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Netanyahu says deal with Lebanon ‘historic’ for Israel

Sun, 28 Jun 2026 07:12:54 +0300

AFP- Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday hailed the US-brokered agreement with Lebanon, calling it a historic achievement that dealt a blow to arch-foes Iran and Hezbollah.“Yesterday ... we achieved a historic deal for the state of Israel after direct negotiations between Israel and Lebanon,” Netanyahu said in a televised briefing.“This is a blow to Iran and Hezbollah.”Netanyahu reiterated that Israeli forces would remain in the so-called security zone established by the military some 10 kilometers (six miles) inside the Lebanese territory.“We will remain in the area until Hezbollah and the rest of the terror groups are disarmed,” he added.Far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir denounced the agreement saying the Lebanese government could not be trusted to disarm Hezbollah.“The agreement with Lebanon is a big mistake... Indeed, we are staying in most of the territory for now, but the state of Lebanon will not disarm Hezbollah,” he said on his Telegram channel.The Israeli prime minister said: “Both the United States and Lebanon have recognized Israel’s right to maintain a security zone inside Lebanon for as long as it remains necessary to safeguard our security.“We will continue to hold this security zone until Hezbollah and all other terrorist organizations are fully disarmed and no longer pose any threat to Israel from Lebanese territory.”Ben Gvir added: “Members of the Lebanese government are Hezbollah ministers, and Lebanon cannot be trusted to take Hezbollah’s weapons ... Only IDF soldiers will destroy Hezbollah, no other party will do it for us.”

Jordan showcases Christian pilgrimage sites at Texas event

Sat, 27 Jun 2026 13:46:42 +0300

Jordan Daily- Jordan showcased its Christian heritage and promoted religious tourism at an event in Arlington, Texas, on Thursday as part of efforts to attract international visitors during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.The event, titled "The Christian Faith in Jordan: A Land of Revelation, Baptism, and Pilgrimage," was organized by the Jordan Tourism Board in partnership with First Baptist Christian Church Arlington. It brought together church leaders, biblical scholars, members of the Jordanian-American community and other guests to highlight Jordan's significance in Christian history.The program opened with a photo exhibition featuring Jordan's biblical and Christian heritage, followed by the Jordanian national anthem, musical performances and welcoming remarks from the Rev. Dr. Dennis Wiles and Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Emad Hejazeen.Dr. Sarah Wenner, executive director of the Jerusalem Center for Biblical Studies, delivered the keynote address, followed by a question-and-answer session. Presentations by Dr. Imed Dabbour and Abby Skeans focused on Jordan's Christian pilgrimage routes and the historical importance of the country's sacred sites.In his remarks, Hejazeen highlighted Bethany Beyond the Jordan, the UNESCO World Heritage site recognized by many Christians as the baptism site of Jesus Christ. He also pointed to Mount Nebo, associated with the Prophet Moses, the legacy of the Prophet Elijah, and Petra's connection to Saint Paul's early spiritual journey.Hejazeen said Jordan remained committed to promoting religious coexistence and interfaith dialogue under the leadership of King Abdullah II, whose government continues to support the preservation of Christian and Islamic holy sites while positioning the country as a leading destination for faith-based tourism.The event concluded with closing remarks by Wiles.The gathering formed part of Jordan's tourism promotion campaign linked to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, aimed at introducing international audiences to the kingdom's religious, cultural and historical attractions.

Sliven hosts Bulgaria- Iraq forum to deepen business and academic ties

Sat, 27 Jun 2026 09:44:34 +0300

By: JD Correspondent Anastas TerzobalievJordan Daily - SLIVEN, Bulgaria - Officials, business leaders and academics gathered in the Bulgarian city of Sliven on Wednesday for an international forum aimed at strengthening diplomatic, economic and academic cooperation between Bulgaria and Iraq.The event was attended by Dr. Haider Al Burahi, Chargé d’Affaires ad interim of the Iraqi Embassy in Bulgaria, who participated as the forum's special guest. It was supported by Sliven Regional Governor Mihail Kasherov and Eng. Mincho Afuzov, alongside local officials including Deputy Mayor Stoyan Markov, Sliven Garrison Commander Col. Hristo Aleksandrov, and the chairman of the municipal council.Participants discussed opportunities to expand bilateral cooperation and reviewed a strategic investment project focused on the development of Sliven, highlighting prospects for international business partnerships and academic collaboration.Representatives of the Technical University–Sliven and members of the local business community received official invitations from the Iraqi Embassy to visit Iraq to explore partnerships, negotiate cooperation agreements and strengthen educational and commercial exchanges.Entrepreneur and Middle East affairs expert Anastas Terzobaliev, who also serves as an ambassador of the Academy of Culture and Diplomacy in Italy, played a key role in coordinating the forum.Organizers said the initiative is expected to support long-term cooperation between Bulgaria and Iraq by encouraging investment, facilitating knowledge and technology transfer, and expanding opportunities for Bulgarian companies in the Iraqi market while strengthening institutional and diplomatic ties between the two countries.

Hezbollah supporters take to streets of Beirut to protest Israel deal

Sat, 27 Jun 2026 06:05:40 +0300

AFP- Hezbollah supporters took to the streets of Beirut late Friday to protest an agreement between Israel and Lebanon, as a lawmaker from the Iran-backed group warned enforcing the deal risked sparking civil war.The state-run National News Agency (NNA) reported that “Hezbollah supporters rode motorbikes through the streets of Beirut” including central areas and along a road leading to the airport “in protest at the framework agreement announced between Lebanon and Israel.”An AFP correspondent saw people riding motorbikes and chanting slogans along one road, as well as Lebanese army temporary checkpoints set up along several streets of the capital.Lebanese “authorities will be unable to impose the implementation of the agreement signed in Washington unless they go, with American support, to civil war,” said Hezbollah lawmaker Hassan Fadlallah, whose party has long rejected the direct Israel-Lebanon talks.Hezbollah would confront any measure taken ‌by Lebanese authorities and would hold ⁠on ⁠to its weapons even more, adding that group’s opposition was “serious” and would not allow authorities to implement their commitments on the ground.He added that “what happened in Washington is an attempt to disrupt the Islamabad path, and without the resistance (Hezbollah) nothing will pass,” referring to the initial agreement between the US and Iran on halting the Middle East war, which includes Lebanon.Footage circulating on local outlets and social media showed hundreds of Hezbollah supporters on motorbikes and mopeds roaming Beirut’s southern suburbs, the group’s stronghold, before they headed to the heart of the capital.Some had gathered near the seat of the government and blocked a main road nearby, while other footage showed soldiers chasing away Hezbollah supporters who blocked the main road leading to the airport with burning tires, before the army reopened it.The NNA had said protesters blocked at least one major road with burning tires.

U.S. ambassador visits Jordan Bromine Company, highlighting bilateral economic ties

Sat, 27 Jun 2026 07:30:15 +0300

By: Business EditorJordan Daily - The U.S. ambassador to Jordan James Holtsnider visited Jordan Bromine Company (JBC), highlighting the strength of the economic partnership between Jordan and the United States and confidence in one of the kingdom's largest U.S. investments, the company's general manager said.Holtsnider visited JBC, a joint venture between Jordan's Arab Potash Company and U.S.-based Albemarle Corp., where he met company officials and toured the facility."It was a great honor to welcome U.S. Ambassador Jim Holtsnider to Jordan Bromine Company, the strategic joint venture between Albemarle and Arab Potash Company, and one of the most important U.S. investments in Jordan," JBC General Manager Samer Asfour said in a statement seen by Jordan Daily."The Ambassador's visit reflects the strength and depth of the longstanding partnership between Jordan and the United States, as well as the confidence placed in JBC as a world-class industrial enterprise contributing to economic growth, investment and innovation," Asfour said."We are sincerely grateful for the Ambassador's visit and his continued support for strengthening the economic partnership between our two countries," Asfour said. "His presence reinforces the importance of fostering international collaboration, encouraging investment, and recognizing the role that strategic industries play in advancing sustainable economic development.""As a global leader in the bromine industry, we look forward to further strengthening the enduring partnership between Jordan and the United States," he added.In January, 2025 Arab Potash and Albemarle signed a JOD 576 million ($813 million) agreement to expand bromine production capacity at JBC, one of the largest U.S.-linked investments in Jordan's mining sector. The expansion is expected to increase the company's production capacity and reinforce Jordan's position as a major global supplier of bromine products.

Iran’s Ghalibaf rejects US claim that unfrozen assets will be spent on US goods

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 08:16:36 +0300

Reuters - Iran’s top negotiator Mohammad Baqer Ghalibaf said on Thursday that the United States’ claims that Iran will spend its unfrozen ‌assets to ‌buy US agricultural ‌products ⁠were false.

“The US ⁠only exports GMO soybeans, broken promises and trash talks,” Ghalibaf said ⁠in a ‌post ‌on X.US Treasury ‌Secretary Scott ‌Bessent echoed President Donald Trump on Wednesday and insisted ‌that a large percentage of Iran’s unfrozen ⁠assets ⁠would be used to buy US foods and medicine even as Iran says it would determine its spending.

Japanese Ambassador highlights Jordan’s role as an anchor of stability

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 16:02:51 +0300

Jordan Daily - Japan’s Ambassador to Jordan, Mr. Asari Hideki, reaffirmed that peace and stability in the Middle East are of direct importance to Japan, given the close links between regional security, global supply chains, energy security, and freedom of navigation. He stressed the importance of ensuring safe and free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and expressed Japan’s hope that stability would be restored through the steady implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding by all parties concerned.The remarks were delivered during a lecture entitled “Japan’s Diplomacy: Challenges, Opportunities and Responses,” organized by the Center for Strategic Studies at the University of Jordan. The event was attended by researchers, academics, and political and economic experts. Ambassador Asari discussed the Middle East's significance in Japan's foreign policy, the region's current challenges, Japan's diplomatic responses, and the strategic partnership between Japan and Jordan.Addressing the Palestinian issue, he reaffirmed Japan's support for efforts to end the conflict in Gaza, establish effective governance, and advance Palestinian state-building. He also stressed the importance of halting unilateral measures in the West Bank, supporting the Palestinian Authority, and pursuing a two-State solution.Since 1993, Japan has provided approximately USD 2.6 billion in assistance to Palestine, including USD 410 million since October 2023. Ambassador Asari highlighted Japan's long-term development initiatives, including the Corridor for Peace and Prosperity, the Jericho Agro-Industrial Park, and the Conference on Cooperation among East Asian Countries for Palestinian Development (CEAPAD).The Ambassador described Jordan as "an anchor of stability" in the Middle East, citing its resilience and active diplomacy under the leadership of His Majesty King Abdullah II. He praised Jordan's role in hosting refugees, facilitating the evacuation of foreign nationals from neighboring countries, and serving as a regional humanitarian hub for Gaza, Syria, Lebanon, and other crisis-affected areas.He reaffirmed Japan's commitment to supporting Jordan's resilience and regional role. Since 1974, Japan has extended approximately USD 4.335 billion in Official Development Assistance (ODA) to Jordan. In addition, Japan provided USD 12.5 million in humanitarian assistance in FY2025 through six UN agencies, including UNRWA.Ambassador Asari also addressed broader global challenges, including increasing pressure on the rule-based international order, climate change, nuclear non-proliferation, economic security, and the rapid advancement of science and technology. He emphasized Japan's efforts to uphold the rule of law, strengthen cooperation with the United States and other like-minded partners, and reinforce global governance.He further elaborated Japan's Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) initiative, highlighting its role in promoting regional connectivity, economic growth, and international cooperation. He noted that FOIP is also highly relevant to the Middle East and that Japan sees Jordan not only as a pillar of regional stability but also as a potential hub connecting the Indo-Pacific, the Middle East, and Europe.Participants concluded that the rapidly evolving regional and international environment underscores the importance of further strengthening the Jordan–Japan strategic partnership and expanding cooperation in regional stability, development, human security, and economic connectivity.

