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CBJ’s Sharkas says record reserves, monetary stability bolster Jordan’s economic resilience

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 06:04:39 +0300

Business EditorJordan Daily - Governor of Central Bank of Jordan (CBJ) Dr. Adel Al-Sharkas said the country’s monetary policy has succeeded in maintaining financial and monetary stability while supporting balanced economic growth.Speaking at a banking summit organized by the Association of Banks in Jordan, Sharkas said foreign reserves rose to $28.5 billion at the end of January 2026, covering more than 10 months of the kingdom’s imports of goods and services. He added that dollarization declined to 17.6% by the end of 2025.Sharkas said 2025 had tested the resilience of Jordan’s economy and its ability to adapt to external challenges, noting that growth continued to improve. The economy expanded by 2.7% in the first quarter of 2025 and by 2.8% in both the second and third quarters, compared with 2.6% growth for the whole of 2024.He said the performance reflected the government’s commitment to implementing a comprehensive reform agenda, supported by positive indicators, particularly in the external sector.Sharkas also praised the banking sector’s adoption of digital and financial technology solutions, enabled by advanced infrastructure provided by the Central Bank of Jordan. Around 84% of banking services are now conducted electronically without the need to visit branches, he said.The value of transactions processed through national payment systems exceeded 42 billion dinars in 2025, more than 100% of gross domestic product.Highlighting efforts to keep pace with technological developments, Sharkas said the central bank launched a regulatory framework for artificial intelligence in the banking sector in July 2025 to guide financial institutions in adopting AI responsibly.He added that the central bank had completed all projects under the first executive programme (2023–2025) of the country’s Economic Modernisation Vision and would continue focusing on digital transformation, cybersecurity, green finance, artificial intelligence and financial innovation under the second phase (2026–2029).

Two former Israel PMs unite to challenge Netanyahu in elections

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 05:53:03 +0300

AFP- Former Israeli prime minister Naftali Bennett and opposition leader Yair Lapid announced Sunday they will run on a joint list in this year’s elections, in a move aimed at unseating incumbent Benjamin Netanyahu.

“I am pleased to announce that tonight, together with my friend Yair Lapid, I am taking the most Zionist and patriotic step we have ever taken for our country,” Bennett said in a joint televised statement with Lapid.

“Tonight, we are uniting and founding the Beyahad (Together) party under my leadership, a party that will lead to a great victory and open a new era for our beautiful country.”

During the televised statement, Lapid said: “Bennett is a right-wing politician, but an honest one, and there is trust between us.”

Earlier on Sunday, Lapid, himself a former premier, had said he would join forces with Bennett.

“The move brings about the unification of the Repair Bloc, enabling all efforts to be focused on leading Israel toward the necessary repair,” he wrote on X.

Bennett said that if elected, he would establish a national commission of inquiry into the failures leading up to the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack — something the current Netanyahu government has rejected.

Bennett and Lapid have been outspoken critics of Netanyahu’s handling of the country’s wars since that attack, with Lapid going so far as to label the recent two-week ceasefire agreed with Iran a “political disaster.”- Aide turned rival -Right-winger Bennett, a longtime supporter of Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, and Lapid previously formed a coalition government in June 2021.

It was replaced at the end of 2022 by the current administration led by Netanyahu, after Bennett said in June of that year that his coalition was no longer tenable and Lapid served a brief stint as caretaker prime minister.

Opinion polls suggest Bennett is the candidate best placed to defeat Netanyahu in the October vote.

On Sunday, Bennett also called on former minister Gadi Eisenkot, leader of the centrist Yashar party, to join the joint list.

The 54-year-old son of American immigrants and a former high-tech entrepreneur, Bennett sold his start-up in 2005 for $145 million (110 million euros).

As a former Israeli commando officer, he has a profile that resonates with part of the country’s younger generation after more than two years of the Gaza war.

Once a Netanyahu adviser, Bennett has over time become a staunch opponent of his former mentor’s policies.

He led several right-wing parties before forming a broad unity government in 2021.

His new running mate, 62-year-old Lapid, is the son of the late journalist and minister Tommy Lapid, a Holocaust survivor, and acclaimed author Shulamit Lapid.

A prominent television journalist, Lapid entered politics in 2012 by founding Yesh Atid, which went on to become the country’s second-largest political force.

He has since served as opposition leader, aside from his brief stint as prime minister.

Netanyahu plans to lead his party’s list in the general election that must be held no later than the end of October.

At 76, the leader of the right-wing Likud party is Israel’s longest-serving prime minister, with more than 18 cumulative years in office across multiple stints.

Jordanian Rasha Oudeh to launch her first book in Switzerland on leadership

Sun, 26 Apr 2026 19:37:39 +0300

By : News EditorJordan Daily - Jordanian entrepreneur Rasha Oudeh is set to launch her first book in Switzerland, offering an unvarnished look at the realities of leadership and personal growth, with a wider international release planned for the second quarter of 2026.Titled Leadership Without Sugarcoating: The Decision, The Cost, and What Remains, the book will be distributed across the United States, Europe and the Middle East, targeting professionals, entrepreneurs and readers navigating major life decisions.In the book, Oudeh examines the often-overlooked costs of leadership, moving beyond conventional narratives of success to explore themes such as personal sacrifice, emotional strain, isolation and the weight of responsibility. Drawing on her experience building businesses between Amman and Zurich, she reflects on the challenges of operating across cultures and markets, including those faced as an Arab woman in international business.Structured around key phases of transformation, the work traces the arc of leadership through “The Decision,” “The Cost,” “Breaking Points,” “Rebuilding,” “Continuing,” and “What Remains.” Each stage addresses critical moments that define leadership journeys, from choosing difficult paths to confronting setbacks and ultimately reassessing values and purpose.Oudeh, known for her work in cross-border business development and advocacy for women’s empowerment, positions the book as both a personal account and a broader commentary on leadership in high-pressure environments.The release marks a notable milestone for Jordan’s entrepreneurial community, highlighting the growing presence of regional voices in global leadership discourse.Leadership Without Sugarcoating is expected to reach a diverse audience, including executives, small and medium-sized enterprise leaders and young professionals, as well as readers seeking practical insights into resilience and long-term personal growth.

King receives Kuwait foreign minister

Sun, 26 Apr 2026 16:10:21 +0300

Jordan Daily - His Majesty King Abdullah II on Sunday received Kuwait Foreign Minister Sheikh Jarrah Jaber Al Ahmad Al Sabah at Al Husseiniya Palace.The meeting, attended by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II, addressed the strong relations between Jordan and Kuwait, and ways to expand cooperation in several fields, in addition to the need to step up joint Arab action to sustain de-escalation in the region.His Majesty underscored that any de-escalation agreement must guarantee the security of Arab states, stressing that the security of Gulf states is fundamental to regional and global security and stability.The King reiterated the importance of continuing to support Lebanon’s efforts to maintain its security, stability and sovereignty, as well as to prevent Israeli attempts to exploit the situation in the region to create new facts on the ground in Jerusalem, the West Bank, and Gaza.Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi, and Director of the Office of the His Majesty Alaa Batayneh attended the meeting.

Iran’s Araqchi discusses efforts to end war and Hormuz security with Oman

Sun, 26 Apr 2026 15:21:48 +0300

Reuters - Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi held talks in Oman on Sunday and discussed security in the Strait of Hormuz and broader Gulf waters and diplomatic efforts to end the Iran-U.S. conflict, according to an Iranian foreign ministry statement.In talks in Muscat with Oman’s Sultan Haitham bin Tariq al-Said, Araqchi said the U.S. military presence in the Middle East was fuelling insecurity and division and called for a regional security framework free of outside interference.

Social Democratic Party says prisoners’ execution law is war crime, urges action

Sun, 26 Apr 2026 10:12:52 +0300

Jordan Daily -The Jordanian Social Democratic Party held a legal and political seminar on Tuesday at its headquarters in Amman to discuss the “Prisoners’ Execution Law” approved by the Israeli Knesset in March 2026. The law grants Israeli courts the authority, and in some cases obliges them, to impose the death penalty by hanging on those convicted of deliberately causing the death of Israelis.The seminar addressed the legal, political and moral dimensions of the law, with participants stressing that it represents a dangerous escalation and a blatant violation of international humanitarian law and the Geneva Conventions. They further warned that the law reinforces a discriminatory policy targeting Palestinian prisoners and detainees held in Israeli occupation prisons.Dr. Haytham Ereifej, attorney-at-law and member of the Party’s Political Bureau, said that the law constitutes a crime that rises to the level of a war crime, and represents a clear challenge to international law, the Geneva Conventions, and the international rules governing the protection of Palestinian prisoners and detainees.Dr Ereifej emphasized the importance of Jordan’s position under the leadership of His Majesty King Abdullah II, as well as the diplomatic and legal efforts led by the Kingdom in defense of the rights of the Palestinian people and their human dignity. He also underlined the continued demand for the release and repatriation of Jordanian prisoners held in Israeli occupation prisons.In his intervention, Dr. Riyad Al-Soboh, a human rights expert and trainer, presented a legal reading of the decision, reviewing findings contained in UN reports on the human rights situation in Palestine. He pointed to the grave violations committed by the occupation authorities against Palestinian prisoners and detainees, including practices that undermine the most basic humanitarian and legal standards.For his part, writer and novelist Abdul Salam Saleh addressed the prisoners’ issue from a literary and humanitarian perspective. He highlighted prison literature and the suffering and struggle it reflects, stressing the important role played by Jordan’s cultural community, particularly the Jordanian Writers Association, in documenting the history of the Palestinian national prisoners’ movement and keeping this cause present in public awareness.The Secretary-General of the Jordanian Social Democratic Party, Dr. Abdul Hameed Alimat, affirmed that the Party’s position toward the Zionist occupation is a historic and principled one, consistent with the Party’s ideological and political foundations, which place the Palestinian cause and the full rights of the Palestinian people at the heart of national priorities.At the conclusion of the seminar, Ali Al-Batran, a member of the Party’s Political Bureau, presented the Party’s position on the decision and issued an urgent appeal to political parties, national forces, legal bodies and civil society institutions to form a legal-political committee comprising representatives of parties, civil organizations, lawyers and human rights advocates.The proposed committee would be tasked with studying the Prisoners’ Execution Law, examining its implications from legal and political perspectives, and developing mechanisms for immediate action.Through this appeal, the Party called for a clear and unequivocal rejection of the execution of prisoners, describing it as a war crime, racial discrimination and a grave violation of international humanitarian law. It also called for full respect for international law, an end to administrative detention practices, the protection of children from arrest, detention and violations, and expanded engagement with international humanitarian and human rights organizations to increase pressure and expose violations.The Party further urged action before competent international courts and bodies to hold the occupying state accountable for unlawful legislation and grave violations committed against prisoners and detainees.

Trump safe after being rushed from White House correspondents dinner, shooter in custody

Sun, 26 Apr 2026 05:19:08 +0300

Reuters - President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump were rushed out of the White House Correspondents' Association ‌dinner by Secret Service agents on Saturday night after a man armed with a shotgun tried to breach security, officials said.A man armed with a shotgun fired at a Secret Service agent, an FBI official told Reuters. The agent was hit in an area ⁠covered by protective gear and not harmed, the official said.All federal officials, including Trump, were safe. About an hour after Trump was rushed from the event, he posted on Truth Social that a "shooter had been apprehended."
"Quite an evening in D.C. Secret Service and Law Enforcement did a fantastic job," Trump added.
Shortly afterwards, he posted, "The First Lady, plus the Vice President, and all Cabinet members, are in perfect condition." He said he ‌would ⁠be holding a White House press conference on Saturday night.After the sound of shots, dinner ⁠attendees immediately stopped talking and people started screaming “Get down, get down!"
Hundreds of guests dove under the tables as Secret Service officers in combat gear ran into the ⁠dining room. Trump and the first lady had bent down behind the dais before being hustled out by Secret Service officers.
Many of the ⁠2,600 attendees took cover while waiters fled to the front of the dining hall.

