the threat was no longer confined to Syrian territory but had direct implications for the kingdom’s security and the safety of its citizens.In my view, Jordan cannot be expected to exercise restraint indefinitely while threats to its national security persist. Nor can diplomacy become a substitute for practical action when the protection of human life is at stake.Jordan has repeatedly warned the Syrian side about the dangers posed by extremist groups operating in southern Syria. Yet, the response has fallen short of what is required. This raises a fundamental question: what options remain for a state facing persistent cross- border threats after repeated warnings and diplomatic efforts have failed to deliver sufficient results?The issue is not a desire for escalation, but the need to prevent a security threat from becoming a permanent reality. From this perspective, the airstrikes can be understood as a clear deterrent message: Jordan will not treat threats to its national security as matters that can be indefinitely postponed or ignored.The threat posed by drug-trafficking networks is no less significant. Their continued activity in southern Syria points to broader security challenges that armed groups and criminal organisations can exploit amid weak enforcement and security vacuums. Addressing these threats requires a comprehensive approach that disrupts trafficking routes, dismantles criminal networks and prevents extremist groups from exploiting illicit activities to sustain their operations.Coordination with Damascus represents an opportunity that should be built upon, not a justification for settling for political understandings without tangible results. What is needed is sustained security cooperation, intelligence- sharing, effective border control and concrete action against extremist cells and trafficking networks.The Syrian government also has a responsibility to demonstrate its ability to prevent its territory from being used as a launching ground for threats against neighbouring states.In my assessment, the real test lies not in public statements but in results on the ground. Coordination that does not translate into measurable action will have limited impact, while addressing the threats requires a serious and sustained security partnership.Ultimately, the Jordanian airstrikes should not be viewed as an isolated military operation, but as an indication of the kingdom’s growing concern over persistent threats originating in southern Syria and the need to move beyond warnings towards practical measures to contain them.Jordan’s national security cannot be indefinitely deferred, and protecting its citizens is not a political option but a fundamental sovereign responsibility. The objective should not be escalation for its own sake, but effective Syrian cooperation that translates commitments into tangible results, alongside a security strategy that prevents extremist groups and trafficking networks from exploiting security vacuums to threaten Jordan and the wider region.Stability in southern Syria is not separate from Jordan’s national interests, it is an integral part of the kingdom’s security.