Jordan's digital banking ambitions

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 15:17:34 +0300

By Faris Al HadidiEconomist and bankerJordan Daily- The banking industry is experiencing a great transformation. Digital technologies, artificial intelligence, data analytics, and cloud computing are reshaping how financial services are delivered and how customers interact with their banks. What was once considered a competitive advantage has quickly become a necessity.Jordan has welcomed this transformation. Over the past few years, banks have invested heavily in digital channels, regulators have introduced important reforms, and customers have become increasingly comfortable conducting financial transactions online. Digital payments, mobile banking, and electronic financial services have become an integral part of everyday life for many Jordanians.As a result, an important question arises: Can Jordan become a regional hub for digital banking and financial innovation?Jordan certainly has several advantages working in its favor. The country's banking sector is among the most developed and resilient in the region. It enjoys a strong regulatory framework, a modern payments infrastructure, and a reputation for stability. These strengths have helped the sector navigate numerous economic and geopolitical challenges while maintaining public confidence.Jordan's greatest asset, however, may be its human capital. For decades, Jordanian professionals have played leading roles in banks, technology companies, and financial institutions across the region. The country has developed a reputation for producing highly skilled talent in banking, finance, engineering, and information technology. In an industry increasingly driven by knowledge and innovation, this represents a significant advantage.Becoming a regional digital banking hub requires more than strong resilient banking backbone. The experience of successful financial centers around the world demonstrates that innovation succeeds within a broader ecosystem, one that brings together regulators, financial institutions, technology companies, investors, universities, and entrepreneurs.Jordan has made significant progress in adopting digital technologies, but adoption alone is not enough. The countries leading the future of finance are not simply using technology to improve existing services; they are creating new business models, developing innovative financial solutions, and exporting them to other markets. They are building ecosystems that attract investment, encourage startups, and transform ideas into scalable businesses.Jordan has a way to reached that stage. Much of the current work efforts are digitizing traditional banking services and improving customer experience. Though these are important achievements, the next phase requires moving beyond and transition into genuine innovation.The opportunity, however, is real. Across the Middle East, financial sectors are modernizing rapidly. Demand for digital payments, cybersecurity solutions, fintech services, and advanced banking technologies is growing. Jordan is well positioned to participate in this growth, mainly given its experienced workforce and established banking sector.Several obstacles must still be addressed. The domestic market is relatively small, making regional expansion essential for long-term success. Access to capital and growth financing remains more limited than in competing regional centers. At the same time, retaining highly skilled technology professionals is becoming increasingly difficult as regional and global competition for talent rises more and more.Cybersecurity is another critical issue. Trust remains the foundation of banking. As institutions become more digital, protecting customer data and ensuring operational resilience become just as important as financial strength and profitability.Ultimately, the question is not whether digital banking will continue to expand in Jordan. That trend is already well established. The more important question is whether Jordan can move beyond being a consumer of financial technology and become a producer of it.The fundamentals are certainly in place: a strong banking sector, supportive regulation, modern infrastructure, and a highly skilled workforce. Turning these strengths into a sustainable regional advantage, however, will require continued investment, stronger collaboration between the public and private sectors, and a greater focus on innovation and entrepreneurship.Jordan's digital banking ambitions are therefore neither unrealistic nor guaranteed. They represent a genuine opportunity. Whether that opportunity becomes reality will depend on our ability to create an environment where innovation can expand and where Jordanian financial solutions can compete successfully beyond our borders.The future of Jordanian banking will not be defined by how many services become digital. It will be defined by whether Jordan can become a source of financial innovation for the region.

Crown Prince meets with CEOs of leading technology companies in Silicon Valley

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 20:22:19 +0300

Jordan Daily - His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II met on Tuesday with leaders of pioneering organisations in advanced technology fields, during a visit to Silicon Valley, California.During a meeting with Sam Chaudhary, founder and CEO of ClassDojo, a leading platform in educational technology and school communication, the Crown Prince discussed opportunities for the exchange of expertise and cooperation between ClassDojo and the ‘Siraj’ project an educational support platform in Jordan as well as the potential for developing the platform’s tools for vocational and technical education and training programmes.His Royal Highness also held a meeting, organised by Rainmaker CEO Augustus Doricko, with the founders and CEOs of several technology companies specialising in a range of fields.The meeting explored ways of strengthening cooperation in the areas of productive solutions and creative artificial intelligence, the development of autonomous logistics cargo aircraft, robotics technology for drilling and mining, and unmanned aerial vehicle systems.The meetings were attended by Minister of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship Sami Smeirat, Jordan’s Ambassador to the United States Dina Kawar, and Director of the Office of the Crown Prince Zaid Baqain.The Crown Prince also held a meeting with Jordanian-American technology investor Isam Qubain, during which His Royal Highness commended Qubain’s achievements in Silicon Valley, as well as his initiatives to advance sustainable development in Jordan’s humanitarian and scientific fields.

Ireland, Jordan deepen ties amid regional turmoil, ambassador says

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 16:53:44 +0300

By: Nedal ZubeidiJordan Daily - Ireland and Jordan have strengthened their bilateral relationship through growing cooperation in education, trade, innovation and humanitarian efforts despite mounting regional and global challenges, Ireland's Ambassador to Jordan Marianne Bolger said on Tuesday.Speaking at a reception marking Ireland's National Day in Amman, Bolger said the relationship between the two countries was "built not only on shared interests, but also on shared values."Reflecting on her nearly four years in Jordan, she highlighted expanding educational cooperation, including a growing number of Jordanian students choosing Ireland for higher education and embassy-supported initiatives in science, technology, climate action, peacebuilding and filmmaking.At the centre of those efforts is the Jordan Young Scientists (JOYS) programme, founded by the Irish Embassy and inspired by Ireland's Young Scientist tradition."Each June, I marvel at young Jordanian innovators embracing science, research and creativity with such enthusiasm," Bolger said. "This has been a powerful reminder for me that the strongest partnerships are those that invest in future generations."She noted that more than 700 students from across Jordan will participate in this year's JOYS exhibition at Hussein Technical University on June 27.Bolger also pointed to expanding economic ties, saying that "trade missions, business exchanges and growing commercial and innovation linkages" were creating stronger engagement between Irish and Jordanian companies."What began as conversations has increasingly translated into partnerships, investments, signed contracts and opportunities that benefit both countries," she said.Turning to regional developments, Bolger said the Middle East continued to face "profound challenges," including conflict, displacement, humanitarian crises and economic pressures.Despite these difficulties, she said, "we must maintain what we call in Ireland a duty of hope that the coming years will bring greater levels of stability, security and opportunity to the peoples of the region."She praised Jordan's role as "a force for stability, moderation and constructive engagement" and described King Abdullah II as "a shining example as a global humanitarian."Bolger welcomed Jordan's hosting of a high-level conference on Humanity in War later this year, saying it would be "a crucial opportunity to galvanise political commitment to International Humanitarian Law."The ambassador said Ireland and Jordan had worked closely on regional issues, particularly in support of “a just and lasting peace based on a two-State solution, with Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace, security and dignity.”Bolger said Ireland's recognition of the State of Palestine in 2024 underscored its support for Palestinian statehood and peace efforts. She also praised Jordan's continued role in supporting refugees and facilitating humanitarian access to Gaza, where "humanitarian needs remain critical."According to Bolger, Ireland's support to the region over the past 15 years has exceeded €450 million.Looking ahead, she said Ireland's presidency of the Council of the European Union, beginning on July 1, would focus on "values, economic prosperity and security," while maintaining support for Ukraine.Bolger also used the occasion to bid farewell ahead of the end of her posting next month, describing service in Jordan as "one of the greatest privileges of my career.""Jordan quickly became far more than a place of work; it became a home," she said.She concluded by congratulating Jordan's national football team, the Nashama, saying its World Cup performances and supporters had reinforced “my view that Jordanians are amazing people.”

Crown Prince Al Hussein, Princess Rajwa visit Replit in Silicon Valley

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 06:43:32 +0300

Jordan Daily - His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II, accompanied by Her Royal Highness Princess Rajwa Al Hussein, visited Replit, an AI software creation company in Silicon Valley, California.During a conversation with Replit’s founder and CEO, Jordanian entrepreneur Amjad Masad, the Crown Prince expressed his pride in Jordanian talent, which has proven capable of competing at the global level, noting the importance of harnessing drive and determination to capitalise on available opportunities and tools to maximise impact. His Royal Highness praised the productive collaboration between the National Council for Future Technology and Replit, a cloud-based software development platform and AI-powered coding assistant, which has resulted in the launch of the ‘Siraj’ project, an AI-powered Arabic-language learning assistant serving 1.3 million users across some 5,800 schools.Discussions also covered the potential of expanding cooperation on AI initiatives in the fields of education and skills development, as well as hosting programming competitions to drive innovation and accelerate development in priority sectors in Jordan, such as water and energy.Founded in 2016, Replit has a $9 billion market valuation, and specialises in AI-powered "vibe coding," allowing users to build and deploy web and mobile applications through natural language prompts rather than traditional coding.Their Royal Highnesses toured Replit headquarters, and were briefed about its Replit Collaboration workspace which supports synchronous, real-time team programming. The company currently has more than 50 million registered users and over 150,000 subscribers; its technologies have contributed to the creation of more than two million applications.Minister of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship Sami Smeirat, Jordan’s Ambassador to the United States Dina Kawar, and Director of the Office of the Crown Prince Zaid Baqain accompanied Their Royal Highnesses on the visit.

Jordan’s open-play edge undone by Algeria’s corner power in dramatic World Cup defeat

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 15:39:56 +0300

Dr Fadi MaayahCurtin University, AustraliaJordan Daily - For long stretches of this contest, Al Nashama were true to their name, playing brave, proactive football that reflected both courage and tactical discipline. They often looked like the better-coached and more coherent side. Yet when the final whistle arrived, it was Algeria who walked away with a 2–1 win, keeping their World Cup hopes alive while ending Jordan’s campaign. Jordan took the lead through Nizar Al-Rashdan in the 36th minute, but Algeria turned the match around with goals from Nadhir Benbouali in the 69th minute and Amine Gouiri in the 82nd, both coming from corners.This is why the match will be remembered as a painful tactical paradox for Al Nashama. In open play, Jordan were brave, organised and disciplined, executing their approach with conviction. In set plays, however, they were punished. The scoreline tells one story, but the flow of the game suggests another. For much of the night, Jordan imposed the clearer tactical identity, while Algeria ultimately found the one route Jordan could not fully close: dead-ball situations.Jordan’s structure was the foundation of their strongest moments. Set up in a 1-3-4-3, they condensed central areas effectively, remained compact between the lines, and created a platform for controlled transitions. Mousa Al Tamari, Ali Olwan and Mahmoud Almardi supported Nizar Al-Rashdan and Noor Al-Rawabdeh in midfield, providing a consistent counter-attacking outlet with the support of Ehsan Haddad and Mohannad Abu Taha. The back three of Yazan Al-Arab, Husam Abu Dahab and Abdullah Nasib stayed narrow and disciplined to protect high-value spaces. The opening goal reflected this balance, with Abu Taha cutting the ball back to Al Tamari, who became involved before Al-Rashdan finished with composure to give Jordan a deserved lead.What stood out most was Jordan’s bravery. They did not sit deep and absorb pressure passively. Instead, they defended with intent, stepped into key moments, and played forward whenever the opportunity emerged. Algeria may have dominated possession, but Jordan often controlled the rhythm of the contest. Their mid-block disrupted Algeria’s central progression, forcing play wide and limiting clear-cut chances. Every Jordanian transition felt purposeful, reinforcing their tactical clarity and collective belief.However, World Cup matches are often decided by fine margins, and in this case, by corners. Algeria’s intensity increased after the break, and their adjustments shifted momentum. Nadhir Benbouali’s equaliser came from a well-delivered corner, exploiting timing and aerial presence. Later, another corner produced the decisive moment, with Amine Gouiri reacting quickest in a crowded penalty area to score from close range. These were not moments of open-play superiority, but of efficiency and execution in key phases.Jordan’s defensive organisation in open play remained solid throughout, but in set-piece situations Algeria’s quality proved decisive. Delivery, movement and second-ball reactions created problems that Jordan could not fully resolve. In tournament football, such details can define outcomes, and Algeria capitalised when it mattered most.There is no shame in Jordan’s performance. They were not outplayed structurally or mentally. On the contrary, Al Nashama demonstrated bravery, tactical organisation and composure against an opponent with more possession and attacking pressure. Their performance reflected a clear plan, executed with discipline and belief.In the end, this was a match defined by two parallel truths. Jordan won the battle of open play through their bravery and structure. Algeria won the moments that mattered on the scoreboard. Al Nashama lived up to their identity, playing courageous and purposeful football, but the Desert Foxes showed the ruthless edge required at this level. Jordan’s shape and bravery gave them control for long periods, but Algeria’s dominance on corners ultimately decided the match.