SSIF assets reach JD 19.2 bln, supports dual infrastructure strategy in Q1

Sat, 25 Apr 2026 11:04:11 +0300

Jordan Daily - The Social Security Investment Fund (SSIF) closed Q1 2026 with assets under management of JD 19.2 billion, up JD 519 million year-to-date, or 2.8%, as sustained investment performance and an expanding strategic mandate continued to reinforce the fund's long-term growth trajectory.Asset growth was driven by comprehensive income of JD 485.6 million, up from JD 482.7 million over the same period last year, alongside a JD 30 million actuarial surplus transfer from the Social Security Corporation. Comprehensive income comprised net investment income of JD 252.7 million and JD 232.9 million in net unrealized appreciation on the strategic equity portfolio, SSIF said in a statement seen by Jordan Daily.Net income from investment portfolios grew 5.4% year-on-year, driven primarily by the bond portfolio at JD 164 million, followed by equities at JD 50.7 million and money market instruments at JD 28.7 million.Dividend income from portfolio companies is projected to exceed JD 200 million for FY2025, an all-time high, with the bulk of recognition weighted toward Q2 as most investee companies concluded their annual general meetings after quarter-end.The fund's asset allocation reflects a liability-driven investment framework: bonds at 56.7%, equities at 20.7%, money market instruments at 10.5%, real estate at 6.0%, loans at 2.8%, and the tourism portfolio at 1.7%.Social Security Investment Board Chairman Omar Malhas said surpassing the JD 19 billion threshold reflects an investment methodology built on generating sustainable risk-adjusted returns, achieving sectoral and geographic diversification, and managing risk in line with international pension fund practices.He added that 2026 represents a year of deepened engagement in large-scale national projects, with the fund having signed a shareholding agreement for a 7% equity stake in the Aqaba Railway Project Company and a 15% ownership stake in the National Water Carrier Project Company, in addition to joining the financing consortium being arranged by Jordanian commercial banks.Malhas also pointed to the reopening of the Crown Plaza Petra Hotel earlier this year following the completion of its expansion and renovation, and confirmed the fund is actively evaluating a pipeline of opportunities across education, technology, mining, and real estate development, in line with its strategic objectives and its role in directing capital toward value-added sectors with measurable impact on the national economy.SSIF CEO Dr. Izzedine Kanakrieh characterized Q1 2026 as a period of broad-based investment activity, encompassing increased positions on the Amman Stock Exchange, higher stakes in major banking and mining companies, and expanded real estate exposure through land acquisitions and long-term BOT lease arrangements.On the fund's strategic infrastructure commitments, Kanakrieh said SSIF's contribution extends beyond direct equity participation to generate a multiplier effect across several value channels within an investment model designed to maximize returns while amplifying impact on flagship national initiatives.In the Aqaba Railway project, the fund's equity stake in the project company is structured to complement its existing holdings in Jordan Phosphate Mines Company and Arab Potash Company. The railway is expected to serve as the nucleus of a broader national rail network, reducing freight costs, enhancing the export competitiveness of Jordan's mining sector, and positioning the Kingdom as a regional logistics hub.In the National Water Carrier project, the largest water infrastructure undertaking in Jordan's history, SSIF holds layered exposure spanning direct equity in the project company, co-financing through the banking consortium, and indirect returns via its existing shareholdings in the participating banks. The project is expected to anchor Jordan's national water security while providing sustainable water supply to agricultural and industrial sectors.The Social Security Investment Fund continues to consolidate its position as a long-term institutional investor committed to balancing financial returns with sustainability, through measured investments that reinforce the resilience of Jordan's social security system, align with national economic priorities, advance strategic public-private partnerships, and generate quality employment opportunities for Jordanians.

Crown Prince meets France president on margins of EU meeting in Cyprus

Sat, 25 Apr 2026 10:15:40 +0300

Jordan Daily- His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II met with France President Emmanuel Macron on Friday, on the margins of the informal meeting of the European Union and key regional partners in Nicosia.His Royal Highness expressed pride in the strong friendship between Jordan and France, emphasising the importance of building on ties across a number of fields, particularly economic ones.The discussion addressed the latest developments in the Middle East, with the Crown Prince stressing the importance of sustaining the ceasefire agreement to prevent a dangerous resurgence of escalation.His Royal Highness also noted the need to continue supporting Lebanon’s efforts to maintain its security, stability, and sovereignty, and to ensure the continued delivery of necessary aid.The Crown Prince also called for stepping up international efforts to halt Israel’s attempts to annex land in the West Bank, as well as its attacks on Muslim and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem.Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi, and Director of the Office of the Crown Prince Zaid Baqain attended the meeting.

Crown Prince Al Hussein’s call to re‑implement Prince Ali football centres is exactly what Jordanian football needs

Sat, 25 Apr 2026 10:00:51 +0300

Dr. Fadi Maayah
Curtin University, AustraliaJordan Daily - Jordanian football stands at a defining moment in its history. After historic on‑field achievements and unprecedented global recognition, the national game now faces a critical question: how can this success be sustained? The call by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II to re‑implement the Prince Ali Football Centres provides a timely and strategic answer, placing grassroots development back at the centre of Jordan’s football future.Grassroots football has long been a pillar of Jordan’s progress. The Prince Ali Football Centres, established in 2002 under the supervision of the Jordan Football Association and led by His Royal Highness Prince Ali bin Al Hussein, were created as a nationwide initiative to identify and develop young talent across the Kingdom. Importantly, the centres ensured access for children who lacked opportunities in private academies, making talent identification more inclusive and merit‑based.From the outset, the centres adopted a progressive philosophy. Training programmes were structured, age‑appropriate, and holistic. Technical development was combined with physical preparation, behavioural education, and the promotion of values such as discipline, commitment, and teamwork. This approach recognised that elite footballers are developed through long‑term learning environments, not short‑term results. Much of this work was shaped by experienced Egyptian coach Mahmoud Al‑Jawerahi, whose leadership helped define the programme’s identity.The impact of the Prince Ali Football Centres is clearly reflected at the highest levels of the game. Many of Jordan’s leading international players, including Musa Al Taamari, Yazan Al Naimat and Ali Olwan, began their football journeys within this system. At youth level, the programme’s influence was equally significant. Graduates formed the backbone of the Jordanian team that qualified for the FIFA U‑20 World Cup in 2007, a landmark achievement led by Jordanian coach Ahmad Abed Al‑Qader.Despite these successes, the suspension of the centres in recent years created gaps in the national development pathway. While clubs continued to play a key role, the absence of a structured nationwide system, combined with the growth of private academies, led to inconsistencies in talent identification and player progression. These concerns became more pronounced following Jordan’s historic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. While a proud moment, it also highlighted the risks of relying on a single generation rather than a sustainable system.In April 2026, HRH Crown Prince Al Hussein directed the relaunch of the Prince Ali Football Centres under a renewed vision aligned with international best practice. The re‑implementation aims to expand participation, standardise training methodologies, and extend access across all governorates. Framed as a national project, it reflects a commitment to long‑term planning rather than short‑term success.However, challenges remain. Ensuring consistent coaching standards, retaining qualified staff, and managing player transitions into clubs and national teams will require strong governance. A key challenge is embedding high‑quality sports science and football science within the programme. Sustainable success depends on evidence‑based frameworks supported by collaboration with experienced high‑performance managers and world‑leading universities.Establishing a dedicated football research and performance centre would allow for the collection of high‑quality data, not only for research, but for applied sports science. This would support long‑term athlete development, injury prevention, and performance preparation. The centres are ideally positioned to focus on the skill acquisition phase for players aged 10 to 13, a period recognised by sports science as a golden age for motor control development.At this stage, four core skills should underpin development: first touch under pressure; running with the ball at speed; one‑versus‑one ability; and passing and striking for accuracy and power. Financial sustainability is another key challenge. Long‑term success cannot rely on government funding alone. Partnerships with private investors can diversify income, attract world‑leading expertise, and ensure long‑term viability.As Jordan prepares for its first FIFA World Cup appearance, the direction is clear. The re‑implementation of the Prince Ali Football Centres is not a return to the past, but a blueprint for a sustainable football future built from the ground up.

Witkoff, Kushner heading to Pakistan for uncertain Iran talks

Sat, 25 Apr 2026 09:49:31 +0300

AFP- US envoys headed to the Pakistani capital Saturday in a bid to kickstart a new round of peace negotiations with Iran amid a fragile ceasefire, though the prospect of direct talks remained uncertain.The White House said emissaries Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner would engage in an “in-person conversation” with Iranian representatives, but Iranian state media said that direct negotiations were not in the cards.Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in Islamabad on Friday.Despite President Donald Trump’s announcement on Thursday of a three-week ceasefire extension in Lebanon, Israeli strikes in the south of the country killed six people on Friday, the Lebanese health ministry said.While Trump expressed confidence at the prospect of a lasting peace in Lebanon, sealing a deal to end the wider Middle East war is a thornier proposition, even as urgency mounts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a vital conduit for the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG).

Porsche sells Bugatti stake to BlueFive Capital

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 13:42:45 +0300

By : Business EditorJordan Daily - Porsche AG will fully divest its stakes in Bugatti Rimac and Rimac Group, selling them to a consortium led by HOF Capital, with BlueFive Capital as the largest investor alongside US and EU institutional backers.Bugatti Rimac was established in 2021, with Porsche holding 45% and Rimac Group 55%. Porsche also owned a 20.6% stake in Rimac Group. Following the transaction, Rimac Group will take control of Bugatti Rimac and partner strategically with BlueFive Capital and HOF Capital to drive future growth, BlueFive Capital said in a statement received by Jordan Daily.Hazem Ben-Gacem, Founder and CEO of BlueFive Capital, said: “Bugatti is a monument to automotive obsession… we look forward to working alongside the entire Bugatti Rimac team to honor that legacy for generations to come.”Dr. Michael Leiters, CEO of Porsche AG, stated: “We successfully laid the foundation for Bugatti’s future… Now, with the sale of our stake, we are focusing Porsche on the core business.”Mate Rimac, CEO of Bugatti Rimac, added: “Porsche has been a crucial partner… we now have a structure that allows us to execute even faster on our long-term vision.”

Crown Prince to participate in informal meeting of EU, regional partners in Cyprus

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 13:10:39 +0300

Jordan Daily - Deputizing for His Majesty King Abdullah II, His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II on Friday will participate in the informal meeting of European Union and key regional partners in Nicosia, Cyprus.The meeting will address current regional developments, shared challenges, and opportunities for cooperation to sustain comprehensive calm in the region.

Lebanon-Israel ceasefire extended by 3 weeks after Oval Office meeting

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 06:51:50 +0300

Reuters - Lebanon and Israel extended their ceasefire for three weeks after a high-level meeting at the White House, US President Donald Trump said on Thursday. Trump hosted Israel’s ambassador to Washington Yechiel Leiter and Lebanese ambassador to the US Nada Moawad in the Oval Office for a second round of US-facilitated talks, a day after Israeli strikes killed at least five people including a journalist.

“The Meeting went very well! The United States is going to work with Lebanon in order to help it protect itself from Hezbollah,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. Hezbollah, the Iran-aligned armed group that is fighting Israel, was not present at the talks. It says it has “the right to resist” occupying forces.

Trump added that he looked forward to hosting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun in the near future.

Trump also spoke to reporters in the Oval Office alongside the participants in the meeting, saying he hoped the leaders would meet during the three-week cessation of hostilities. He said ‌there was “a great ‌chance” the two countries would reach a peace agreement this year.

Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State ‌Marco ⁠Rubio, US Ambassador to ⁠Israel Mike Huckabee and US Ambassador to Lebanon Michel Issa also attended the meeting.

The ceasefire, reached after talks between the two nations’ ambassadors to Washington last week, was set to expire on Sunday. It has yielded a significant reduction in violence, but attacks have continued in southern Lebanon, where Israeli troops have seized a self-declared buffer zone.‘Make Lebanon great again’

Ambassador Moawad, who went into the meeting seeking an extension of the ceasefire, thanked Trump for hosting the talks. “I think with your help, with your support, we can make Lebanon great again,” she said.

A Lebanese official earlier said Beirut would push for an Israeli withdrawal, the return of Lebanese detained in Israel and a delineation of the land border in a next phase of negotiations.

Israel has sought to make common cause with ⁠Lebanon’s government over Hezbollah, which Beirut has been seeking to disarm peacefully for the past year.

Asked how the ‌US would help Lebanon to fight Hezbollah, Trump did not provide details but said the US ‌had “a great relationship with Lebanon.” Trump said Israel had to be able to defend itself against attacks from Hezbollah.

Trump also called for Lebanon to abolish laws ‌against engagement with Israel. “It’s a crime to talk with Israel?” he responded when asked about the statutes known as anti-normalization laws, which he did not ‌appear to be aware of. “Well, I’m pretty sure that that will be ended very quickly. I’ll make sure of that,” Trump said.Deadliest day since ceasefire

The Israeli military said on Thursday that it killed two armed individuals in southern Lebanon after identifying them approaching soldiers and posing what it described as an immediate threat.

It was not immediately clear whether the incident was related to strikes reported earlier in nearby areas by Lebanon’s health ministry, which said an Israeli air strike had killed three people ‌and artillery shelling wounded two others, including a child.

Wednesday was Lebanon’s deadliest day since the ceasefire took effect on April 16.

Those killed by Israeli strikes included Lebanese journalist Amal Khalil, according to a senior ⁠Lebanese military official and her employer, Al-Akhbar ⁠newspaper.

Israel’s military said on Wednesday it was reviewing an incident in which it had received reports that two journalists were wounded by strikes it said were aimed at vehicles departing a military structure used by Hezbollah. It said Israel does not target journalists.

Hezbollah lawmaker Hassan Fadlallah said the group wanted the ceasefire to continue but “on the basis of full compliance by the Israeli enemy.” At a televised press conference, he reiterated Hezbollah’s objections to the face-to-face talks and urged the government to cancel all forms of direct contact with Israel. Hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel reignited on March 2, when the group opened fire in support of Iran in the regional war. The ceasefire in Lebanon emerged separately from Washington’s efforts to resolve its conflict with Tehran, though Iran had called for Lebanon to be included in any broader truce.

Hezbollah said it carried out four operations in south Lebanon on Wednesday in response to Israeli strikes.

Nearly 2,500 people have been killed in Lebanon since Israel went on the offensive following Hezbollah’s March 2 attack, according to Lebanese authorities.

Israel is occupying a belt of the south that extends 5 to 10 km (3 to 6 miles) into Lebanon, saying it aims to shield northern Israel from attacks by Hezbollah, which has fired hundreds of rockets during the war.

Israel’s military reiterated a warning to residents of south Lebanon not to cross into the area.

Gold buying guide: Tips for investing in jewelry

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 06:57:29 +0300

Jordan Daily - In times of economic uncertainty and fluctuating currency values, gold often emerges as a safe haven for protecting savings. However, purchasing gold, especially for preserving financial value, requires careful consideration.When buying gold, always request to see the item weighed in front of you and verify the accuracy of the displayed weight. Ensure that the piece bears an official hallmark or stamp. Purchase only from reputable sources or well-known establishments.Always secure an official, itemized, and stamped invoice from the seller. This should detail the carat, total weight, the gold price on the purchase date, the manufacturing cost , and a description of the item.For those primarily seeking a store of value, it is advisable to purchase 24-carat gold bullion or gold coins.If the intention is solely for adornment, select pieces based on personal preference, considering the manufacturing cost as a premium for the aesthetic appeal, which is not recoverable upon resale. A balanced approach involves opting for 21-carat pieces with classic, simple designs and lower manufacturing costs.Experts recommend avoiding purchases during these peak times and instead buying during quieter periods while closely monitoring gold prices.Globally, gold prices are influenced by the U.S. dollar's value and geopolitical events, typically showing an inverse relationship with the dollar and interest rates. Locally, market dynamics are also affected by supply and demand.It's also worth noting that jewelry prices often rise in many local markets during holidays, wedding seasons, and year-end festivities.The price of a gold item is calculated through a straightforward method: first, determine the price per gram, which represents the gold value without labor costs. Then, add the manufacturing cost ( مصنعية ), which varies significantly based on the piece's intricacy, details, and brand. Finally, include any applicable taxes or stamping fees.Negotiating the manufacturing cost is advisable, especially for heavier or simpler designs. Manufacturing costs are typically higher for well-known brands and complex handmade designs but are minimal for bullion and coins.Avoid pieces with embedded gems or stones, as these increase the manufacturing cost and decrease the resale value, since jewelers deduct the weight of the stones upon resale. Some reliable companies, however, allow resale without deducting the weight of the stones.Before visiting a jeweler, understanding the different gold carats and their uses is essential. The carat indicates the percentage of pure gold in the piece versus other metals added for durability. 24-carat gold is 99.9% pure and known for its bright yellow color. Being less durable, it is mainly used in bullion and is the preferred choice for long-term savings due to its retained value upon sale.21-carat gold (87.5% gold) strikes a balance between durability and a rich, reddish hue, making it suitable for crafting and a balanced option due to lower manufacturing costs compared to 18-carat gold.18-carat gold (75% gold) is stronger, more durable, and lighter in color, making it ideal for intricate designs or everyday wear items like bracelets and necklaces. However, it is less cost-effective for pure investment due to higher manufacturing costs.It is a common mistake to purchase elaborate jewelry for investment purposes. Their value decreases upon resale due to the deduction of manufacturing costs.Additional Tips:Keep the invoice to protect your rights when reselling.Store each piece in a cloth or velvet bag to avoid scratches.Avoid selling gold for at least three to five years to overcome manufacturing costs and benefit from rising global prices.Gold can be a reliable asset if approached with care and intelligence.

Petra University wins gold at Jordan nuclear science competition

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 14:29:16 +0300

Jordan Daily – University of Petra won the top gold ranking among Jordanian universities at the 2026 Jordanian Nuclear Science Competition, the university said, marking a new scientific achievement for the institution.The winning team, “GammaFlow” from the university’s chemistry department, was recognized at an event organized by the Jordan Atomic Energy Commission, which drew broad participation from students, researchers and educators.The team secured first place for its project, “Gamma-Modified Membranes for Smart Water Purification,” aimed at developing sustainable solutions for greywater treatment amid rising water scarcity in Jordan.The system combines gamma radiation to enhance membrane durability, electrospinning to produce high-efficiency filtration materials, and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies for real-time water quality monitoring.University President Rami Abdul Rahem said the achievement reflects the University’s research capabilities and student innovation, while praising the team’s efforts and the support of academic staff.During the ceremony, chairman of the Jordan Atomic Energy Commission Khaled Toukan honored the university for its continued support of scientific research and innovation.Project leaders said the technology improves treatment efficiency, reduces operational costs and extends membrane lifespan. It targets greywater, which accounts for 50–70% of household wastewater, enabling reuse for irrigation and cleaning.They added the system is scalable and can be locally manufactured at low cost, with potential applications ranging from households to larger institutions.

CBJ announces real-time settlement system to enhance payment security

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 13:04:55 +0300

Jordan Daily - The Central Bank of Jordan (CBJ) announced on Thursday the launch of a new Real Time Gross Settlement system (RTGS-JO), designed to enable banks to process financial transfers instantly and securely.The system operates via a closed virtual private network (VPN) within the kingdom, aimed at strengthening cybersecurity and safeguarding financial data. It also reduces reliance on external networks and ensures continuity of operations during emergencies or international disruptions, CBJ noted in a statement seen by Jordan Daily.The central bank said the upgraded platform would enhance the speed and efficiency of interbank transfers, lower operational risks, and improve the quality of banking services offered to individuals and businesses.The RTGS-JO system also supports Jordan’s broader financial digitalization efforts, helping to reduce operational costs while reinforcing the stability of the country’s financial system.The move comes as part of the central bank’s strategy to modernize financial infrastructure, deliver more secure and reliable digital services, and keep pace with global developments in financial communications.

Trump says Iran will not execute eight women after his request

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 06:43:56 +0300

AFP- Donald Trump on Wednesday said Iran had halted alleged plans to execute eight women arrested over anti-government protests, after he urged Tehran to release them to help peace negotiations.

Iran's judiciary, however, described the US president's claims as "false news," saying they had never faced the death penalty in the first place.

“I very much appreciate that Iran, and its leaders, respected my request, as President of the United States, and terminated the planned execution,” Trump said on his Truth Social platform.

Rights groups have said at least one woman arrested over the January protests has been sentenced to death while at least one more is facing charges that carry the death penalty and could see her executed.

Trump had earlier said on social media that the women’s release could work in Iran’s favor in negotiations, reposting an activist’s claim that eight women were facing death by hanging.

That claim did not give names but included photographs of the women.

After Trump's comment, the Iranian judiciary's Mizan Online website posted on X: "Despite the claim from last night being exposed as a lie, Trump, just minutes ago in another post, claimed that the death sentences of eight protesting women who were supposed to be executed tonight in Iran have been cancelled, and thanked Iran!"

"Trump's empty hand in the field has led him to fabricate achievements from false news," it said.

The fate of US-Iran talks hosted by Pakistan remains unclear. A previous round collapsed with Tehran accusing the United States of making excessive demands over the Strait of Hormuz and its nuclear program.
Rights groups accuse the Islamic republic of using capital punishment to instill fear throughout society and stepping up executions of political prisoners against the background of the war against the United States and Israel.

Tamatem acquires Playable Factory, expands ad tech capabilities

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 19:57:39 +0300

By : Business EditorJordan Daily - Tamatem said it has fully acquired Playable Factory, aiming to strengthen its advertising technology capabilities and accelerate its transition into an AI-first gaming platform.Playable Factory, founded in Istanbul, has created more than 90,000 playable ads and delivers interactive advertising formats that help game developers boost user acquisition, with up to eightfold higher install conversion rates and improved retention, according to the companies.“Today is a defining moment for Tamatem,” the founder and CEO of Tamatem, Hussam Hammo said. “With Playable Factory, we’re bringing one of the most advanced playable ads technologies in the world into our platform.”The deal allows Tamatem to integrate global ad tech into its ecosystem, combining content, distribution, payments and advertising. The company has published over 70 localized games, reaching more than 300 million downloads.Playable Factory founder Berat Oguz said, “Joining Tamatem allows us to scale this technology globally while continuing to deliver high-performance solutions to our partners.”Tamatem said it is investing in artificial intelligence across game development, marketing and player experience, aiming to “fundamentally transform how games are built, marketed, and experienced.”The acquisition comes as Tamatem adds investors including Square Enix and Next Ventures, with existing backer Krafton increasing its stake, bringing total funding to over $25 million.Tamatem now operates across six offices in Amman, Riyadh, Abu Dhabi, Cairo, Istanbul, and Baghdad, with a team of 180 employees and plans to expand beyond the Middle East and North Africa.