Minister Abu Ghazaleh highlights investment opportunities in Jordan to Chinese investors

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 13:38:38 +0300

Business EditorJordan Daily - Minister of Investment Tareq Abu Ghazaleh took part in the opening of the China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE) in Beijing, using the event to promote investment opportunities in the kingdom and strengthen economic ties with China.Abu Ghazaleh attended the expo as a guest of honor at one of the world's leading platforms focused on supply chains, trade and investment. The event brings together government officials, business leaders and investors from across the globe to discuss the future of global supply chains and explore new partnerships.During a visit to China, Abu Ghazaleh launched an investment promotion campaign that includes meetings with Chinese companies, business associations and investors to showcase Jordan's investment climate and strategic projects.He also participated in a roundtable organized by the China Overseas Development Association (CODA) in cooperation with the Jordanian Embassy in Beijing. The discussions focused on opportunities in transport, logistics, renewable energy, water, industry, agriculture and technology.Addressing Chinese investors, Abu Ghazaleh highlighted reforms introduced in recent years to improve Jordan's business environment, streamline investment services and enhance competitiveness.He said Jordan offers investors a strategic location linking regional markets, modern infrastructure, political and economic stability, and access to international markets through a network of free trade agreements.The minister also attended the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Supply Chain Promotion Conference, where he reiterated Jordan's commitment to attracting high-quality investments that support technology transfer, job creation and sustainable economic growth.

Hikma welcomes FDA approval of Guardant360® Liquid CDx

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 11:55:19 +0300

Press ReleaseJordan Daily - Hikma Pharmaceuticals PLC (Hikma), the multinational pharmaceutical group, welcomes the recent U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of Guardant360® Liquid CDx, the largest FDA-approved liquid biopsy panel, developed by Guardant Health, Inc. (Nasdaq: GH). This development was highlighted at the sidelines of the 5th Annual International Oncology Forum IOF 2026 in the UAE, where Hikma and Guardant Health were platinum sponsors.Guardant360® Liquid CDx is the largest FDA-approved liquid biopsy panel (a type of test that detects cancer-related genomic material from a simple blood draw), offering a less invasive alternative to traditional tissue-based biomarker testing. Powered by Guardant's proprietary Smart Platform, the test integrates both genomic and epigenomic profiling from a single blood draw. It analyses a tumour's DNA mutations, allowing clinicians to make better-informed clinical decisions for patients with advanced cancer originating from solid organs. The test delivers a 100x wider genomic footprint and a several-fold increase in sensitivity for circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) detection compared to the previous Guardant360 CDx. With this approval, the seven previously FDA-approved companion diagnostic indications for Guardant360 CDx transfer to Guardant360 Liquid CDx.Hikma signed an exclusive agreement with Guardant Health, Inc. in 2024 for the commercialisation and marketing of its liquid and tissue biopsy tests for cancer screening, recurrence monitoring and tumour mutation profiling across all solid cancers in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). Guardant is the only precision oncology company to offer a complete portfolio of cancer solutions in the region.Commenting on this milestone, Mazen Darwazeh, Hikma's Executive Vice Chairman and Deputy CEO – MENA, said: "Our collaboration with Guardant Health is very important for introducing next-generation diagnostics in the MENA region, that can redefine cancer care. The recent FDA approval of Guardant360® Liquid CDx brings a highly advanced solution to clinicians, enabling a deeper understanding of tumour biology to guide precise treatment decisions. As a trusted and experienced partner in the region with a strong oncology portfolio, Hikma remains committed to enhancing access to precision medicine and delivering better outcomes for patients battling cancer.”“Guardant Health is the only precision oncology company to have three solutions receive FDA approval, reinforcing our leadership in comprehensive molecular profiling across the cancer continuum. With our proprietary Smart Platform, clinicians have access to advanced molecular insights to inform their treatment selection decisions, marking a new era in advanced cancer care,” said Simranjit Singh, Chief Executive Officer, Guardant Health AMEA.Results from Guardant360 Liquid CDx are available in as little as seven days once the sample is received in the laboratory, supporting more informed treatment decisions for patients regardless of tissue availability or line of therapy. Approved as a companion diagnostic across non-small cell lung cancer, colorectal cancer, and advanced breast cancer, it delivers a comprehensive view of tumour biology from a single blood draw.

Vance says US-Iran talks lay ‘good foundation’ for final peace deal

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 06:53:29 +0300

Reuters -US Vice President JD Vance said on Monday talks with Iranian officials in Switzerland had laid a “good foundation” for a final peace deal, despite tensions over the Strait of Hormuz and Lebanon.The two sides, trying to build on an interim deal signed last week, agreed to a roadmap toward a permanent agreement within 60 days at the talks in the Qatari-owned Swiss mountain resort of Buergenstock, mediators Pakistan and Qatar said.They also agreed on a mechanism to end fighting in Lebanon between US ally Israel and Iran-aligned Hezbollah, and opened a communications line to help ensure safe passage for commercial ships through the strait, a vital global oil supply route.VANCE DELIVERS UPBEAT ASSESSMENTVance said Tehran had agreed to allow in nuclear inspectors, and to establish mechanisms to handle its assets frozen abroad and manage ceasefires.“We laid a very good foundation for a successful final deal,” he told reporters after taking part in the talks. Since the US bombed Iran’s nuclear facilities in June last year, Iran has let the International ‌Atomic Energy Agency inspect ‌only facilities that were not attacked in those strikes. The IAEA halted inspections altogether after the US-Israeli strikes ‌that began ⁠the war ⁠with Iran on February 28 and they have not resumed since. Vance played down tensions over a threat on Sunday by US President Donald Trump to restart the war after Iran again closed the Strait of Hormuz, citing Washington’s failure to halt the fighting in Lebanon.“There was a little bit of threatening, there was a little bit of whining, but at the end of the day the talks continued and we made great progress,” Vance said.Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said on social media that Tehran had secured waivers for oil and petrochemical exports, the release of some of its frozen assets abroad and the launch of a reconstruction and development plan for Iran.Vance said White House envoy Jared Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law, had come up with a process where the US and Qatar would have control over Iranian ⁠funds when they are unfrozen that would allow the money to be spent on US corn, soy and wheat. Following ‌on from last week’s interim deal, or memorandum of understanding, the US Treasury Department issued a ‌general license for Iran on Monday authorizing the production, delivery and sale of crude oil and petrochemical and petroleum products of Iranian-origin through August 21.OIL PRICES DROPTechnical talks ‌were due to continue for the rest of this week, and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif wrote on X that the first round of ‌talks had “concluded successfully.”“The discussions were held in a positive and constructive atmosphere and yielded encouraging progress,” he said. Oil prices had risen sharply when Tehran started blockading the Strait of Hormuz, prompting a US blockade of Iranian ports, but fell after the interim deal to their lowest since the war began.Oil prices dipped further after Monday’s joint statement by Qatar and Pakistan, with worries about a supply shortage in global markets easing and global benchmark Brent crude trading below $80 per barrel.Before Sunday’s talks officially began, Fox News ‌quoted Trump as saying he had told Iranian officials “you won’t have a country” if they tried to close the strait again.Iran’s semi-official Tasnim news agency, citing an informed source, said that after Trump’s threats became public, ⁠the Iranian delegation refused to return to ⁠the room where talks were held, though messages were traded via the mediators.The MOU calls for reopening the Strait of Hormuz and ending all hostilities, including in Lebanon, where violence continued after a ceasefire was declared on Friday.Accusing the US of failing to meet its commitment to halt fighting in Lebanon, Iran said at the weekend that it had again stopped maritime traffic through the strait. But ship tracking data showed two crude tankers with just under 2 million barrels of oil had sailed through the strait on Monday, in a sign that traffic is picking up again, even though the sailings through Hormuz are still a fraction of the average daily crossings of 125 vessels before the Iran war began.VIOLENCE IN LEBANON ABATESThousands of people have been killed in the US-Israeli war against Iran, mostly in Iran and Lebanon, where Hezbollah opened fire in support of Iran on March 2.The violence in Lebanon has abated since late on Saturday, with security sources saying Israel’s last airstrike was on Saturday evening.Reflecting reduced tensions, the Israeli military lifted safety restrictions in eight communities near the Lebanese border beginning at 6 a.m. (0300 GMT) on Monday.Lebanese President Joseph Aoun discussed efforts to maintain the ceasefire and halt Israeli military escalation during a phone call with Vance, Qatar’s prime minister and Kushner, the Lebanese presidency said.Israeli President Isaac Herzog said Israel was not opposed to a diplomatic end to the Iran war, but any agreement must ensure Tehran cannot use funds it receives as part of the deal for military purposes or to support regional proxies.

UWallet launches direct payment service through Sanad and eFAWATEERcom

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 20:46:38 +0300

Jordan Daily - Digital wallet provider UWallet has launched a new direct payment service through the government's Sanad application and the eFAWATEERcom bill payment platform, becoming the first payment service provider in the country to offer the feature.The service allows users to make payments directly from their UWallet electronic wallets when accessing government services through Sanad or paying bills via eFAWATEERcom, following a one-time activation through the UWallet application.The company said the service is designed to simplify digital transactions by enabling customers to select UWallet as a direct payment method without having to enter payment details for each transaction.The move forms part of UWallet's broader strategy to expand digital financial services and enhance customer experience through integrated payment solutions."We continue to develop our services and strategic partnerships to provide more seamless digital solutions that support financial inclusion and improve financial services for individuals and businesses in Jordan," the company said in a statement seen by Jordan Daily.UWallet, a digital wallet licensed by the Central Bank of Jordan, was established in 2014. Its shareholders include telecommunications operator Umniah, Housing Bank, Bank al Etihad, Bank of Jordan, Jordan Ahli Bank, Arab Jordan Investment Bank, Cairo Amman Bank, Microfund for Women, and Network International.

Jerash Festival reinforces Jordan's role as regional cultural hub, Director says

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 19:12:11 +0300

News EditorJordan Daily - Jerash Festival for Culture and Arts, will return this summer for its 40th edition under the slogan "A Legacy That Endures, Generations Unite," highlighting four decades of artistic achievement while introducing new initiatives aimed at strengthening community participation and cultural exchange.Speaking to Radio Jordan, Jerash Festival Executive Director Yazan Al-Khadiri said the anniversary edition would feature more than 200 cultural, artistic, family and children's events, reaffirming the festival's position as one of the region's leading cultural platforms."The festival honors four decades of cultural continuity, artistic excellence and meaningful engagement with audiences from different generations," Al-Khadiri said. "It conveys a message of continuity and renewal, demonstrating that Jerash remains a living cultural institution that continues to evolve while remaining rooted in its history and culture."Held annually in the ancient Roman city of Jerash, the festival attracts thousands of visitors from Jordan and abroad, combining music, theatre, folklore, literature and visual arts in one of the country's most prominent cultural gatherings.Supporting Jordanian artists remains at the core of the festival's mission, according to Al-Khadiri. This year's programme will feature leading Jordanian performers alongside Arab and international artists, creating opportunities for local talent to reach wider audiences.The festival is also working closely with national cultural organizations, including the Jordanian Artists Syndicate, the Jordanian Writers Association and the Fine Arts Association, to strengthen local participation.Beyond showcasing Jordanian talent, the festival serves as a platform for cultural diplomacy and international exchange. Al-Khadiri said the 2026 edition would host more than 35 cultural exchange programmes involving artists, folklore groups and performers from countries including Italy, Japan, Hungary, Egypt, Sudan, Yemen and South Korea."Through this exchange, Jerash reinforces Jordan's position as a regional hub for culture and arts," he said, adding that such collaborations promote dialogue, mutual understanding and artistic cooperation among participating countries.One of the most significant additions this year is the introduction of a new venue within the archaeological city: the Hippodrome. A large stage with a capacity of more than 3,000 spectators is being developed to host performances and community activities.The site will also feature a dedicated marketplace where women from Jerash can display and sell local products, handicrafts and textiles, reflecting a broader effort to support local communities.Al-Khadiri described the initiative as one of the festival's most important partnerships with the local community, particularly women entrepreneurs."We are creating opportunities for local businesses led by women and young people to showcase their products and engage with visitors," he said. Dedicated spaces at both the Hippodrome and the Forum will allow participants to present cultural initiatives and take part in volunteer programmes.While visitor numbers are important, Al-Khadiri said the festival's success is measured by its lasting impact on communities across Jordan."We encourage people to come and visit," he said. “It will be a very diverse programme that caters to all generations and interests.”

Embassy of India marks 12th International Day of Yoga 2026 in Jordan

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 18:44:02 +0300

Jordan Daily - Embassy of India in Jordan marked the 12th International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2026 in Jordan with a live yoga session at the picturesque Royal Botanic Garden, Tell Ar Rumman on 21st June. TThe event saw wide participation from various sections of society, comprising prominent local Yoga Schools/studios, representatives of Jordanian institutions, members of diplomatic community, Indian diaspora and yoga enthusiasts, the Embassy said in a statement.The participants performed the Common Yoga Protocol, guided by Ms. Eman Suheimat, a certified and renowned Jordanian Yoga Instructor. Set amidst the natural beauty of the Royal Botanic Garden, the session provided a unique opportunity for participants to experience the holistic benefits of yoga while reconnecting with the nature. Ms. Samah Al Sherif played the soothing Handpan instrument to go with the flow of exercises and Master Anirudh Nagella played Tabla on the occasion.Ambassador Manish Chauhan presented momentos to the Yoga trainer & the performers. Embassy expressed its sincere gratitude to the Royal Botanic Garden, partner organizations, volunteers, yoga practitioners, and all participants whose support contributed to the success of the event.In the run up to the Main Event, the Embassy had organized two countdown Yoga events - 45 days to IDY 2026 at the Chancery and 15 days to IDY 2026 at Trax Jo, Amman in association with the Indian Community in Jordan (ICJ).With the efforts of the Prime Minister of India Mr. Narendra Modi, the International Day of Yoga is being observed annually on 21 June following its adoption by the United Nations General Assembly in 2014. Since than, it has become a global movement promoting physical health, mental resilience, and inner balance in today's fast-paced world. The 2026 celebrations were held under the global theme “Yoga for Healthy Ageing”, emphasizing the intrinsic connection between individual well-being, societal health, and environmental sustainability. The occasion is marked by events and activities in countries around the world to raise awareness about the numerous benefits of this ancient practice from India.The IDY celebration reaffirmed the shared commitment of India and Jordan in promoting healthy lifestyles, environmental consciousness, and intercultural dialogue. The Embassy looks forward to further strengthening the bonds of friendship between the peoples of India and Jordan.

Classic Fashion recognized for diversity & inclusion at IFC–ASE Jordan Diversity Trailblazer Awards 2026

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 16:19:46 +0300

Jordan Daily - Classic Fashion Apparel Industry Ltd. Co. has been awarded the Bronze Trophy at the IFC–ASE Jordan Diversity Trailblazer Awards 2026, held at the Amman Stock Exchange in Amman, Jordan.The annual award, organized by the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the Amman Stock Exchange (ASE), recognizes organizations that are advancing diversity and inclusion and creating greater opportunities for women in the workplace. The initiative highlights employers across Jordan that continue to prioritize equitable and inclusive work environments despite ongoing regional challenges.Classic Fashion was recognized among leading organizations from different sectors for its commitment to fostering a workplace culture built on opportunity, respect, and growth. The recognition reflects the company's ongoing efforts to support its people and strengthen pathways for women across its workforce.The 2026 IFC–ASE Jordan Diversity Trailblazer Awards received submissions from organizations across Jordan, showcasing the private sector’s continued commitment to workplace inclusion and gender-smart practices. The awards celebrate organizations that are helping shape a more equitable future of work while contributing to sustainable economic growth.Classic Fashion extends its appreciation to IFC and ASE for this recognition and congratulates all fellow award recipients for their contributions to advancing diversity and inclusion across Jordan’s business community.About Classic Fashion Apparel Industry Ltd. Co.Classic Fashion is a leading manufacturer of ready-made garments based in Jordan, employing over 36,000 people across its state-of-the-art production facilities. Committed to ethical manufacturing and community development, the company exports to international markets while investing heavily in local talent development, particularly for women in the industrial sector.

Azerbaijan's Aliyev receives House speaker, backs stronger bilateral relations

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 06:09:53 +0300

Jordan Daily - Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev met a Jordanian parliamentary delegation led by Speaker of the House of Representatives Mazen Al Qadi on Sunday, with both sides highlighting friendly ties and prospects for deeper cooperation between the two countries.According to Azerbaijan State News Agency AZERTAC, Aliyev said relations between Azerbaijan and Jordan were based on friendship and brotherhood and expressed confidence that cooperation in political, economic, humanitarian and interparliamentary fields would continue to expand.Aliyev welcomed Al Qadi’s participation in the 20th Session of the Conference of the Parliamentary Union of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Member States,to be held in Baku, saying the visit would help strengthen bilateral relations and create opportunities for closer cooperation between the two countries’ legislatures.Al Qadi conveyed greetings from King Abdullah II to the Azerbaijani president. Aliyev thanked the king for the message, asked that his own greetings be passed on in return, and invited Abdullah to visit Azerbaijan.The speaker said ties between the two countries had developed successfully due to the political will of both leaders. He praised Azerbaijan’s development and stability and congratulated the country on the restoration of its territorial integrity and sovereignty, AZERTAC said.Al Qadi also commended reconstruction and development projects underway in the Karabakh and East Zangezur regions and said Baku’s appearance had left a strong impression on him.The two sides discussed cooperation within the OIC and issues affecting the Islamic world. President Aliyev reiterated Baku’s support for Islamic solidarity and a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with East Jerusalem as the capital of a future Palestinian state.

The politics of presence

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 06:26:04 +0300

By : Nedal ZubeidiJordan Daily - The first challenge facing any government is not a lack of plans. Governments are rarely short of plans. They are short of trust.Across the Arab world, citizens have grown accustomed to hearing promises, strategies, roadmaps, and visions. They have attended countless ceremonies announcing projects whose completion dates remain perpetually in the future. Over time, the distance between the government and the governed became not merely geographical, but psychological. The state spoke. The citizen listened. Neither was entirely convinced by the other.Against this backdrop, the governing style adopted by Prime Minister, Jafar Hassan, deserves thoughtful examination.I do not know the man personally, nor do I belong to the camp that celebrates governments for the sake of celebration. Governments are not football clubs. They are instruments of public service. They succeed, fail, and eventually pass. But fairness requires us to acknowledge what is visible before we debate what remains uncertain.In less than two years, Jordanians have witnessed a pattern that has been relatively uncommon in recent governments: a prime minister who spends a significant amount of time outside the capital, visiting governorates, municipalities, schools, hospitals, industrial zones, investment projects, and remote communities. Reports indicate visits to more than fifty sites across ten governorates within the first months of his tenure, generating dozens of administrative and executive follow-ups.The immediate question is obvious: so what?In management theory, there is a concept known as "management by walking around." The idea is deceptively simple. Top officials often receive filtered information. Problems become smaller as they travel upward through bureaucratic layers. Reports are edited. Statistics are polished. Failures acquire explanations. Successes acquire a shine they may not entirely deserve.This is why the question is not whether Jafar Hassan's visits matter. The real question is whether they are becoming part of a governing philosophy or merely a governing style.If the visits result in faster decision-making, improved accountability, better service delivery, and the removal of bureaucratic obstacles, then they become more than symbolic gestures. They become instruments of governance. If they remain isolated events that generate headlines but not measurable improvements, they will eventually be forgotten.The challenge facing Hassan, therefore, is not to continue visiting. It is to create systems that function even when he is not there.Some journalists have criticized the prime minister intensely. Criticism is neither surprising nor undesirable. Public officials should expect scrutiny; indeed, they should welcome it.When a government is absent from the field, the media criticizes its detachment. When a government appears constantly in the field, the media should not ignore that fact simply because it complicates a preferred narrative.Unfortunately, much of the new media- globally, not only in Jordan-has become trapped between two temptations. One is public relations disguised as journalism. The other is opinion-driven commentary disguised as journalism. Both abandon the difficult work of objective observation.A responsible press should be capable of saying two things: The prime minister's field engagement is unusual and noteworthy.Jordan today faces challenges that no prime minister can solve through visits alone: unemployment, economic growth, public debt, investment competitiveness, regional instability, water scarcity, and the aspirations of a remarkably young population. None of these issues yield to good intentions alone.Perhaps that is why the most interesting aspect of Jafar Hassan's tenure is not the number of visits he has made. It is the message those visits send about the relationship between authority and proximity.For decades, Arab governance often projected distance as a symbol of prestige. The higher the office, the greater the separation. The citizen approached power through layers of bureaucracy.Hassan appears to be experimenting with a different model: reducing the distance between decision-makers and the realities they seek to govern.Whether that experiment succeeds remains an open question, but it deserves to be evaluated honestly.

ExceedLink signs MoU with Tawqi3i to strengthen digital trust and cybersecurity

Sun, 21 Jun 2026 16:03:01 +0300

Business EditorJordan Daily - Jordan-based technology and cybersecurity company ExceedLink has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with digital trust solutions provider Tawqi3i, aiming to enhance the latter’s cybersecurity capabilities and support its vision of delivering leading digital trust services.Under the agreement, ExceedLink will leverage its cybersecurity expertise to support Tawqi3i in strengthening its security posture, improving cyber readiness, and adopting international best practices. The collaboration is intended to help create a more secure and trusted digital environment for Tawqi3i’s customers and partners.According to a statement seen by Jordan Daily, the partnership reflects the growing importance of cybersecurity and digital trust as organizations accelerate their digital transformation efforts across the region.The memorandum of understanding was signed by Jalal Safadi, Chief Executive Officer of ExceedLink, and Sami Rasekh, Chief Executive Officer of Tawqi3i, underscoring both companies’ commitment to expanding cooperation and supporting the advancement of digital transformation and digital trust initiatives.

The Arab region is the most exposed to food shocks caused by the war in the Region - Report