Lake Victoria women defy taboos, embrace fishing amidst climate concerns

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 15:00:41 +0300

Jordan Daily - For decades, fishing in Lake Victoria villages was a male-dominated profession, but now women are breaking those barriers due to economic pressures and climate change.Roda Ong’uchi Aketch, now in her 60s, recalls the whispers when she first set foot on a fishing boat in 2002. At 39, and a mother of seven, she was about to defy a long-standing social taboo: women were not allowed on fishing boats.Aketch explained that her village believed that women joining men on the lake would lead to sexual relationships, but she persisted, proving she was there to learn. Eventually, the community accepted her.In Kagwell village, Kisumu County, western Kenya, fishing was exclusively for men, while women bought and sold the fish. This division began to erode due to economic hardships, exacerbated by climate change, which is depleting the lake’s fish stocks.William Okido, a 57-year-old village elder, noted that traditions were stricter concerning menstruation, believing a woman in that state would scare away fish. Even men were prohibited from marital relations before fishing trips.Before 2002, Aketch was a fishmonger, but her income dwindled due to rising costs. Inspired by women from Homa Bay who were already fishing, she enlisted two young men to teach her. Despite warnings, she persevered for her family.Aketch fished alone for 16 years before Faith Ower Angawo, a 37-year-old mother of four, joined her in 2018. Angawo, a former fish vendor, initially faced resistance from her husband but eventually gained his support.By 2022, the sight of women fishing became commonplace. Janet Ndoyie, 42, faced no opposition when she joined, as the community had grown accustomed to Aketch and Angawo.Wilson Ongulo, fisheries officer in the Simi sub-county, revealed that boat owners could earn between 6,000 and 8,000 Kenyan shillings (USD 46-62), while crew members earned 500 to 800 shillings (USD 3.88-6.20), surpassing the 500 shillings women earned from reselling fish.Okido acknowledged the breakdown of social barriers, stating that economic difficulties are pushing women to defy taboos. Fisherman Delmas Onyango, 35, confirmed that most of his colleagues now support women’s decision to fish.Aketch has observed a gradual decline in fish stocks over the past 23 years. Chris Mutai, a meteorologist in Kisumu, attributes this to climate change, which has increased water temperatures, promoted algae growth, and reduced oxygen levels. He anticipates a further temperature rise and advocates for protecting fish breeding grounds and halting pollution.Lake Victoria supports over 42 million people who depend on it for food, work, and drinking water. However, it suffers from overfishing, pollution, and climate change, leading to a decline in individual shares despite an annual production of about one million tons of fish.Despite their progress, women find themselves in a formal ambiguity. Susan Claire, acting director of fisheries and blue economy in Kisumu, stated that there are no women officially engaged in fishing, which deprives them of official support. However, Christopher Aura, director of freshwater research at the Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute, reported in 2023 that the lake has over 47,000 fishermen, including 1,000 women, indicating a discrepancy in county data.For Ndoyie, fishing revenues now cover her children’s university fees, which was previously difficult. However, the livelihood Aketch has carved out is becoming more fragile. Nevertheless, the four women continue to sail each dawn, finding that on scarce days, their income falls below that of fish selling, but on good days, it remains sufficient to justify the effort.Aketch concludes with a local saying: "A man without land is a man without life," leaving its parallel unspoken: a fisherman without fish faces the same fate.

Indonesia condemns Israeli banner over the Indonesian Hospital in Gaza

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 13:26:54 +0300

Jordan Daily - Indonesia on Wednesday strongly condemned the placement of the “Rising Lion” banner by Israeli forces over the ruins of the Indonesian Hospital in Gaza, calling the act “a highly provocative act” that “cannot be justified.”In a statement, seen by Jordan Daily Indonesia’s foreign ministry said, “The use of military symbols and propaganda over the ruins of a destroyed hospital, especially when linked to a specific military operation, is a highly provocative act and cannot be justified.”“The Indonesian Hospital is a civilian facility dedicated solely to providing medical services for the people of Gaza, not a place for military propaganda or intimidation,” the statement added.The hospital, built from donations by the Indonesian public, represents what the government described as “the solidarity of the Indonesian people for the Palestinian people.” Jakarta said the incident “is an insult to a humanitarian facility.”Indonesia reiterated that “hospitals and all medical facilities must be respected and protected under international humanitarian law.”It also called on Israel “to stop all actions that violate the protection of civilian infrastructure and to ensure accountability for attacks against medical facilities in Gaza.”

Amman to host fintech summit on April 29

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 09:31:50 +0300

By : News EditorJordan Daily - Jordan will host the Fintech Summit Middle East 2026 next week, bringing together regional and global leaders in banking, technology and regulation as the Middle East accelerates its push toward digital finance.The one-day event, scheduled for April 29 at the Fairmont Hotel in Amman, is expected to convene hundreds of participants from across the financial services ecosystem, including banks, fintech startups, investors and policymakers.Organisers describe the summit as a platform to “accelerate financial innovation” by fostering collaboration between traditional financial institutions and emerging technology players.The gathering comes at a time when the Middle East’s fintech sector is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by advances in artificial intelligence, digital payments and regulatory reform. Industry events across the region have multiplied as governments and private investors seek to position the Middle East as a global hub for financial technology.More than 300 professionals are expected to attend the Amman summit, representing sectors ranging from payments and digital banking to e-commerce and financial infrastructure.The agenda includes keynote speeches, panel discussions and networking sessions aimed at turning strategy into practical outcomes, with topics such as scaling fintech innovation, regulatory frameworks and cross-sector partnerships.Jordan has emerged as a growing fintech hub within the Levant, supported by an expanding startup ecosystem and increasing regulatory engagement, making it a natural host for the event.

Seres unveils in-car toilet patent, aiming to redefine road trip comfort

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 15:07:15 +0300

Jordan Daily - Chinese automaker Seres has sparked considerable interest with its patent application for a concealed in-car toilet system, signaling a shift towards smart solutions for user needs within vehicles.The innovation reflects a broader trend in car design that extends beyond engine power and self-driving capabilities to address everyday practical needs, such as the pressing concern of restroom access during long journeys or traffic congestion.Seres, based in Chongqing, is a rising company in the electric and hybrid vehicle sector. Its innovations gain further weight through its strategic partnership with technology giant Huawei. The collaboration has produced the "AITO" brand, merging Seres' manufacturing capabilities with Huawei's digital and AI systems.The integrated toilet concept aims to enhance the notion of a car as a smart "mobile home" that offers comprehensive solutions for its occupants.The patent focuses on utilizing unused space within the car cabin by integrating a concealed toilet beneath the front passenger seat.The operational mechanism includes a sliding drawer structure for flexible unit retraction and smart controls that allow the toilet to be summoned manually or via voice commands. This maintains the cabin's luxurious appearance without compromising daily seating comfort.Seres has also incorporated a comprehensive system to ensure cleanliness and odor control within the confined cabin environment. This includes a dedicated fan to expel odors directly outside the vehicle, along with an integrated heating element designed to dry solid waste and evaporate liquids, reducing their volume and simplifying handling.Waste is collected in a detachable tank, which can be manually emptied for practical and convenient disposal.The company clarified that the system is intended for use during stationary periods, such as traffic jams, camping trips, or long queues at service stations, rather than while the vehicle is in motion for safety reasons. This offers invaluable peace of mind for travelers, especially families, children, and the elderly.While Seres pioneers integrated innovation, practical solutions are available to meet travelers' needs, ranging from foldable toilets to those with water tanks.Seres' innovation marks a new perspective on the future of automobiles, shifting the focus from mere transportation to a comprehensive human experience.Whether consumers prefer advanced integrated systems or practical portable solutions, the automotive industry is officially addressing the finer details of human comfort, regardless of the nature of the need.

Trump extends ceasefire until Iranian proposal is submitted, talks are over

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 06:51:36 +0300

AP- President Donald Trump said Tuesday the United States is extending its ceasefire with Iran at Pakistan’s request as he waits for a unified proposal from the Islamic Republic.The announcement came as last-minute ceasefire talks between the US and Iran looked uncertain and a two-week truce was set to expire Wednesday.Earlier, the White House put on hold Vice President JD Vance’s expected trip to Islamabad for a second round of talks as Tehran — at least for the time-being — has balked at further talks.In a Truth Social post announcing the ceasefire extension, Trump also said the US military would continue it’s blockade of Iranian ports.As last-minute ceasefire talks between the US and Iran looked uncertain, both countries warned that, without a deal, they were prepared to resume fighting.Pakistani leaders, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, worked intensively late Tuesday to get both sides to agree to a second round of ceasefire talks, according to two officials who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak to the media.Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei told Iran’s state TV there has been “no final decision” on whether to attend because of “unacceptable actions” by the US, apparently referencing its recent blockade in the Strait of Hormuz.As Vance put on hold a return trip to Islamabad, Pakistan’s capital, Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner were expected in Washington on Tuesday afternoon for consultations about how to proceed, said a US official who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss internal administration deliberations.The official cautioned that Trump could change his mind on negotiating with Iran at any time, and declined to predict what would happen if the current ceasefire expires without another meeting. The official said Trump has options short of restarting airstrikes.Both sides remain dug in rhetoricallyBefore announcing the ceasefire extension, Trump had warned that “lots of bombs” will “start going off” if there’s no agreement before the Wednesday deadline, while Iran’s chief negotiator said that Tehran has “new cards on the battlefield” that haven’t yet been revealed.A senior commander in Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps threatened to destroy the region’s oil industry if war with the US resumes. “If southern neighbors allow the enemy to use their facilities to attack Iran, they should say goodbye to oil production in the Middle East region,” Gen. Majid Mousavi told an Iranian news site.Strait of Hormuz control key to negotiationsIran’s envoy to the United Nations said Tuesday that Tehran has “received some sign” that the US is ready to stop its blockade of Iranian ports. The US had made no public statements about lifting the blockade.Ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani said ending the blockade remains a condition for Iran to rejoin peace talks. When that happens, he said, “I think the next round of the negotiations will take place.”The US imposed the blockade to pressure Tehran into ending its stranglehold on the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping lane through which 20 percent of the world’s natural gas and crude oil transits in peacetime.Iran’s grip on the strait has sent oil prices soaring. Brent crude, the international standard, was trading at close to $95 per barrel on Tuesday, up more than 30 percent from Feb. 28, the day that Israel and the US attacked Iran to start the war.Before the war began, the Strait of Hormuz had been fully open to international shipping. Trump has demanded that vessels again be allowed to transit unimpeded.Over the weekend, Iran said that it had received new proposals from Washington, but also suggested that a wide gap remains between the sides. Issues that derailed the last round of negotiations included Iran’s nuclear enrichment program, its regional proxies and the strait.Pakistan hopeful talks will proceedPakistani officials have expressed confidence that Iran will also send a delegation to resume talks that mark the highest-level negotiations between the US and Iran since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. The first round April 11 and 12 ended without an agreement.Pakistan said Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar met Tuesday with the acting US ambassador in Islamabad to urge a ceasefire extension. Dar also met with the ambassador from China, a key trading partner with Iran.Security has been tightened across Pakistan’s capital, where authorities have deployed thousands of personnel and increased patrols along routes leading to the airport.Since the war started, at least 3,375 people have been killed in Iran, according to authorities. Additionally, 23 people have died in Israel and more than a dozen in Gulf Arab states. Fifteen Israeli soldiers in Lebanon and 13 US service members throughout the region have been killed.