Sun, 21 Jun 2026 15:39:33 +0300

Jordan Daily- The Phenix Center for Economic and Informatics Studies has issued a new report entitled “Assessing the Food Security Implications of the U.S.–Israeli War against Iran.” The report examines the impacts of the war, the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, and disruptions in energy, fertilizer, and maritime transport markets on food systems at the global and regional levels, with a special focus on the Arab region as one of the most food-import-dependent regions in the world.In its report, the Center noted that, although the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding is expected to open a path toward de-escalation, and although the gradual reopening of the Strait of Hormuz has begun, carrying initial positive indications of the possible restoration of part of maritime traffic and trade, the risks associated with the war have not yet come to an end. The effects of the previous closure of the Strait, the continued lack of clarity in the negotiations between the United States and Iran, the persistence of potential flashpoints in the region, and Israeli efforts to obstruct the negotiation process or keep the region in a state of tension remain serious sources of risk for food security, energy markets, and international trade.The report emphasized that the significance of the gradual reopening of the Strait of Hormuz lies in the fact that it is a necessary step toward easing pressures on oil, gas, shipping, and fertilizer markets, and restoring part of the confidence in global supply chains. However, the Center stressed that reopening the Strait alone is not sufficient to eliminate the risks unless it is accompanied by political and security guarantees that ensure the stability of navigation, prevent a return to closure or disruption of vessel movement, and reduce the likelihood of military escalation or the targeting of vital maritime routes and infrastructure.The report explained that the war threatens food security not only through the possible direct decline in agricultural production, but primarily through the disruption of the interconnected systems on which the modern global food system depends. Today, food is closely linked to energy prices, fertilizer availability, the stability of shipping routes, insurance costs, exchange rates, and governments’ ability to finance subsidies, strategic reserves, and social protection programmes. Accordingly, any disruption in one of these components can quickly spread across the various links of the food supply chain, from production to transport, storage, processing, distribution, and consumption.The report indicated that the Strait of Hormuz occupies a central position in this crisis, as one of the world’s most important strategic maritime chokepoints. Massive volumes of oil pass through it daily, in addition to a significant share of fertilizer and agricultural input trade, including urea, ammonia, sulphur, and phosphate products. Therefore, the closure of the Strait or the disruption of navigation through it affects not only energy markets, but also the cost of agricultural production and the availability of essential inputs for farmers around the world.The report identified five main channels through which the effects of the war are transmitted to food security. The first is the rise in energy prices, which increases the cost of operating agricultural machinery, irrigation, transport, refrigeration, processing, and storage. The second relates to disruptions in fertilizer production and trade, particularly nitrogen fertilizers, which depend on natural gas as both a feedstock and an energy source. The third is the disruption of maritime transport, accompanied by higher freight and insurance costs and delays in the arrival of goods and agricultural inputs. The fourth concerns inflationary pressures and exchange-rate fluctuations, especially in countries that import food priced in U.S. dollars. The fifth is the growing fiscal pressure on governments seeking to maintain food subsidies, expand social protection, and strengthen strategic reserves amid rising import bills.The Phenix Center pointed out that the Arab region is among the most exposed regions to this shock due to its structural dependence on imports of food, cereals, vegetable oils, animal feed, fertilizers, and agricultural inputs. This vulnerability is rooted in accumulated factors, including water scarcity, limited arable land, population pressure, climate change, weak agricultural productivity, and extensive reliance on international markets. The report notes that around 65 percent of cereal consumption in Arab countries is secured through imports, making the region highly sensitive to increases in energy, shipping, fertilizer, and food commodity prices.The report further noted that the level of risk varies within the Arab region. Gulf countries possess financial resources, strategic reserves, and institutional capacities that help them absorb short-term shocks, yet they remain heavily dependent on imported food, maritime routes, and energy-intensive desalination systems. Mashreq countries, such as Jordan, Iraq, Lebanon, and Palestine, face compound risks resulting from import dependence, water scarcity, fiscal pressures, and declining purchasing power. In North Africa, countries such as Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria, and Libya are affected to varying degrees by rising costs of cereals, energy, fertilizers, and transport.The report warned that fragile Arab states and those affected by conflicts and occupation, such as Yemen, Sudan, Palestine, Lebanon, and Syria, face the most severe risks. In these contexts, the war does not create a food crisis from scratch; rather, it deepens pre-existing crises caused by displacement, weak institutions, collapsing services, declining purchasing power, and shrinking humanitarian funding. Rising fuel and transport prices also increase the cost of delivering food assistance to the most vulnerable groups.The report concluded that the duration of the crisis will be the decisive factor in determining the depth of its impact. Short-term disruptions may raise prices and increase the costs of energy, shipping, and fertilizers, but they may remain containable. However, if the crisis continues for several months or across more than one agricultural season, it could turn into a deeper food shock, leading to reduced fertilizer use, declining crop productivity, and sustained increases in food prices.The Phenix Center called for the adoption of multi-level responses, including diversifying sources of food and fertilizer imports, expanding strategic reserves, strengthening social protection systems that can be scaled up during crises, developing Arab cooperation in managing reserves and supply chains, investing in climate-smart agriculture and water-saving irrigation technologies, reducing food loss and waste, supporting small farmers, and strengthening early warning and market monitoring systems. The Center also stressed that stable navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and the consolidation of its gradual reopening are essential conditions for easing current pressures on food, energy, and international trade.

UNHCR says 400,000 refugees remain registered in Jordan, funding gap widens

Sun, 21 Jun 2026 16:38:32 +0300

Jordan Daily - The number of refugees registered with the UNHCR in Jordan has reached 400,000, including about 380,000 Syrians, the agency's spokesperson in Jordan, Yousef Taha, said on Saturday.More than 20% of the refugees live in the Zaatari and Azraq camps, Taha said, adding that Jordan remains one of the world's largest refugee-hosting countries relative to its population, with roughly one in every 18 people in the country classified as a refugee.Taha said hosting large refugee populations places pressure on Jordan's economy and stressed that protecting refugees is a shared international responsibility.Despite the voluntary return of nearly 200,000 Syrian refugees to Syria, around 380,000 Syrians remain in Jordan, he said. A recent survey conducted by the U.N. refugee agency found that more than 70% of Syrian refugees hope to return home eventually, but many cite financial constraints, lack of housing and damaged infrastructure in Syria as barriers.Taha also warned of a significant funding shortfall affecting services for refugees, noting that international support has declined sharply over the past four years.Earlier, the agency said 23,150 refugees had returned to Syria since the start of 2026, including 2,500 between June 1 and June 13. Women accounted for 49% of returnees and men 51%, while children made up 41% of those returning. About 58% returned with their families, while 42% returned individually or without all family members.

London, Amman bourses explore stronger cooperation and exchange of expertise

Sat, 20 Jun 2026 16:16:42 +0300

Business EditorJordan Daily- A delegation from the London Stock Exchange (LSE), led by Head of Primary Markets for the Middle East and Africa Abi Ajayi, discussed ways to strengthen cooperation and exchange expertise with the Amman Stock Exchange (ASE), including promoting investment opportunities in Jordan to British investors, the ASE said on Saturday.The talks focused on measures to support greater engagement between the two exchanges, including plans to organize a "Jordan Day" at the London Stock Exchange to showcase investment opportunities in Jordan and introduce listed Jordanian companies to U.K.-based investors.Chief Executive Officer Mazen Wathaifi highlighted the exchange's performance over the past year, saying it had achieved record results despite regional and global challenges, supported by confidence in Jordan's economy and the country's attractive investment climate.He said ongoing improvements to the business environment, government measures supporting key economic sectors, and the implementation of projects under Jordan's Economic Modernization Vision had contributed to stronger market performance.According to Wathaifi, the ASE ranked first regionally and 13th globally in terms of gains in its general index, while listed companies recorded their second-highest profit levels on record.He added that the exchange would continue developing its regulatory framework, digital services and market infrastructure in line with international standards to enhance competitiveness and investor appeal.Ajayi praised Jordan's economic performance, saying the country had demonstrated resilience, a commitment to reform, a dynamic private sector and strong entrepreneurial talent. He said the LSE saw significant potential for partnership with the ASE to help Jordanian companies access broader pools of international capital and expand their global investor base.

Al-Kindi Hospital hosts anti-smoking awareness lectures

Sat, 20 Jun 2026 15:58:35 +0300

Jordan Daily - Al-Kindi Hospital hosted a series of health awareness lectures on the dangers of smoking and smoking cessation at its main conference center as part of efforts to promote preventive healthcare and raise public awareness.Held under the theme “Together for a Tobacco-Free Tomorrow,” the event was organized in cooperation with the King Hussein Cancer Foundation and the Jordan Olympic Committee and attended by hospital employees.The lectures highlighted the harmful effects of smoking on the human body and emphasized the importance of quitting tobacco use to reduce the risk of numerous diseases. Speakers also outlined practical steps to help smokers begin their cessation journey and adopt healthier lifestyles.The initiative forms part of Al-Kindi Hospital’s ongoing commitment to enhancing health education and fostering a culture of prevention among its staff and the wider community.

Iran’s supreme leader Khamenei says approved US deal despite having ‘different view’

Fri, 19 Jun 2026 06:20:14 +0300

AFP- Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei said on Thursday that he had approved a deal with the United States to end the Middle East war despite having a “different view,” without elaborating.“In principle, I had a different view (about the memorandum of understanding), but I issued my permission due to the commitment that the honorable (Iranian) president, as the chairman of the Supreme National Security Council, gave me on behalf of himself and other members to protect the rights of the Iranian nation and the Resistance Front,” Khamenei said in message read on state televisionKhamenei has not been seen in public since he took office in March following the killing of his father and predecessor Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in the US-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28 that sparked the regional war.The message was his first reaction to the Iran-US deal to end the conflict that was signed by US Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian.Khamenei said Trump had “used all kinds of levers” to secure the deal “out of desperation.”In his message, Khamenei noted that he received assurances from Pezeshkian about the deal and that it would not be accepted “if the American side wants to make excessive demands.”“It is obvious that the face-to-face negotiations that will be held in the future will not mean accepting the enemy’s point of view,” he added.

Jordan's V-Tech eyes regional growth as industrial investment boom gains pace

Fri, 19 Jun 2026 08:12:41 +0300

Nedal ZubeidiJordan Daily - Jordanian engineering services firm V-Tech for Engineering & Trading is seeking to expand into Syria and deepen partnerships with international manufacturers as the Kingdom prepares for a wave of major infrastructure and industrial projects across the region, its founder and chief executive said.Engineer Mousab Al-Matarneh, founder and CEO of V-Tech, said the company has grown rapidly since its launch in 2024, building relationships with some of Jordan's largest industrial operators and generating revenues within its first two and a half years."We believed from the beginning that we had to create value, not become just another trading company," Al-Matamneh told Jordan Daily in an interview on the sidelines of the JIMEX 2026, the 21st International Machinery, Electricity, Energy Trade Show in Jordan.The company serves exclusively industrial clients, working on filtration systems, conveying systems, weighing technologies and production-process solutions. Its customer base includes sectors ranging from mining, cement and pharmaceuticals to food production and dairy manufacturing.According to Al-Matamneh, V-Tech works with around 15 major industrial companies in Jordan and abroad, including Jordanian Phosphate Mines, Arab Potash Company, cement producers and pharmaceutical manufacturers.The company is headquartered in Jordan and is exploring opportunities to establish a branch in Syria, where reconstruction efforts are expected to create demand for industrial equipment and engineering services."Syria today represents a reconstruction opportunity," Al-Matamneh said. "Jordan can become a gateway for regional business and exports."Jordan is entering a period of significant investment activity, he added, pointing to infrastructure and strategic projects worth an estimated $20 billion that could stimulate economic growth across multiple sectors."When infrastructure projects begin, the entire economic cycle moves- from cement production to labor markets and consumer spending," he said.V-Tech sources equipment and technologies from a network of international partners spanning France, Germany, Italy, the Czech Republic, Spain, India, China and South Africa. The company is also pursuing agreements aimed at strengthening cooperation in the mining sector, including potential partnerships involving South African firms.The company currently employs 13 personnel, with an average employee age of 29. Al-Matamneh said V-Tech places particular emphasis on recruiting and training recent graduates before integrating them into the workforce.One of the biggest challenges facing the company remains access to working capital, he said."The main challenge for any startup company is cash flow," Al-Matamneh noted.To address financing constraints, V-Tech has relied on strong relationships with European suppliers willing to ship equipment without advance payments, allowing projects to proceed despite limited liquidity.Despite ongoing geopolitical challenges across the Middle East, Al-Matamneh said he remains optimistic about Jordan's prospects, citing its strategic location between Saudi Arabia, Iraq and Syria and its potential role as a regional industrial and logistics hub."The changes taking place in the region can create opportunities for Jordan," he said. “We need to take advantage of our geographic position and the trust we have built with international partners.”

JIMEX remains key gateway to Arab markets, Indian export official says

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 12:23:37 +0300

Nedal ZubeidiJordan Daily - Jordan's JIMEX exhibition remains one of the largest and most influential electromechanical trade fairs in the Arab region, despite a decline in visitor numbers this year due to regional geopolitical tensions, an Indian trade representative said on Wednesday.Jitender Kumar, Manager for International and MENA Region at the India Export Promotion Council (IEPC India), said Indian companies have participated regularly in the exhibition for the past 10 to 15 years, with the exception of disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic."We are working under India's Ministry of Commerce and Industry through the Export Promotion Council, which promotes exports from India," Kumar said during an interview with Jordan Daily at the exhibition. "We have nearly 15,000 member companies and circulate information about international exhibitions among them."According to Kumar, Indian participation has varied over the years, reaching as many as 60 companies at one stage and around 30 companies in 2023. This year, only 10 Indian firms attended."The situation was not favorable because of the war between Iran and the United States, so many companies preferred to avoid travel," he said.The Indian delegation at JIMEX consists entirely of Indian manufacturers from the electromechanical sector, including companies specializing in electrical equipment, switchgear, batteries, meters and related products.Kumar, who has visited Jordan repeatedly over the years, praised the organization and marketing of JIMEX and credited the event with helping Indian companies establish long-term business relationships in the region."As of today, this is one of the biggest electromechanical exhibitions in this region," he said. "It is well organized, well planned and well marketed by the organizers. That is why many of our companies keep returning year after year."Several Indian exhibitors have already secured local distributors in Jordan, reflecting the commercial opportunities generated by the event, he added.However, Kumar noted that visitor turnout was lower than expected this year, particularly from neighboring countries."We expected more visitors from Egypt, Syria and Iraq," he said. "Normally, visitors come from across the region, but this time the numbers were lower."He attributed the shortfall largely to regional instability and ongoing security concerns.Kumar also commended the Indian Embassy in Jordan for its support of trade promotion efforts, saying embassy officials actively encourage Indian participation in the exhibition and work with government agencies to expand exports under India's "Make in India" initiative."Our embassy is doing its job very beautifully," he said. "The ambassador is keen to increase exports and has assured us that next year we may come with double the number of companies."JIMEX is regarded as one of Jordan's premier trade exhibitions, bringing together companies from the electrical, mechanical and energy sectors and attracting visitors from across the Middle East.