Queen meets Jordanian entrepreneurs; visits Ezwitti Initiative in Amman

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 20:15:40 +0300

Jordan Daily - Her Majesty Queen Rania Al Abdullah met with local entrepreneurs and representatives of Jordanian companies during a visit to Jabal Al Weibdeh in Amman on Tuesday. She stopped by Ezwitti initiative in downtown Amman.During the meeting held at Bulbul Eatery, Her Majesty joined a group of Jordanian entrepreneurs and representatives of Endeavor Jordan and Beyond Capital for a discussion about challenges and opportunities that business owners are facing in the local job market.Her Majesty heard from Tamer Al Salah, Managing Director of Endeavour Jordan, which is part of the global Endeavor network, who explained how his organisation aims to drive sustainable local economic growth and support job creation by accelerating the growth of high-impact entrepreneurial projects in the country.Established by and for entrepreneurs, Endeavor serves as a global training, mentoring, and investment platform for future business founders, with its Jordanian chapter launched in 2009.During the meeting, the Queen heard from the team of Beyond Capital, a Jordan-based venture capital platform founded in 2017 through a partnership between Endeavor Jordan and Silicon Badia.The company invests in venture capital funds and startups that strive to create economic value for Jordan.Afterward, Queen Rania visited Ezwitti, a social initiative that works on securing food aid for members of the community, where she met with its Founder Mahmoud Nabulsi and a number of volunteers.Established in 2015, the initiative operates through a voucher-based system that enables its restaurant customers to purchase an additional meal for people in need, without requiring direct handover.This model allows for the distribution of meals while preserving the dignity of those in need and promoting a sense of shared responsibility.To date, Ezwitti, has provided over 400,000 meals through its growing network of more than 3,700 volunteers.The initiative, whose model has been adopted in Oman, eventually aims to expand to several governorates in Jordan and other countries across the Arab World.

Gate to Pay positions itself at core of Jordan’s digital payments push

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 10:58:24 +0300

By : Business EditorJordan Daily - In a region where cash has long dominated daily transactions, Jordanian fintech firm Gate to Pay is positioning itself as a quiet architect of the shift toward digital finance, building the infrastructure that allows money to move instantly, invisibly, and at scale.Founded in 2014 and headquartered in Amman, the company operates as a payment service provider and Banking-as-a-Service (BaaS) platform, offering tools that allow businesses, governments and individuals to send, receive and manage money electronically.From prepaid cards and mobile wallets to payment acceptance and remittance services, Gate to Pay’s model is less about consumer branding and more about embedding financial technology into the systems of its partners - a strategy increasingly common among fintech infrastructure providers globally.Building rails, not just appsAt the core of Gate to Pay’s offering is a suite of white-label and API-driven solutions that allow companies to launch their own financial products without building the underlying technology. The firm enables card issuance, payment acquiring and cross-border transfers, while also supporting digital wallets and e-commerce transactions.This “infrastructure-first” approach reflects a broader trend in financial technology, where firms compete to become the backend engine powering everything from corporate payouts to consumer-facing apps.Gate to Pay’s cloud-based platform, for example, allows businesses to manage transactions across employees, suppliers and customers through centralized wallets and portals, enabling instant, cashless payments across multiple channels.The company says its systems are designed to handle multi-currency transactions and support both virtual and physical cards, positioning it as a flexible partner for enterprises operating across borders.Licensed growth in a regulated marketOperating under the oversight of the Central Bank of Jordan, Gate to Pay has built its business within a tightly regulated financial environment - a factor that can both constrain and legitimize fintech growth.Regulatory compliance has become a key selling point, particularly as financial institutions and corporates seek partners that can navigate security, fraud prevention and data governance requirements.The firm is also a member of global payment networks such as Mastercard, Visa and UnionPay, allowing it to connect local financial activity with international payment ecosystems.Targeting financial inclusion and enterprise efficiencyGate to Pay’s client base spans corporates, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and even households, reflecting its dual focus on financial inclusion and operational efficiency.Its prepaid card products, for instance, allow users to transact without a traditional bank account - a feature that can be critical in markets where banking penetration remains uneven.On the enterprise side, its corporate cash management tools aim to digitize payroll, supplier payments and other financial flows, reducing reliance on manual processes and physical cash.The company has also expanded into loyalty programs and mobile wallet ecosystems, offering features such as peer-to-peer payments, cashback rewards and near-field communication (NFC) payments - aligning with global consumer trends toward contactless and app-based transactions.Part of a broader regional shiftGate to Pay’s rise comes amid a wider push across the Middle East to modernize financial systems and accelerate digital adoption. Governments and regulators are increasingly encouraging cashless economies, while startups and incumbents alike compete to build the infrastructure supporting that transition.Partnerships - such as collaborations with digital signature providers and card issuers - suggest the company is seeking to deepen its role in the region’s financial ecosystem, particularly as demand grows for secure, compliant digital transactions.With a qualified workforce and a growing portfolio of products, Gate to Pay is still a mid-sized player by global standards. But its positioning - as an enabler rather than a direct competitor to banks - reflects a strategy that could allow it to scale alongside the institutions it serves.The road aheadAs digital payments continue to expand across emerging markets, the challenge for companies like Gate to Pay will be balancing innovation with trust - ensuring systems remain secure, reliable and compliant in an increasingly complex financial landscape.For now, the company’s ambition is clear: to become a foundational layer in the region’s digital economy, helping businesses and consumers move beyond cash.

Al Hussien FC stands firm under extreme fixture congestion as sports science puts performances in context

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 10:33:01 +0300

Dr. Fadi MaayahCurtin University, AustraliaJordan Daily - In football, results are often judged in isolation. A win brings praise, a loss invites criticism, and performances are analysed as if each match stands alone. For Al Hussien FC, however, the current season demands a much wider lens. What the team is facing goes well beyond normal competitive pressure and into territory rarely seen in modern football.Over a short and exceptionally demanding period, Al Hussien FC have navigated a congested fixture calendar shaped by continental success, national priorities, postponed matches, and regional instability. Between 4 and 19 April, the club played five competitive matches in just 15 days across the Jordanian Pro League and AFC competitions. This sequence began with a dominant 5–0 league victory against Al Salt FC, followed by a controlled 1–0 win over Al Ahli FC. These performances reflected organisation, tactical discipline, and physical sharpness. Football science, however, shows that the true cost of such schedules often appears later rather than immediately.From a physiological perspective, the consequences are well established. After a single 90‑minute match, players experience neuromuscular fatigue affecting both muscle function and the nervous system. Research demonstrates reductions in sprint speed, jumping ability, maximal strength, and the capacity to repeat high‑intensity actions. Under normal conditions, full recovery requires between 48 and 72 hours. When matches are played every three to four days, especially alongside travel and psychological stress, fatigue accumulates rather than resolving.The narrow 0–1 defeat against Al Faisaly FC illustrated this strain. Al Hussien played with 10 men for approximately 55 minutes after a second yellow card. Competing with a reduced number significantly increases physical and mental demands, forcing greater distance covered per player and prolonged defensive effort. From a recovery and load perspective, matches played a player down are among the most physically costly in football.The response was impressive. Al Hussien followed that setback with a convincing 3–0 victory over Al Ramtha, built not on constant high‑intensity running but on structure, discipline, and tactical intelligence. As neuromuscular fatigue rises, successful teams rely less on repeated explosive actions and more on positioning, organisation, and decision making. These qualities were clearly evident in that performance.The delayed effects of fatigue became more apparent in the AFC match against the Qatari club Al Ahli. Al Hussien were highly competitive in the first half, finishing level at 1–1 against a fully professional side supported by a substantially larger budget. To place this in context, the contract of one Al Ahli player reportedly exceeds the combined budgets of two to three clubs in the Jordanian Pro League. Matching that level for 45 minutes was a significant achievement. In the second half, however, neuromuscular fatigue was evident, reflecting accumulated physical load rather than shortcomings in mentality or technical quality.This period is exceptional precisely because it is not normal. The Jordanian Pro League calendar has been accelerated to allow the national team to prepare for upcoming World Cup qualifiers. At the same time, Al Hussien FC’s success in the AFC Champions League Two, including qualification for the quarter‑final stages, placed additional demands on an already compressed season. In this context, success has come with a heavy physical price.These challenges were intensified by regional disruptions before this congested run began. Security developments affected air travel and match scheduling, leaving Al Hussien stranded in Qatar and unable to follow their usual home‑and‑away routine. Long bus journeys and limited flights became unavoidable, while postponed AFC matches further compressed the calendar once competition resumed.The challenge is far from over. Upcoming fixtures will again follow a three‑ to four‑day turnaround across league and cup competitions, including matches against Sama Al Sarhan, Shabab Al Ordon, Al Jazeera in the Jordan Cup, and the final league round against Al Faisaly FC. Such congestion, driven by continental success, national team preparation, and unpredictable regional conditions, is rarely seen in world football.Managing this situation requires strategic and scientific solutions. Squad rotation is critical, particularly by blending experienced players with emerging youth to distribute physical load while maintaining tactical balance. Recovery strategies must be prioritised, including foam rolling, water immersion, and ice baths to manage muscle soreness and neuromuscular fatigue. Nutrition also plays a key role, with appropriate fuelling, hydration, and recovery foods, including beetroot juice to support blood flow and recovery.As Al Hussien FC pursue a third consecutive Jordanian Pro League title, performances must be judged with context and science in mind. This is not simply a football story, but a clear case study of how success, congestion, and fatigue intersect at the highest level of the modern game.

Charter flight with 105 French tourists arrives in Jordan with JTB support

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 05:42:54 +0300

Jordan Daily -A charter flight from France carrying 105 French tourists arrived at Queen Alia International Airport in Amman on Sunday, April 19, 2026, coinciding with World Heritage Day, with support from the Jordan Tourism Board (JTB). The trip was organized by Atelier des Voyages.The group will spend six nights in Jordan, visiting a selection of the Kingdom’s key attractions, including Petra, the Baptism Site, and other destinations across the country. The itinerary concludes with departure from King Hussein International Airport in Aqaba.Director General of the Jordan Tourism Board, Ramzi Al-Maaytah, described the flight as a positive indicator of the recovery of inbound tourism from the French market. He noted that Jordan continues to strengthen its position as a competitive global destination, supported by its reputation for safety, stability, and rich cultural heritage.Al-Maaytah added that the Board, in cooperation with the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities and industry partners, is implementing targeted marketing initiatives and incentive programs for charter and low-cost carriers. These efforts aim to respond to evolving market dynamics, diversify source markets, and attract more high-quality flights in the coming period.The arrival of direct charter flights from key European markets reflects growing confidence in Jordan’s tourism sector and underscores the impact of coordinated promotional efforts between the public and private sectors.Upon arrival, the JTB charter flights team welcomed the French delegation and introduced them to Jordan’s diverse tourism experiences, highlighting the significance of the sites included in their program. The Board reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing the visitor experience, maintaining high service standards, and promoting Jordan as a safe and diverse destination rich in authentic hospitality and UNESCO World Heritage sites.

King, Finland president attend tactical exercise at KASOTC

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 19:24:58 +0300

Jordan Daily - His Majesty King Abdullah II, the Supreme Commander of the Jordan Armed Forces-Arab Army, and Finland President Alexander Stubb on Monday attended a military tactical exercise at King Abdullah II Special Operations Training Centre (KASOTC).His Majesty and President Stubb, accompanied by Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Maj. Gen. Yousef Huneiti, were briefed on the centre’s training programmes, and its leading role in the training and qualification of special operations units at both regional and international levels.The exercise involved carrying out operational scenarios that simulate contemporary security challenges, demonstrating the use of modern technology and a high level of proficiency in planning and execution, thereby enhancing the ability of the Jordan Armed Forces-Arab Army to respond effectively to a variety of situations.The King and the Finnish president toured the centre, inspecting the training grounds, technical equipment and facilities.His Majesty emphasised the importance of continuing to develop the defence capabilities of the armed forces, and strengthening cooperation and coordination with active partners, in order to address security challenges and maintain security and stability.For his part, President Stubb expressed admiration for the advanced level of the centre and its facilities and training programmes, and praised the competence of the Jordan Armed Forces-Arab Army.