Rasha Oudeh’s ‘Leadership Without Sugarcoating’ now available in Amman

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 10:55:02 +0300

Jordan Daily - In the heart of downtown Amman, where the Arab Culture Kiosk كشك الثقافة العربية has long stood as a fixture of Jordan's cultural life and a meeting point for generations of readers, a new book by Jordanian entrepreneur and business strategist Rasha Oudeh, Leadership Without Sugarcoating, is now available exclusively through the landmark bookseller.Drawing on more than two decades of experience expanding Swiss and German brands across international markets, the book explores themes of resilience, accountability and leadership under pressure, reflecting Oudeh's view that leadership is defined less by titles than by decision-making and responsibility during challenging periods.Oudeh, who is based in Zurich and works across Switzerland and Germany, is the founder and chair of CEDEM AG and Global Match AG, two Swiss firms specializing in international growth, market access, digital transformation and commercial expansion across the Middle East, Africa and the United States.The book draws on lessons from her career advising companies on cross-border expansion and navigating complex business environments, offering practical insights on leadership, strategic thinking and organizational responsibility.

Jordanian, Czech firms explore energy, investment partnerships at Amman meetings

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 06:56:40 +0300

Business EditorJordan Daily - Amman Chamber of Commerce hosted Jordanian-Czech business-to-business meetings on Wednesday in cooperation with the Czech Embassy in Amman and the EuroCham-Jordan, bringing together Czech energy companies and Jordanian business representatives.Amman Chamber of Commerce President Khalil Al-Haj Tawfiq said Jordanian-Czech relations represented a model of cooperation based on mutual respect and shared interests, stressing the importance of expanding direct engagement between the two countries’ business communities and strengthening economic and investment partnerships.He said the chamber prioritizes international economic cooperation and supports links between Jordanian firms and their global counterparts to encourage investment, technology transfer and knowledge exchange. He noted that Czech companies possess advanced expertise in energy, sustainability and industrial development, creating promising opportunities for cooperation with Jordanian businesses.Czech Ambassador to Jordan Andrea Kucírová said her country is keen to deepen trade, investment and economic ties with Jordan. She noted that the visiting delegation included companies specializing in renewable and sustainable energy, smart automation, monitoring systems and energy management solutions.Mohammad Al-Smadi, chairman of EuroCham-Jordan, highlighted the importance of strengthening economic cooperation between Jordan and European countries, saying the chamber works to facilitate partnerships, technology transfer and business networking.The event featured presentations by Czech companies specializing in energy and smart technologies, followed by bilateral meetings aimed at exploring investment opportunities and potential partnerships.

US and Iran sign initial deal to end war, ease sanctions and open strait as nuclear talks continue

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 06:33:18 +0300

AP- President Donald Trump signed an agreement with Iran on Wednesday that calls for Tehran to dilute its stockpile of highly enriched uranium and waives US-backed sanctions on the country, immediately allowing Iran to sell its oil freely in a major concession from Washington, according to details released by both countries.The initial deal to end the war takes “immediate effect” after leaders from both countries signed it, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who helped mediate the agreement, said online.The agreement calls for a permanent end to hostilities and starts a 60-day negotiating clock to reach a final deal on the future of Iran’s nuclear program, though Trump left the door open to resume attacks. It appears to offer Iran several benefits up front while extracting little in return.The deal has been shrouded in secrecy and confusion for days. US officials refused to disclose the terms even after saying Trump and Vice President JD Vance digitally signed it over the weekend. Trump signed a physical copy Wednesday while dining with French President Emmanuel Macron at Versailles, the palace where many historic agreements have been signed over the centuries, ending wars or territorial disputes.The White House had planned a signing ceremony on Friday in Switzerland, but its fate is now uncertain, with conflicting information from the US, Iran and Pakistan.“It’s signed,” Trump said as he left the dinner at Versailles, which followed his trip to the Group of Seven summit in France.In a video posted online by a White House aide, Trump was seen seated at a table next to Macron signing a paper copy of the agreement. Trump then handed the document and pen to Secretary of State Marco Rubio as people in the room applauded.“This was not easy,” Trump said right before he signed it, according to a video posted to social media by Macron.In Tehran, a stone-faced President Masoud Pezeshkian signed the deal on behalf of Iran, according to the state-run IRNA news agency, which posted an image of him holding up the deal with his signature and Trump’s.Text of the agreement still has not been formally released by the Americans. US officials dictated draft language to journalists after days of secrecy, speaking on condition of anonymity. Iranian state media has released text that largely tracked what the US put out.US President Donald Trump signs the MoU. (X: @Scavino47 via Reuters TV)The deal will stop the fighting and start more negotiationsMuch of the agreement would restore the status quo before the war, including ending hostilities, restarting talks between the US and Iran over Tehran’s nuclear program, and reopening the Strait of Hormuz, the crucial passage for the world’s oil and natural gas whose closure created a historic energy crisis.The agreement opens the strait without tolls for two months, but does not preclude fees in the future, according to the drafts from both countries.In return, the US will move to waive, but not eliminate, some wide-ranging sanctions against Iran.The deal also affirms a commitment to Lebanon’s territorial integrity in the face of Israel’s invasion against the Hezbollah militant group. That is one of the most delicate parts of the agreement because Israel has maintained it will continue to defend itself and to occupy vast swaths of Lebanon. Iran has said Israel must withdraw under the deal, a condition Israel has already rejected.The US and Israel went to war Feb. 28 in part to prevent Iran from ever getting a nuclear weapon. Trump has cited various goals for the war, including at times vowing it would end Iran’s nuclear and missile programs and its support for Hezbollah and other proxy groups. He also suggested it could lead to toppling the Iranian government.The interim deal falls short of all those goals, but Trump hailed it as “very strong.”He also opened the door to abandoning it: “It’s a memorandum of understanding, and if I don’t like it, we’ll go back to shooting at them, dropping bombs."

Proud moment for Jordan: First World Cup achievement - Al Nashama made us proud, undefeated in spirit

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 15:23:13 +0300

Dr. Fadi Maayah Curtin UniversityJordan Daily - Jordan’s World Cup debut may have ended in a 3–1 defeat to Austria, but the scoreline does not capture the full story. On a historic night, Al Nashama demonstrated courage, organisation, and a clear football identity, proving they are capable of competing on the global stage.This was more than just a result — it was a milestone. Jordan’s first appearance at a FIFA World Cup produced not only a competitive performance, but also their first-ever goal in the tournament, marking a defining moment in the country’s football history.From the opening whistle, Jordan showed intent. Their tactical approach was clear: a compact defensive structure combined with quick transitions and direct attacking play. That strategy almost paid off immediately. In the opening minutes (1:29), Jordan executed a rapid transition from defence to attack. Abu Taha played forward into space for Mousa Al Tamari, who drove forward with speed before the move ended with captain Ihsan Haddad striking the side netting. It was an early sign that Jordan could create genuine attacking threat.Austria responded with their first opportunity in the 19th minute, attacking down the left flank, although the move was later flagged offside. However, the breakthrough came just a minute later. Romano Schmid found space outside the penalty area and delivered a powerful strike to give Austria the lead.This goal highlighted a key tactical issue for Jordan. Their midfield unit dropped too deep, leaving space in the critical Zone 14 area — just outside the penalty box. Austria exploited this gap effectively, allowing Schmid time to execute a high-quality finish from distance.Despite the setback, Jordan remained composed and organised. In the 32nd minute, Austria threatened again when a forward run broke through the defensive line, but Yazan Al Arab produced a vital clearance. Just two minutes later, Jordan responded with one of the most promising attacking sequences of the game. A long ball to Ihsan Haddad was intelligently headed into the path of Mousa Al Tamari, who drove between defenders and forced a strong save. The rebound fell again for a second effort, but it too was denied. This sequence perfectly illustrated Jordan’s ability to combine direct play with second-phase attacking pressure.The second half saw Jordan continue to believe and push forward. Odeh Al Fakhouri (No.11) provided another attacking moment, finding space and taking a shot on goal, demonstrating Jordan’s ability to create opportunities beyond transitional play and maintain attacking presence.The defining moment of the night arrived in the 49th minute. Ali Olwan collected the ball in the middle third, drove forward with pace and purpose, entered the penalty area, and finished clinically. It was a historic goal — Jordan’s first at a World Cup — and a moment that reflected both individual brilliance and tactical confidence.At 1–1, the game became finely balanced. Jordan defended with discipline and continued to threaten, while Austria increased their control through possession and structured build-up. However, the turning point came not in open play, but from set pieces.In the 66th minute, Austria had the ball in the net from a corner, but the goal was ruled out following a VAR review for handball. Despite this reprieve, the warning signs were clear. Shortly afterwards, another corner was delivered into the central danger zone. Under pressure in an aerial duel, Yazan Al Arab deflected the ball into his own net in the 75th minute, restoring Austria’s lead.This moment underlined a key difference between the sides. While Jordan were competitive in open play, Austria’s physicality and organisation in set-piece situations proved decisive. The ability to win aerial duels and capitalise on second balls ultimately shifted the game in Austria’s favour.In the final stages, fatigue and pressure began to affect Jordan’s defensive structure. Deep into added time (90+12), Austria attacked again, and a shot struck a Jordanian defender’s arm. Following a VAR review, a penalty was awarded and converted to seal the 3–1 result.Tactically, the match showcased a clear contrast of styles. Austria dominated possession and relied on structured build-up, while Jordan’s strength lay in compact defending and rapid transitions. Importantly, Jordan created several high-quality chances despite having less of the ball, highlighting their efficiency and attacking clarity.There are significant positives for Jordan moving forward. Their transition game was effective, their attacking players — particularly Mousa Al Tamari and Ali Olwan — showed quality, and the overall team structure enabled them to compete against a higher-ranked opponent.However, areas for improvement remain clear:Better midfield positioning, particularly controlling space in Zone 14Improved defensive organisation during set piecesStronger game management in critical momentsUltimately, this performance goes beyond the result. Jordan showed identity, belief, and tactical discipline. They proved they can compete at the highest level and create meaningful moments against strong opposition.Al Nashama may have lost the match, but they delivered something far more important — pride, history, and belief for a nation. In spirit, performance, and progress, they remain undefeated.

Jordan, EU set November 19 date for rescheduled investment conference

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 13:41:16 +0300

Jordan Daily - The Government of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and the European Union announced that the Jordan-EU Investment Conference 2026, will be held under the patronage of His Majesty King Abdullah II ibn Al Hussein and with the participation of Her Excellency Ursula von der Leyen, on 19 November 2026 at the King Hussein Bin Talal Convention Centre at the Dead Sea.In a joint statement, the EU and the Government of Jordan reaffirm their close and longstanding partnership and their shared commitment to strengthening economic cooperation, promoting sustainable growth, and deepening trade and investment ties between their business communities.Tailor-made for investors, companies and financial institutions, the Conference will provide an important platform to showcase Jordan's attractive investment environment, highly skilled workforce and strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia and Africa, creating new opportunities for partnerships between Jordanian and European businesses. Building on the strong momentum generated by recent engagements with the European business community, the Conference will further support efforts to mobilise investment, foster innovation, strengthen competitiveness and create quality jobs.The event comes at a time of deepening cooperation between Jordan and the EU under the Strategic and Comprehensive Partnership launched in January 2025, which is supported by a €3 billion financial and investment package for the period 2025–2027.The Conference will bring together senior government representatives, investors, financial institutions, business leaders and entrepreneurs from Jordan, the EU and beyond. Discussions will focus on investment opportunities across key sectors, including renewable energy, clean technologies, digital economy, manufacturing, logistics and infrastructure, while highlighting Jordan's role as a stable and reliable partner in the region. Throughout the programme, selected flagship projects that demonstrate the strength of the EU-Jordan partnership, including the Aqaba–Amman Water Desalination and Conveyance Project and the Aqaba Digital Hub, will be showcased as key examples of Jordan’s potential as a regional gateway.Dr. Tareq Abu Ghazaleh, Minister of Investment of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, said: "Jordan’s Economic Modernization Vision creates a clear, long-term roadmap that aligns closely with EU priorities around sustainable growth, innovation, and regional stability. By strengthening regulatory frameworks, advancing high-value sectors, and improving the investment climate, it reinforces Jordan’s role as a trusted partner- giving European investors the confidence to scale their presence and commit to long-term investment.Today’s conference is a key milestone- it brings together leaders and investors to translate partnership into concrete opportunities, driving investment and strengthening cooperation across priority sectors.”European Commissioner for the Mediterranean, Dubravka Šuica, added: "Jordan is a key partner for the European Union and a vital bridge between Europe and the wider Middle East region. The Jordan-EU Investment Conference 2026 reflects our shared ambition to translate the Strategic and Comprehensive Partnership into tangible opportunities for businesses, investors and citizens. By bringing together the public and private sectors, we aim to unlock new investment, support innovation, create jobs and build sustainable prosperity through stronger economic ties and partnerships.