Majali says Royal Jordanian 2025 performance indicators confirm the success of modernization and expansion strategy

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 16:19:03 +0300

Jordan Daily - The General Assembly of Royal Jordanian Airlines held its ordinary and extraordinary meeting on Monday, 20 April 2026, virtually, chaired by Samer Majali, Vice Chairman / CEO (Designated), on behalf of the Chairman of the Board of Directors, Eng. Said Darwazah as he is currently outside the country on a business trip, in the presence of Board members, a representative of the Companies Controller Department, representatives of the Government Investment Management Company, external auditors Ernst & Young, as well as a number of shareholders and employees.During the meeting, the Board of Directors’ report on the company’s activities and results for the financial year 2025, the business plan for 2026, the auditors’ report, the annual balance sheet, and the profit and loss statement for the fiscal year were discussed and approved by the General Assembly. In the same context, the extraordinary General Assembly meeting was held for several key purposes aligned with the company’s direction, aimed at strengthening its investment base and diversifying its sources of income.In his opening remarks, Majali stated that 2025 represented an exceptional milestone in the company’s journey, as Royal Jordanian achieved unprecedented financial and operational results that confirm the success of the transformation strategy adopted since 2021.Also expressed appreciation for the continued Royal Hashemite patronage of Royal Jordanian, highlighting His Majesty the King’s visit to the company and the laying of the foundation stone for the new air cargo terminal, reinforcing Jordan’s logistics role, as well as the recent visit of His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein to the company’s headquarters. He also commended the ongoing support of the Jordanian government, which has played a key role in enabling RJ to implement its strategic plans, overcome various challenges, enhance operational efficiency, and improve institutional performance.Majali stated that the achievements recorded by Royal Jordanian during 2025 reflect the strength of its operational model and the effectiveness of its cost-control and revenue optimization policies. The company recorded a net profit of JOD 21.5 million, including non-recurring capital gains, compared to a net loss of JOD 3.5 million in 2024. This turnaround was driven by a significant increase in operating revenues, which grew by 11% to reach JOD 829 million.RJ also recorded strong operational indicators, including carrying 4.4 million passengers, representing an 18% increase, and achieving load factor of 81%, the highest in the company’s history along with advanced on-time performance levels. This positioned Royal Jordanian among the top five airlines globally in punctuality, reflecting the efficiency of its network management and improved operational returns.In terms of fleet modernization, Majali noted that 2025 witnessed a significant milestone with the introduction of 19 new aircraft, including Airbus A320neo and Embraer E2 models serving short- and medium-haul routes. The airline also commenced the refurbishment of its Boeing 787-8 fleet and the introduction of in-flight connectivity, bringing the fleet modernization to approximately 80%, making it among the most modern in the region. The full fleet upgrade is expected to be completed by the end of 2026, which will also see the introduction of the first two Boeing 787-9 aircraft for long-haul operations, in addition to three Airbus A321neo aircraft for medium-haul routes, as part of a strategy to expand the fleet to around 40 aircraft in the coming years.Royal Jordanian also continued its qualitative expansion, launching key destinations including Washington, Mumbai, Damascus, Aleppo, Benghazi, Casablanca, and Najaf. Key planned destinations for 2026 include Hamburg, Munich, Dallas, and Vienna.On the investment front, and as part of restructuring its investment portfolio, Royal Jordanian increased its stake in the Jordan Flight Catering Company to 51%, maintained full ownership of Jordan Airline Training & Simulation JATS, and holds a 90% stake in Jordan Airports Company, in addition to the reactivation of Amman City Airport, further strengthening the integration of air transport and supporting services.Regarding the first quarter of 2026, Majali noted that results will be impacted by exceptional regional conditions, most notably escalating tensions and the effects of the war, which have disrupted civil aviation operations, led to flight rerouting, and necessitated adjustments to flight routes to ensure the highest safety standards, in addition to the sharp rise in global fuel prices, which has increased operating costs.Majali emphasized that Royal Jordanian has demonstrated a responsible national role during this period by ensuring the continuity of civil air transport operations and managing operational challenges with flexibility and efficiency. This has contributed to maintaining travel movement, transporting passengers, and supporting sectors related to tourism, trade, and humanitarian services.

PBI Aqaba CEO meets Czech Ambassador to explore industrial cooperation opportunities

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 06:45:41 +0300

By : News EditorJordan Daily- The Chief Executive Officer of PBI Aqaba Industrial Estate, Adele Yan, met with Andrea Kučerová, Ambassador of the Czech Republic to Jordan, to discuss potential economic cooperation and investment opportunities, the company said on Sunday.The meeting also included Tereza Valášková, Deputy Head of Mission and Head of the Economic and Commercial Section.During the visit, Yan introduced PBI Aqaba Industrial Estate and highlighted the strategic role of Aqaba as an emerging logistics and industrial hub serving regional and international markets.The discussions focused on exploring avenues for collaboration and facilitating connections between Czech companies and investment opportunities in Aqaba. Both sides expressed interest in strengthening economic ties and promoting high-quality industrial investments.Yan noted the global reputation of Czech industries for advanced manufacturing and innovation, describing them as aligned with the estate’s strategy to attract value-driven investments.The two sides agreed to continue engagement and pursue follow-up steps aimed at deepening cooperation and encouraging Czech business participation in Aqaba’s industrial sector.PBI, a UK-registered company operating under a concession agreement with the Jordan Industrial Estates Corporation since 2005, manages and develops the Aqaba International Industrial Estate, which spans about 1.7 million square metres.

US seizes Iranian cargo ship as Tehran rejects a second round of peace talks

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 06:18:26 +0300

Agencies- US President Donald Trump said on Sunday that the US military had seized an Iranian cargo ship that tried to run its blockade, while Iran said it would not participate in a second round of peace talks despite Trump’s threat of renewed airstrikes.The developments indicated that peace may not come soon to the region, and a weeks-long blockade of marine traffic that has driven global oil prices higher likewise might remain in place.The US has maintained a blockade of Iranian ports, while Iran has lifted and then reimposed its own blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, which before the war began almost two months ago handled roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply.Trump said on Sunday that the US military took control of an Iranian-flagged cargo ship that had tried to get past the blockade. “We have full custody of their ship, and are seeing what’s on board!” he wrote on social media, adding that US forces blew a hole in ‌the vessel’s engine ‌room.Trump had earlier warned Iran that the United States would destroy every bridge and power plant in Iran if Tehran rejects his terms, continuing a pattern of such threats throughout the war.Iran has said that if the United States were to attack its civilian infrastructure it would hit power stations and desalination plants of Gulf Arab neighbors.Iranian state media suggest new talks won’t take placeThere was no comment from Iranian officials directly addressing Trump’s announcement of talks. However, Iranian state media, without citing anyone beyond unnamed sources, issued brief reports suggesting that they would not happen.Minutes after the ship seizure was announced, Iranian state media reported on President Masoud Pezeshkian’s phone conversation with Pakistan’s prime minister, Shehbaz Sharif, earlier Sunday. US actions, including bullying and unreasonable behavior, have led to increased suspicion that the US will repeat previous patterns and “betray diplomacy,” the reports cited Pezeshkian as saying.Iran’s official IRNA state news agency, meanwhile, reported that Tehran had rejected new peace talks, citing ‌the ⁠ongoing blockade and Washington’s ⁠shifting positions and “excessive demands.”State broadcaster IRIB on Sunday cited Iranian sources as saying “there are currently no plans to participate in the next round of Iran-US talks.”The Fars and Tasnim news agencies had earlier cited anonymous sources as saying “the overall atmosphere cannot be assessed as very positive,” adding that lifting the US blockade was a precondition for negotiations.Interrupted talksTwo previous attempts at talks — last June and earlier this year — were interrupted by Israeli and US attacks.On another phone call, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told his Pakistani counterpart, Ishaq Dar, that recent US actions, rhetoric and contradictions were signs of “bad intentions and lack of seriousness in diplomacy,” Iran’s state broadcaster said.Pakistan did not confirm a second round of talks, but authorities had begun tightening security in Islamabad. A regional official involved in the efforts said mediators were finalizing preparations and US advance security teams were on the ground. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because they weren’t authorized to discuss preparations with the media.

King, Finland president hold talks at Al Husseiniya Palace

Sun, 19 Apr 2026 18:55:55 +0300

Jordan Daily - His Majesty King Abdullah II met on Sunday with Finland President Alexander Stubb at Al Husseiniya Palace to discuss ways of enhancing bilateral relations, as well as key developments in the region.

During the talks, attended by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II, His Majesty noted the longstanding relations between Jordan and Finland, which have steadily grown over more than 60 years, highlighting President Stubb’s visit to the Kingdom as an important opportunity to explore new areas of cooperation, particularly in education and technology.

For his part, the Finnish president expressed his gratitude to the King for the warm welcome, commending His Majesty’s wisdom and continuous efforts to achieve peace in the Middle East, and noting that he looked forward to hearing Jordan’s perspective on developments across the region.

Remarking on the similarity of the security challenges faced by both Finland and Jordan in their respective regions, the president highlighted the two countries’ shared pursuit of stability through solutions-oriented peace mediation.

During the talks, the King said Jordan’s strategic location and role in the region provide a solid foundation for partnership and dialogue with Finland and the European Union, emphasising the importance of stepping up joint international efforts to achieve peace in the region.

On regional developments, His Majesty stressed the importance of maintaining the ceasefire between the United States and Iran in order to end the war, and the need to follow up with further diplomatic measures that reduce tensions and strengthen stability.

The King also stressed that the ceasefire in Lebanon must put an end to Israel’s aggression, reiterating Jordan’s support for Lebanon’s efforts to preserve its sovereignty and security.

His Majesty called on the international community to stop Israel’s attempts to exploit the situation in the region as a pretext for imposing new facts on the ground in Jerusalem, Gaza, and the West Bank, noting that Israel’s actions undermine chances for peace and threaten to plunge the region into perpetual conflict.

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Maj. Gen. Yousef Huneiti, Director of the Office of His Majesty Alaa Batayneh, Minister of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship and Escort of Honour Sami Smeirat, non-resident Ambassador of Jordan to Finland Fayiz Khouri, and non-resident Ambassador of Finland to Jordan Anne Meskanen attended the talks.

MBA thesis highlights airline resilience in volatile markets

Sun, 19 Apr 2026 15:07:33 +0300

By : JDJordan Daily- Tamara Nidal Al-Masri has successfully defended her Master’s thesis as part of the International MBA at IAE Paris - Sorbonne Business School, examining how structurally constrained airlines build resilience amid persistent industry volatility.Her research, seen by Jordan Daily comes as the global aviation sector continues to grapple with rising uncertainty. Airlines face ongoing pressures from fluctuating fuel costs, uneven post-pandemic demand recovery, and geopolitical disruptions, all of which have kept profit margins thin- typically between 1% and 3%.Almasri’s study focuses on a subset of carriers described as “structurally constrained,” typically full-service airlines with limited fleet size, narrow route networks, and restricted access to capital. These airlines, often based in volatile regions, experience shocks more intensely than larger global competitors due to their concentrated revenue streams and reduced strategic flexibility.The research highlights how such constraints are particularly evident in the Middle East and neighboring regions, where airspace closures, diplomatic tensions, and sudden disruptions frequently force operational changes. These can include rerouting flights, extending travel times, and increasing fuel consumption- costs that smaller carriers struggle to absorb.Unlike major international airlines that can spread risk across extensive global networks, constrained carriers often depend heavily on a limited number of key routes. Disruptions to these routes can have significant financial consequences, underscoring their structural vulnerability.Masri’s findings suggest that resilience in this context is less about scale and more about strategic adaptability. Airlines must continuously reconfigure resources, adjust network strategies, and rely on organizational flexibility to sustain operations under ongoing uncertainty.Her work also points to a gap in existing research, which has largely focused on well-resourced carriers in stable markets. By contrast, structurally constrained airlines offer insight into how firms operate when managerial options are limited and volatility is persistent.The study concludes that these airlines’ survival depends on their ability to embed resilience into core strategy- leveraging intangible assets, adaptive decision-making, and dynamic capability development rather than relying on scale or financial strength.As industry conditions remain uncertain, the findings contribute to broader discussions on strategy under constraint, with implications extending beyond aviation to other sectors facing similar instability.

Malaysia's Petronas to negotiate oil purchases with Russia

Sun, 19 Apr 2026 10:39:32 +0300

Jordan Daily - Malaysia's national oil company, Petronas, is set to commence negotiations with Russia to purchase oil and secure the country's fuel supply, according to Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.Anwar Ibrahim highlighted that many European and American nations, previously imposing sanctions on Moscow, are now actively competing to buy Russian oil.Speaking to the Sinar Harian newspaper during the opening ceremony of the new Sultan Ismail Petra Airport station in Pengkalan Chepa, Anwar stated that Malaysia maintains a positive relationship with Russia, enabling Petronas to engage in negotiations.The Prime Minister revealed that early diplomatic efforts by the government ensured Malaysian oil tankers were among the first to navigate the strategic Strait of Hormuz, averting a potential energy supply crisis.Anwar elaborated on the geopolitical tensions between Iran, the United States, and Europe, which have directly impacted global maritime transport, oil prices, and fertilizer shipments.He expressed gratitude that a Petronas oil tanker safely reached the Pengerang Integrated Complex, emphasizing the shipment's necessity for refining operations conducted there.Anwar attributed this success to his government's early communication with the Iranian leadership, facilitating the tankers' passage during stalled international negotiations regarding navigation in the Strait.

Jordan, Syria deepen economic ties with new agreements, strategic push

Sun, 19 Apr 2026 07:15:17 +0300

Jordan Daily - Thaer Laham, managing director of the Syrian Business Council, said growing engagement between Jordan and Syria reflects a clear political will to elevate ties into a comprehensive strategic partnership, highlighting opportunities for private sector cooperation and economic integration.Laham said in press remarks, seen by Jordan Daily the latest steps mark a natural evolution of longstanding relations, opening the door for deeper economic complementarity based on shared interests, including leveraging geographic access to the Mediterranean and Red seas and expanding joint investment.His remarks came as King Abdullah II met a visiting Syrian ministerial delegation last Sunday, stressing the need to advance economic and trade cooperation to serve mutual interests.Jordan and Syria signed nine memorandums of understanding and an agreement during the second session of the Jordan-Syria Higher Coordination Council, covering sectors including media, social development, labour, health, higher education, tourism, justice and postal services.Jordan views economic cooperation with Syria as a long-term strategic track extending beyond trade to include joint investment and integrated development projects.The two countries had earlier agreed to establish and activate the coordination council to boost collaboration in key sectors such as trade, transport, energy and health.According to official figures, bilateral trade rose to JD334 million over the past year, compared with JD116 million in 2024.

Iran tightens Hormuz control, Trump warns against ‘blackmail’

Sun, 19 Apr 2026 06:38:35 +0300

Reuters - Iran said it was tightening control over the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday, warning mariners the vital energy route was again closed, but President Donald ‌Trump said ‌Tehran could not blackmail the United States ‌by ⁠shutting the waterway.Tehran ⁠said it was responding to a continued US blockade of Iranian ports, calling it a violation of their ceasefire, while Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei said Iran’s navy was ready to inflict “new bitter defeats” on its enemies.Shipping sources said at least two vessels reported coming under fire while trying to ⁠transit the waterway. In Mumbai, Tehran’s ‌ambassador ⁠to New Delhi, ⁠Mohammad Fathali, was called in for a meeting with India’s Foreign Secretary ⁠Vikram Misri during which ‌Misri ‌conveyed India’s deep ‌concern at the shooting ‌incident.Misri ‌urged the ambassador to convey ⁠India’s ⁠views to the authorities in Iran and resume at the earliest the process of facilitating India-bound ships across the Strait.Screenshot showing a translated statement of Iran Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf posted on his social media account. (X: @mb_ghalibaf)Tehran’s renewed tough messaging injected ‌fresh uncertainty around the Iran conflict, raising the risk that oil and gas shipments through the strait could remain disrupted just as Washington weighs whether to extend the fragile ceasefire.In Washington, Trump said ‌the US was having “very good conversations” with Iran but that Tehran wanted to close ⁠the strait again. ⁠Iran could not blackmail the US, he said.Maritime security and shipping sources said some merchant vessels received radio messages from Iran’s navy saying no ships were allowed through the waterway, reversing signs earlier on Saturday that traffic might resume.Iran says it is reviewing new US proposalsAlso on Saturday, Iran’s Supreme National Security Council said in a statement that Pakistan’s army chief, serving as an intermediary, presented the proposals to Iran when he recently visited Tehran, and they were still under review.It was not revealed what was in the proposals.The council said Iran has yet to respond, but further talks would require the US to abandon “excessive demands and adjust its requests to the realities on the ground.”It also said that Iran will maintain full control over traffic through the Strait of Hormuz until “the war fully ends and lasting peace is achieved in the region,” adding that it would collect detailed information on passing vessels, issue transit certificates and impose tolls.There was no confirmation from Washington regarding the new proposals.

SSIF expands portfolio with strategic entry into rail transport

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 11:38:57 +0300

By : Business EditorJordan Daily - The Chief Executive Officer of Social Security Investment Fund (SSIF), Dr. Ezzeddin Kanakrieh, said the fund’s participation in the Aqaba Railway project reflects a long-term, institutional strategy targeting high-value national infrastructure investments.Speaking on a televised interview, Kanakrieh said the investment follows a dual-track approach: a direct 7% stake in the railway project company, and indirect exposure through SSIF’s holdings in Jordan Phosphate Mines Company (about 17%) and Arab Potash Company (around 10%).He added the partnership demonstrates the fund’s ability to build effective local and regional alliances, boosting confidence in Jordan’s economy and its investment climate.The Aqaba Railway marks SSIF’s first rail-sector investment and aligns with the government’s push to accelerate major projects under its economic modernization agenda, with 2026 declared the “year of projects.”Kanakrieh said SSIF plans to expand into other rail-related developments and strategic projects, including the national water carrier, the Risha gas pipeline and a phosphoric acid plant.He added the investment will enhance efficiency in key sectors, stimulate economic activity and generate jobs, thereby strengthening the social security system’s sustainability.The Aqaba Port Railway project company is jointly owned by Jordanian entities - including Jordan Phosphate Mines (30%), the
Government Investments Management Company GIMC, (8%), SSIF (7%) and Arab Potash (5%) - alongside Abu Dhabi-based L’IMAD Holding .

Trump says Iran ceasefire may end if no deal reached by Wednesday

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 11:07:54 +0300

Reuters - US President Donald Trump said on Friday that he may end the ceasefire with Iran unless ‌a long-term ‌deal to ‌end ⁠the war is agreed ⁠by Wednesday.“Maybe I won’t extend it, but the ⁠blockade (on Iranian ports) ‌is ‌going to ‌remain,” Trump ‌told reporters on Air Force One on his ‌way back to Washington from Phoenix, ⁠Arizona. “So ⁠you have a blockade, and unfortunately we have to start dropping bombs again.”But he also told reporters accompanying him aboard Air Force One to Washington that, “I think it’s going to happen,” referring to a deal.“We had some ‌pretty good ‌news 20 ‌minutes ⁠ago, but it ⁠seems to be going very well in the Middle East with Iran,” Trump ⁠told reporters.“You’ll hear ‌about. I just ‌think it’s something that should happen. It’s something that only ‌makes sense to happen. And I think ⁠it ⁠will. We’ll see what happens, but I think it will,” Trump said when asked what the good news was.Trump also told AFP there were “no sticking points” left for a peace deal with Iran, adding that an agreement was “very close”.“We’re very close to having a deal,” Trump said in a brief telephone interview. Asked what unresolved issues were left, Trump said: “No sticking points.”

Finnish President Stubb to start a visit to Jordan focused on regional tensions

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 07:57:11 +0300

News EditorJordan Daily - Finland President Alexander Stubb is set to begin an official visit to Jordan on Saturday, where he will hold talks with King Abdullah II aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and addressing regional and global developments.According to the Finnish presidency, Stubb will visit Jordan on April 19–20. On Sunday, he is scheduled to meet King Abdullah II and Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II in Amman.Discussions are expected to focus on tensions in Iran, the security of the Strait of Hormuz, and broader Middle East developments. The leaders will also review cooperation between Jordan and Finland, and other global challenges.During his visit, Stubb will deliver a lecture at the University of Jordan on global transitions and shifting power dynamics, followed by a question-and-answer session with students.On Monday, the Finnish president will meet Jordanian officials including Prime Minister Jafar Hassan, Senate President Faisal al-Fayez, and House Speaker Mazen al-Qadi.Stubb is also expected to visit a base of the Jordan Armed Forces alongside King Abdullah.He will be accompanied by lawmaker and Fin Chair of Political Parties of Finland for Democracy Pihla Keto-Huovinennish.The visit marks the first by a Finnish president to Jordan since Tarja Halonen traveled to the kingdom in 2010.

Trump's Lebanon ceasefire takes Israel by surprise

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 07:21:25 +0300

BBC- As news of the ceasefire spread through Israel's northern communities, sirens blared three times this evening warning of incoming rockets from Lebanon.In the sky above the northern city of Nahariya, Israel's air defence interceptors shot up to block them, triggering loud explosions. Ambulance crews said at least three people were wounded by shrapnel in the hours before the ceasefire took effect, including two seriously.On the ground here – and across the country – there's scepticism about why Israel's leader has signed up to the truce."I feel like the government lied to us," said Gal, a student in Nahariya. "They promised that this time it would end differently, but it seems like we're once again heading toward a ceasefire agreement that solves nothing.""We gave the Lebanese government a chance and they failed to uphold the agreement; they didn't disarm Hezbollah," said Maor, a 32-year-old truck driver whose house was hit by a rocket last year."If we don't do it, no one will. It's a shame they stopped. It seemed like there were significant achievements this time."Israel and Lebanon agree 10-day ceasefire, Trump saysIsrael has five army divisions in southern Lebanon, and only yesterday its chief army spokesman said they would continue advancing.This ceasefire announcement has taken Israel by surprise – reportedly even within the government's own security cabinet.A widely respected Israeli news outlet tonight described Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convening a security cabinet meeting with just five minutes notice, shortly before the ceasefire announcement was made.Leaks from that meeting say ministers were not given a vote on the ceasefire.To many, this is another example of Netanyahu bowing to US President Donald Trump's demands to halt fighting, even when the terms or the timing are not what Israel wants.Vehicles crowded roads in Lebanon after the ceasefire came into effect as people returned to their homes
"A ceasefire must come from a position of strength in order to service the national interests of Israel," said the former IDF Chief of staff and Yashar party chief, Gadi Eisenkot.“A pattern has developed in which ceasefires are imposed upon us – in Gaza, in Iran, and now in Lebanon. Netanyahu does not know how to convert military achievements into diplomatic gains.”

Hikma Pharmaceuticals donates $1 mln in emergency medicines to Lebanon

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 19:00:19 +0300

By: News EditorJordan Daily - Jordan-based pharmaceutical company Hikma Pharmaceuticals said on Thursday it had donated an emergency shipment of medicines worth $1 million to support people in Lebanon affected by the ongoing crisis.The shipment was transported aboard a Royal Jordanian Air Force aid aircraft in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, the Jordan Hashemite Charity Organization, and the Jordan Armed Forces, the company said in a statement.Hikma said the donation forms part of its broader efforts to support humanitarian response initiatives across the region. The consignment includes a range of essential medicines, such as anti-infectives, pain relief treatments, and other therapies covering multiple medical needs, including oral medications and hospital-use drugs.Lebanon is currently facing a severe shortage of medicines and medical supplies amid its prolonged economic and healthcare crisis.The company said the initiative reflects its mission to provide “better health, within reach, every day,” and underscores its continued commitment to supporting communities affected by crises worldwide.