Iran and US to embark on two months of peace talks Friday

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 07:13:11 +0300

AFP- The United States and Iran are to launch talks on a final settlement to their conflict on Friday in Switzerland, officials said, as news that the Strait of Hormuz will reopen sent world oil prices tumbling.Negotiations over a final deal are to start immediately after a deal signing ceremony and continue during a 60-day window, leading to decisions on the fate of Iran’s nuclear program and a plan for the lifting of international economic sanctions.Optimism that the war triggered by the February 28 US-Israeli strikes on Tehran might be coming to an end was dented, however, by fresh Israeli strikes on south Lebanon.Iran’s central military command, Khatam Al-Anbiya, warned that Israel should “await a harsh response” to the strikes, which Lebanon’s state news agency said targeted two vehicles in the town of Mayfadoun and another in nearby Shukeen, near the town of Nabatieh in southern Lebanon, killing four.The Israeli military said it conducted a strike after it “identified a suspicious vehicle” near where its soldiers were operating and that its forces intercepted several rockets and carried out an air strike against a launcher.

Iran says deal to end war requires Israel to withdraw from LebanonIran’s top diplomat said Tuesday that the tentative deal to end the war would require Israel to withdraw from Lebanon — a condition Israel has already rejected and that could sink the agreement, leading to the resumption of all-out war.The deal has not been made public, and officials have sometimes offered contradictory interpretations of what is in it. While Israel is not party to the agreement, it is part of the war after joining the US in launching strikes on Iran on Feb. 28. Israel has also fought the Iran-backed Hezbollah militant group in Lebanon and seized large swaths of that country.Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Israel’s continued occupation of southern Lebanon would violate the deal.“Without the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the territories they occupied during this war, the war has not fully come to an end,” Araghchi said.A US official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss outlines of the agreement, has said the deal does not call for an Israeli withdrawal. And Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Monday that Israel would remain in Lebanon “as long as necessary.”Swiss signingFriday’s signing ceremony will take place at Switzerland’s mountainside Burgenstock resort, perched high above Lake Lucerne, the Swiss foreign ministry said.According to a senior US official, speaking on condition of anonymity, the framework agreement has already been signed electronically by US President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, Iran’s deputy foreign minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi and top negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf.“Likely on Friday... a new round of negotiations between Iran and the United States to reach a final agreement will begin,” Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said. “In the final agreement, decisions will be made on the nuclear issues and the lifting of sanctions.”Ghalibaf will attend the signing and the US side will be represented by Vance, who said Trump might also attend.The developments came after Trump said an Iranian blockade on the crucial Hormuz strait oil and gas route would be fully lifted by Friday, in a major boost to the global economy.“Ships are starting to move, many loaded up with Oil, out of the Strait of Hormuz,” Trump said Monday.Optimism over the reopening of Hormuz has sent the price of the international benchmark Brent North Sea crude tumbling under $79 a barrel, a three-month low. The main US oil contract, West Texas Intermediate, fell 5.9 percent to under $76 a barrel.The US had, in retaliation for Iran’s action, imposed its own blockade on Iranian ports. But Iranian state television said Iranian tankers had resumed shipping following the deal, as Takht-Ravanchi said the US blockade “has been lifted prior to the formal signing.”Sporadic episodes of violence since an April ceasefire had threatened a deal, but weeks of indirect negotiations mediated by Pakistan and Qatar built momentum for an interim deal.Yet a comprehensive agreement on Iran’s nuclear ambitions and Western sanctions remains elusive.‘Broken commitments’The US and Israel are pressing to strip Iran of its stockpile of highly enriched uranium, said to have been buried by US strikes last year, while Iran has insisted on its right to enrichment.The agreed framework has however paved the way for talks on those key disputes.Asked at the G7 in France when the text would be released, Trump said: “It’s a very powerful document, and I want it to be released. So probably pretty soon.”Iran’s ultraconservative newspaper Vatan-e Emrooz praised the agreement as a “Trump surrender document.”But Araghchi struck a more cautious note.“We have a history of broken commitments... we have a history of agreements being torn up. All of this is present in our minds,” he said.In a flurry of interviews to talk up the deal, Vance said no US taxpayer money would go to Iran under the deal, as Iranian media reported $12 billion of frozen assets would be released.Vance told NBC that nuclear inspectors would also be allowed to enter Iran.Analysts have warned that the parallel conflict in Lebanon between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah presents the biggest threat to the diplomatic thaw.Lebanon was pulled into the war in March when Hezbollah launched rockets at Israel after the killing of Iran’s supreme leader, prompting Israeli strikes and a ground invasion.That theater of the conflict could be “the biggest ultimate spoiler” of the coming negotiations, said Ross Harrison, a senior fellow at the Middle East Institute.

Royal Decree appoints Abu Shahout as IEC board member

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 20:23:08 +0300

News EditorJordan Daily - A Royal Decree has been issued, appointing Bushra Abu Shahout as a member of the Independent Election Commission’s board of commissioners, as of 11 June 2026.Abu Shahout brings extensive experience in electoral governance, institutional development and public policy to her new role. She previously served as Director of Policies and Institutional Development at Jordan's Independent Election Commission (IEC), where she contributed to electoral reform initiatives, strategic planning and efforts to strengthen the commission's institutional framework. Her work focused on enhancing electoral processes, developing policies and fostering cooperation with national and international stakeholders.More recently, Abu Shahout served as Assistant Representative for Gender-Responsive Governance at UN Women Jordan, leading programmes aimed at advancing women's political participation and inclusive governance. Throughout her career, she has worked closely with government institutions, civil society organizations and international partners on democratic governance, electoral integrity and capacity-building initiatives, establishing herself as a specialist in electoral affairs and political reform.

Austria vs Jordan: A tactical clash between pressure and patience at the World Cup

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 12:42:55 +0300

Dr. Fadi MaayahCurtin UniversityJordan Daily - At first glance, Austria versus Jordan may appear to be a straightforward contest between a European side and an Asian World Cup debutant. However, a deeper tactical analysis reveals something far more compelling. This is a clash between two contrasting football philosophies - one built on relentless pressure and tempo, and the other on discipline, structure and calculated transition.Austria arrive at the World Cup as one of the most tactically defined teams in Europe. Under the influence of Ralf Rangnick, they have developed a clear identity centred on high pressing, aggressive midfield play, and rapid vertical transitions. Their 4-2-3-1 system is not just a formation, but a framework for constant pressure. Austria aim to compress space, force errors, and attack before opponents can reorganise. Jordan, by contrast, represent one of the most disciplined and tactically organised emerging teams in international football. Their structure is built around compact defending, often shifting from 3-4-3 into a 5-4-1 block without the ball, and exploiting moments in transition. Rather than controlling possession, Jordan prioritise efficiency — waiting for the right moment to attack with speed and precision. In this context, the match becomes a fascinating battle between two opposing approaches to space and risk management. Austria want to make the game fast, chaotic and physically demanding. Jordan, on the other hand, want to slow it down, remain compact, and strike only when opportunities emerge.The key tactical battle will emerge in the moments immediately after possession is lost. Austria are built around counter-pressing, aiming to win the ball back within seconds. Their entire structure is designed to keep distances short and support quick ball recovery in advanced areas. Jordan, however, thrive in precisely these moments. Under the guidance of Moroccan – Jordanian coach Jamal Al Sallami, a tactically astute and high-quality operator, the team demonstrates clear strategic discipline in transitions. When they regain possession, their immediate priority is to progress the ball forward with speed and intent, often through wide channels or direct vertical passes. If they can successfully bypass Austria’s first wave of pressure, they are well positioned to exploit the space behind the midfield line, particularly in the channels left exposed by Austria’s advancing full-backs.This creates a critical tipping point in the game. If Austria dominate second balls and maintain pressing intensity, they will control territory and force Jordan into prolonged defensive phases. But if Jordan can escape the initial press even a few times, they have the potential to create high-quality chances against a temporarily unbalanced defensive structure.Another key area of interest lies in the wide channels. Austria’s attacking structure often creates central overloads, which naturally opens space for full-backs to advance into attacking positions. This can stretch opposition defences and create crossing opportunities. Yet Jordan are structurally prepared for this. Their use of wing-backs within a back five allows them to defend width effectively while maintaining central compactness. This forces opponents into lower-percentage wide deliveries rather than central penetrations. As a result, Austria may find space in wide areas, but converting that into clear scoring chances will depend on the speed and quality of their final action.From a performance perspective, Austria’s biggest strength — their intensity — is also their greatest risk. High pressing requires synchronisation and energy. When executed well, it suffocates opponents. When broken, it leaves space. Against a team like Jordan, who are comfortable under pressure and effective in transition, this risk becomes more pronounced. Jordan’s challenge, however, lies in sustaining defensive concentration. Austria’s ability to recycle pressure and maintain territorial dominance means Jordan may spend extended periods without the ball. In such scenarios, fatigue, decision-making under pressure, and finishing efficiency become critical factors.Ultimately, this match is not simply about technical quality, but about which tactical model prevails. Austria will attempt to impose rhythm through pressing and intensity. Jordan will resist, absorb, and wait for the decisive moment.In modern World Cup football, where fine margins define outcomes, this encounter highlights an enduring truth: there is more than one way to compete at the highest level. Whether through pressure or patience, structure or intensity, the result will depend on who controls the key moments when the game transitions from order to chaos.

Jerash Festival to host 207 events in landmark 40th edition

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 12:25:29 +0300

News EditorJordan Daily - Jerash Festival for Culture and Arts will celebrate its 40th edition this year with a diverse programme of cultural and artistic events aimed at enhancing the visitor experience and reinforcing the festival's regional and international standing, its chief executive officer said.Yazan Al Khadiri, CEO of the Jerash Festival, highlighted in a televised interview the festival's role as a platform for leading artists, poets and performers since its establishment in 1980."We rely on this great legacy as we prepare for the 40th edition," Al Khadiri noted.He said improving the visitor experience and strengthening the international profile of both Jerash and Jordan are among the festival's main objectives this year.Al Khadiri described the festival as a comprehensive cultural, artistic and national project that extends beyond music performances. The 2026 programme will feature 207 events, including 95 cultural activities, some of which will be hosted at the Royal Cultural Center in Amman and others in the ancient city of Jerash."This reflects the richness of the cultural programme, not just the artistic programme," he said.While performances at Jerash's Southern Theatre have traditionally attracted the most media attention, organizers have sought to broaden the festival's focus by expanding cultural programming and giving greater visibility to literature, poetry, visual arts, theatre and dance.According to Al Khadiri, Jordanian participation will account for about 151 of the festival's activities, with roughly 300 Jordanian artists taking part."Jerash is a platform to unleash the creativity and energy of our young people and artists, of whom we are very proud," he said.He added that while more than 60% of the programme highlights Jordanian talent, the festival will also feature a strong Arab and international presence, reflecting its position as one of the region's leading cultural events.

Abdali Boulevard launches public events, match screenings in support of Jordan national team

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 08:30:55 +0300

Jordan Daily - Abdali Boulevard has launched a series of interactive and promotional activities along its pedestrian avenue to celebrate Jordan's historic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, underscoring its support for the national football team and sharing the milestone with fans across the kingdom.The activities feature a range of football-themed interactive and entertainment experiences inspired by the World Cup atmosphere, catering to both children and adults. Public spaces throughout the Boulevard have also been decorated with Jordanian flags and motivational messages in support of the national team, known as the Nashama.As part of the celebrations, Abdali Boulevard has partnered with the Jordan Football Association to make official national team merchandise available at The Boulevard's Corner, a dedicated space that hosts community engagement and corporate social responsibility initiatives.The Boulevard has also allocated a giant screen to broadcast Jordan's national team matches, beginning with its first fixture on Wednesday, June 17. The screenings are expected to create a vibrant fan atmosphere, allowing visitors to follow the Nashama's World Cup journey and celebrate the country's landmark qualification achievement.