JPMC Chairman Thneibat says Aqaba Railway project to create 5,000 jobs in southern Jordan

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 18:47:25 +0300

By : Business EditorJordan Daily - Jordan signed on Wednesday agreements with the United Arab Emirates to launch a major railway project linking phosphate and potash production sites to the port of Aqaba, in a move aimed at cutting transport costs and boosting competitiveness.Chairman of the Jordan Phosphate Mines Company (JPMC), Dr. Mohammad Thneibat, said the Aqaba railway project is among the largest infrastructure developments undertaken in the kingdom in recent years, adding that the railway is expected to reduce annual transport costs for phosphate and potash by around $40 million.The savings are expected to enhance the global competitiveness of Jordanian mining exports, while the project will also create approximately 5,000 jobs in the country’s southern regions, Thneibat noted.The railway will be integrated with the planned Ma’an dry port project, forming part of a broader logistics network connecting production areas to export hubs.He added the Jordanian-Emirati partnership will establish a railway company to operate routes linking the Shidiya phosphate mines, potash production facilities, and the port of Aqaba.The company will have a capital of $2.3 billion and will be registered with the Ministry of Industry and Trade. The railway is expected to transport about 16 million tonnes annually, including roughly 13 million tonnes of phosphate from Shidiya to Aqaba and about 3 million tonnes of potash to the port, the Chairman pointed out.Thneibat said the project would not negatively impact trucking operations in southern Jordan, noting that trucks would continue to play a key role in transporting goods between Aqaba and Amman, as well as serving other routes.Jordan and the UAE signed the agreements on Wednesday as part of a joint investment initiative, marking one of the kingdom’s largest transport projects in the past 25 years.The project aims to strengthen Jordan’s position as a regional transport and logistics hub by improving supply chain efficiency, facilitating cargo movement, and reducing overall transportation costs.

King attends Jordan Flag Day ceremony

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 14:20:56 +0300

Jordan Daily - His Majesty King Abdullah II on Thursday attended the flag raising ceremony at Al Husseiniya Palace on the occasion of Jordan’s National Flag Day, which falls on 16 April each year.

Upon arrival, His Majesty was received by members of the Royal family, in the presence of heads of authorities, and senior officials and officers.

The King was presented with the Jordanian flag by Royal Hashemite Court Chief Yousef Issawi. His Majesty then handed the flag to an officer from the Jordan Armed Forces-Arab Army, who marched toward the flagpole to raise the flag.

National Flag Day, which was approved by the Council of Ministers as part of Jordan’s centennial celebrations, aims to showcase Jordanians’ pride in their country, symbolised by the flag, which is testament to the sacrifices of Jordanians in the march towards progress and prosperity.

The Flag of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, in its current form, was endorsed in 1922. It was officially adopted in 1928 with the enactment of the Basic Law of the Emirate of Transjordan. Its shape and colours are inspired by the banner of the Great Arab Revolt, and it includes references to the banners of Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, the Umayyad state, the Fatimid state, and the Hashemites. The heptagram at the centre of the chevron symbolises the seven verses of Surat Al Fatiha, the opening chapter of the Holy Quran.

US optimistic of deal with Iran as it increases economic pressure

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 06:22:08 +0300

Reuters - The Trump administration expressed optimism on Wednesday about reaching a deal to end the war with Iran, while also warning of increasing economic pressure against Tehran if it remains defiant.President Donald Trump has said he believes the war he launched with Israel in late February is nearly over, even as a shipping blockade he announced came into effect and traffic through the Strait of Hormuz remained well below ‌normal levels.The U.S. warned it could add secondary sanctions on buyers of Iranian oil in an apparent effort to gain leverage ahead of more negotiations, just weeks after Washington loosened the enforcement of some Iran energy sanctions.U.S. and Iranian officials were weighing a return to Pakistan for further talks as early as the coming weekend, after negotiations ended on Sunday without a breakthrough. Mediator Pakistan's army chief arrived in Tehran on Wednesday to try to prevent a renewal of the conflict.
"We feel good about the prospects of a deal," White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said at a news conference, calling conversations mediated by Pakistan "productive and ongoing." She denied reports that the U.S. had formally requested an extension of a two-week ceasefire agreed by the two sides on April 8.More in-person talks had not yet been confirmed but would likely take place in Pakistan again, Leavitt said.
Pakistan's military confirmed Field Marshal Asim Munir had arrived in Tehran. A senior Iranian source told Reuters that Munir, who had mediated the ⁠last round of talks, would seek "to narrow gaps" between the two sides. Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi posted on X welcoming Munir and said Iran was committed to "promoting peace and stability in the region."

Safadi meets German counterpart, focuses on regional stability

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 06:13:43 +0300

Jordan Daily - Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi held talks in Berlin on Wednesday with German Foreign Minister Johann David Wadephul, focusing on strengthening bilateral ties and addressing regional tensions.The discussions covered efforts to restore calm following a U.S.-Iran ceasefire and recent negotiations in Islamabad, according to the Foreign Ministry statement. Safadi stressed the need for a comprehensive approach grounded in international law, respect for sovereignty, and freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.Both sides addressed the deteriorating situation in Lebanon, emphasizing support for ceasefire efforts and U.S.-facilitated talks between Lebanon and Israel. Safadi called for increased humanitarian aid for over one million displaced people and urged support for Lebanon’s state institutions.On Gaza, Safadi highlighted the urgency of stabilisation, full implementation of the U.S. plan, and ensuring sustained humanitarian access. He also warned against Israeli actions undermining a two-state solution, including settlement expansion and restrictions in Jerusalem.The ministers discussed Syria, stressing the need for stability, reconstruction, and continued support for refugees, alongside facilitating voluntary returns.Safadi and Wadephul reaffirmed strong Jordanian-German ties and explored cooperation in water, investment, education, and vocational training, including through EU frameworks.

Saudi PIF unveils new strategy focused on sustainable growth

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 06:32:45 +0300

Jordan Daily - Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) has approved a new strategy for the coming years. The plan aims to shift the fund's focus from rapid expansion to sustainable value and maximizing economic impact.Chaired by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who also serves as Prime Minister and Chairman of the PIF, the fund's board of directors approved the strategy.The new strategy is built upon three main portfolios. The first, the "Vision Portfolio," will concentrate on developing economic ecosystems. These include tourism, industry, renewable energy, urban development, and the NEOM project.The "Strategic Investments Portfolio" will focus on maximizing asset returns and supporting the transformation of PIF companies into leading global entities.Finally, the "Financial Investments Portfolio" is designed to generate sustainable returns and diversify investments globally.

Jordan, UAE launch $2.3 bln Aqaba Railway project to boost mining exports

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 19:20:14 +0300

Jordan Daily - Prime Minister Jafar Hassan and UAE Vice President Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan on Wednesday witnessed the signing of agreements to launch the Aqaba Port Railway project, a $2.3 billion joint investment aimed at boosting the kingdom’s transport and mining sectors.The project will be implemented through a newly established Jordanian-Emirati company, jointly owned on a 50-50 basis. Jordan’s side includes state-linked entities such as the Jordan Phosphate Mines Company, Arab Potash Company, the Government Investments Management Company, and the Social Security Investment Fund, while the UAE is represented by L’Imad Holding, an Abu Dhabi sovereign investment platform.The 360-km railway will connect phosphate and potash mines in Sheidiya and Ghor Al Safi to the Port of Aqaba, with an annual capacity of around 16 million tonnes of minerals. The network will significantly reduce transport costs, improve supply chain efficiency, and enhance export competitiveness.The project, the largest infrastructure initiative in Jordan’s history, includes tracks, tunnels and bridges built to international standards. It is also expected to form the backbone of a future national railway network linking Aqaba with neighboring countries and Mediterranean ports.The railway would strengthen Aqaba’s position as a regional logistics hub and drive development in southern regions. Plans are also under study to extend links to the Ma’an Development Area and establish a new land port.Financial close is targeted for early 2027, with construction expected to take five years. The project is also set to generate jobs across transport, mining and logistics sectors.The agreements build on a broader $5.5 billion Jordan-UAE investment framework signed in 2023 in the presence of King Abdullah II and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

Public sector holiday announced for Labour Day

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 15:16:14 +0300

Jordan Daily- Prime Minister Jafar Hassan on Wednesday issued an official directive announcing a public holiday on Thursday, April 30, in observance of Labour Day, which falls annually on May 1.The holiday will apply to ministries, government departments, public institutions and authorities, in addition to public universities, municipalities, joint services councils and the Greater Amman Municipality, as well as companies wholly owned by the government.

Israel and Lebanon hold first direct talks since 1993

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 06:50:58 +0300

BBC- Lebanon and Israel have held their first diplomatic talks in over three decades, a rare encounter aimed at ending fighting between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah group.US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who mediated, said it was a "historic opportunity" to end Hezbollah's influence.A US statement said the two sides had agreed to launch direct negotiations, at a time and place to be determined. Israel said it wanted to disarm all non-state terror groups - a reference to Hezbollah.Lebanon called for a ceasefire and measures to address its humanitarian crisis. The two countries do not have diplomatic relations, and the last direct, high-level talks between them took place in 1993.Over 2,000 people have been killed since Israeli military operations in Lebanon began on 2 March, just days after US and Israeli strikes began in Iran.While the two sides were meeting in Washington on Tuesday, Hezbollah claimed at least 24 attacks on Israel and Israeli troops in Lebanon.Drone and rocket alarms sounded in communities across northern Israel for much of the day.Israel has said its operations in Lebanon are aimed at disarming and dismantling the group, which it also fought in 2023 and 2024 as the war in Gaza raged.A spokesman for the US state department, Tommy Pigott, said in a statement after the talks that both Israel and Lebanon had agreed to work towards reducing the influence of Hezbollah.The Lebanese side also called for a "ceasefire and concrete measures to address and alleviate the severe humanitarian crisis" in the country, he added.Meanwhile, the US "expressed its support for Israel's right to defend itself" from Hezbollah's attacks, he said.Speaking to reporters ahead of the meeting, Rubio said the meeting was "a process"."This will take time, but we believe it is worth this endeavour," he said. "It's a historic gathering that we hope to build on."In a statement, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said he hoped the talks would "mark the beginning of the end of the suffering of the Lebanese people in general, and those in the south in particular".He said the "only solution" to the conflict would be in the Lebanese armed forces "being solely responsible for the security of the area".The Lebanese government's capacity to confront Hezbollah, however, is limited.Ahead of the talks, a senior member of the organisation told the AP news agency it would not abide by any settlement agreed in Washington."We are not bound by what they agreed to," said Wafiq Safa, a member of Hezbollah's political council.Hezbollah, a well-armed and sophisticated militia group that was founded in 1982, holds enormous sway in Lebanon's predominantly Shia south as well as in the southern suburbs of its capital, Beirut.Politicians affiliated with the group also hold two cabinet-level positions with the government.Their relationship with Lebanon's central government has become increasingly strained since the group moved to enter the war between Israel and Iran, its main benefactor.In separate talks held between the US and Iran in Pakistan, Iranian negotiators insisted that Lebanon be included in any ceasefire - although both the US and Israel said it would not.A US state department official told the BBC that the Israel-Lebanon talks were planned a month ago, before the talks with Iran in Islamabad were confirmed.In addition to the more than 2,000 people killed, about a million people have been displaced in the conflict since the most recent hostilities began.