Trump may release US-Iran agreement before Friday, Vance says

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 08:00:31 +0300

Reuters -US Vice President JD Vance told Fox News on ‌Monday ‌that US ‌President ⁠Donald Trump may decide to ⁠release Washington’s agreement with ⁠Tehran before Friday.The ‌agreement, ‌which was ‌electronically ‌signed by leaders in the US ‌and Iran, is expected ⁠to ⁠be signed in person on Friday.Trump on Monday said an agreement with Iran has been signed and that the text of the deal would be released sometime after a formal signing on Friday, adding that the Strait of Hormuz would also be fully open.Speaking alongside ‌French President ‌Emmanuel Macron ahead of this ‌week’s ⁠G7 meeting, Trump ⁠said he did not know if he would attend the Friday ceremony expected in Geneva, but that Vice President Vance would be there.“The deal’s all signed. ⁠And the strait is ‌already partially opened, ‌as you know,” Trump told reporters shortly ‌after arriving in Evian, France.“On Friday, ‌it’ll be completely open.”Vance earlier on Monday said the agreement had been signed digitally on Sunday and that no funds ‌were released.Asked when the text of the memorandum of ⁠understanding ⁠would be made public, Trump said: “Probably pretty soon. I would say after sometime after Friday … I think sometime in the very near future.”Trump said any sanctions relief for Tehran was “really a behavioral thing. If they do what they’re supposed to do, that starts taking effect.”Earlier on Monday, US Vice President JD Vance said that no funds would be released to Iran in exchange for signing an agreement to halt the war and open the Strait of Hormuz and that text of the framework deal would be shared this week.In an interview on ABC’s “Good Morning America” program, Vance said signing the memorandum of understanding with Iran would not trigger the release of frozen assets.Vance said the agreement was already signed digitally on Sunday and no funds were released.“There’s been no money released, and that won’t change,” ‌he said.Vance said ‌Iran would receive money only if it took verified steps ‌to ⁠eliminate its stockpile ⁠of highly enriched uranium.“If we see the Iranians making, for example, taking action to eliminate their stockpile of enriched material, then yes, sanctions relief will follow. If we see the Iranians taking action to allow the kind of verification regime that we need to see to know that they’re not going to build a nuclear weapon, yes, sanctions relief will follow,” he said.“If they don’t ⁠do the right things, if they don’t allow the verification ‌regime, they’re never going to have ‌the money to rebuild their nuclear program to begin with.”In an interview on CNBC on ‌Monday, Vance also said the United States expects the economically vital waterway ‌would be open without tolls.“Our expectation is that the Strait is going to be opened in a toll-free way for the long-term,” he said.“That’s the sort of thing that we’re going to figure out in these technical negotiations. You know that there ‌are a lot of very important details to figure out that we’re actually going to sit at the table ⁠and discuss together ⁠and figure out a path forward.”The US and Iran said they had agreed terms to end their war and reopen the strait, news that brought relief to markets, although the pact may hinge on an end to hostilities in Lebanon and defers talks on Tehran’s nuclear program.While still a framework, the deal marked the biggest breakthrough toward resolving the conflict that has killed thousands and upended energy markets since it began with joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran in February.Vance told CNBC that Iran’s foreign minister and House speaker will represent Iran at the signing in Switzerland on Friday and many details of the deal are still to be sorted out.

From Serbia to Jordan, a new partnership begins; Migrate signs agreement to launch Mokrogoria in Jordan

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 16:03:02 +0300

Jordan Daily - Migrate announced the signing of an agreement to bring Mokrogoria, a global network of independent business academies, to Jordan. The initiative marks a strategic step toward introducing a new, human-centered approach to business education, designed to support professionals, leaders, and organizations in achieving real, measurable growth.The agreement was signed by Mr. Nader Nemeh, Chairman of Migrate, and Srdjan Janicijevic, Founder of Mokrogoria, marking the official launch of Mokrogoria’s presence in the Jordanian market and the Levant region.Mokrogoria operates as a global network of locally rooted business academies, built around the core needs that drive business and leadership growth, offering programs, advisory, and community-driven experiences tailored to local markets while aligned with international standards.Commenting on this milestone, Mr. Nader Nemeh, Chairman of Migrate, stated:“Through this partnership, we are introducing a differentiated model of business education that is globally connected, locally relevant, and built around real needs and practical application. We believe Mokrogoria will offer strong value to professionals, entrepreneurs, and organizations seeking growth and long-term success. With Jordan's strong entrepreneurial spirit and evolving business landscape, we see a significant opportunity to contribute to the development of future leaders and growth-oriented organizations.From Mokrogoria’s side, Srdjan Janicijevic, Founder of Mokrogoria, commented:“We are pleased to partner with Migrate to bring Mokrogoria to Jordan. This collaboration reflects our commitment to expanding a model that is built around people, real challenges, and growth. Mokrogoria is built as a global platform of locally rooted academies. Each new market is a co-creation, shaped by local leaders, culture, and business realities, while connected to a wider international network. Starting this next chapter in Jordan and the Middle East brings me particular satisfaction because of the region’s strong entrepreneurial spirit.”In turn, Mr. Hani Farah, Managing Director- Mokrogoria Jordan, added: “Mokrogoria Jordan will be built with local insight, local leadership, and a deep understanding of the needs of our business community. Our goal is simple; to grow people who grow businesses. By creating a place where people come not only to learn, but to gain clarity, transform, build connections, and grow what truly matters.”The launch of Mokrogoria in Jordan reflects a growing demand for more relevant, experience-driven learning models that support leadership, business growth, and professional development in an evolving economic landscape.Migrate is a leading Jordanian business services company that supports organizations across various sectors in establishing and operating their businesses with reduced cost and risk. The company specializes in designing, implementing, and managing integrated business solutions and ecosystems across Jordan and the wider region.

Jordan welcomes U.S.-Iran agreement to end military operations, start talks

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 12:36:09 +0300

Jordan Daily - Jordan on Monday welcomed an agreement between the United States and Iran to end military operations and begin detailed negotiations aimed at reaching a permanent deal, calling it an important step toward restoring regional and international security and stability.In a statement, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates praised efforts by Pakistan, Qatar and other countries that helped secure the agreement, as well as the positive response from Washington and Tehran.The ministry stressed the importance of a lasting agreement that safeguards regional security, respects state sovereignty and non-interference principles, and restores security and freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.Jordan reiterated its support for resolving disputes through diplomacy in line with international law and the U.N. Charter.

Al-Kindi Hospital congratulates King Abdullah II and Crown Prince on Hijri New Year

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 11:29:47 +0300

Jordan Daily - Chairman of the Board of Directors of Al-Kindi Hospital, Dr. Mohammad Khrais, along with the hospital’s staff, extended heartfelt congratulations to His Majesty King Abdullah II and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II on the occasion of the Hijri New Year 1448 AH.They prayed for the continued health and prosperity of the Hashemite leadership, the Royal Family, and Jordan, wishing them a blessed and successful year ahead.

Jordan needs 'factory reset' for tourism sector, strategist says

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 10:13:42 +0300

Business EditorJordan Daily - Jordan should undertake a comprehensive overhaul of its tourism sector and stop tying its fortunes to regional instability, economic and tourism development strategist Nedal Malo Alein said on Monday.Malo Alein argued, in an opinion article, seen by Jordan Daily that Jordan's tourism industry has repeatedly blamed regional political and security crises for downturns in visitor numbers, only to return to business as usual once conditions improve, without building safeguards against future shocks.He called for a "factory reset" of the country's tourism ecosystem, citing overlapping mandates among government bodies and fragmented industry representation as obstacles to long-term resilience.A key strategic mistake, he said, has been marketing Jordan as part of a broader Middle East tourism package, which causes the country to suffer whenever international travelers perceive the region as unstable.Instead, Jordan should promote itself as an independent destination and a regional hub of safety and stability, leveraging its longstanding role as a refuge for diplomats, foreign nationals and international organizations during regional crises.Malo Alein also urged policymakers to rethink tourism marketing, arguing that cultural events, concerts and promotional campaigns alone do not constitute a coherent global tourism strategy.He called for a national branding approach centered on a clear tourism identity, digital transformation, technological modernization and data-driven planning.Jordan's tourism sector, he said, must shift from reacting to crises to anticipating them, building a resilient and institutionally driven model capable of withstanding future regional disruptions.

Jordan, Syria agree to deepen economic ties, expand transport cooperation

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 06:33:36 +0300

News EditorJordan Daily - Jordan and Syria agreed to deepen economic integration, expand transport cooperation and improve coordination on customs and water management during a high-level meeting in Damascus on Sunday.Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi and Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani reviewed progress on agreements reached at the second Jordanian-Syrian Higher Coordination Council meeting held in Amman in April.The two sides welcomed the implementation of a new trade exchange mechanism and discussed measures to facilitate the movement of trucks and boost bilateral and transit trade. They also reviewed cooperation in air, land, sea and rail transport.In the water sector, officials agreed to advance joint projects, including a study to develop the Yarmouk basin and the launch of a joint operational water platform.During the visit, the two countries signed an air services agreement aimed at strengthening aviation links.Safadi and Shaibani also discussed regional developments and agreed to hold the third session of the Higher Coordination Council in Damascus in October.Jordan reiterated its support for Syria’s reconstruction and recovery efforts, while both sides called for full implementation of a roadmap to stabilize southern Syria and rejected any partition or separatist plans. They also condemned Israeli aggression in Syria, calling for an immediate withdrawal to the lines set out in the 1974 disengagement agreement.

Deal is reached to end Iran war and Trump orders stop to US naval blockade

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 05:59:09 +0300

Agencies - The United States and Iran have reached an agreement to end the war and open the Strait of Hormuz, offering relief to the global economy more than three months since fighting began.

Details of the deal were not immediately available. Key mediator Pakistan said the signing will be Friday in Switzerland. Key issues like Iran’s nuclear program are expected to be addressed later.

US President Donald Trump confirmed a deal had been reached and said he had authorized an end to the US naval blockade of Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz, imposed in retaliation for Iran’s grip on the crucial waterway.

“Congratulations to all!” Trump wrote on social media, adding: “I hereby fully authorize the toll free opening of the Strait of Hormuz, and, simultaneously herewith, authorize the immediate removal of the United States Naval blockade.”The US previously said it would ease its blockade of Iranian ports as the strait reopens, and would agree to relax sanctions to allow Iran to sell more of its oil and strengthen its battered economy.

Iran’s deputy foreign minister, Kazem Gharibabadi, confirmed the agreement on state television but said Iran would not start implementing it until it was signed on Friday. He said the deal followed over 14 hours of talks in Tehran with a representative from Qatar, another mediator.

Iranian state TV showed a banner asserting: “US was forced to sign an agreement to end the war.”

Pakistan first announced the deal after a day in which Israel, sidelined from the negotiations, attacked Beirut’s southern suburbs while pursuing the Iranian-backed Hezbollah. The attacks posed a threat to completing the negotiations.

“Both sides have declared the immediate and permanent termination of military operations on all fronts, including in Lebanon,” Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said, adding that mediators this week will facilitate meetings to “lay the foundation for the technical talks.”Nuclear accord and saving Israel

President Donald Trump told the New York Times on Sunday if Iran failed to reach a final nuclear accord with the US, he ‌would restart ‌military ⁠attacks on Tehran or ⁠make the US “the guardian of the Middle East” in return for ⁠20 percent of the ‌region’s ‌revenues.

Trump told the ‌Times in an ‌interview the agreement he reached with Iran would ultimately assure ‌that the Strait of Hormuz is “permanently ⁠toll ⁠free” and argued that, despite the objections of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel, he had saved Israel from nuclear obliteration. The deal came under criticism even in the final hours

Broader negotiations on outstanding issues like Iran’s nuclear program would continue over the next 60 days, two senior Pakistani officials said earlier Sunday, speaking on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the matter publicly. If the sides fail to reach a resolution within that time, the timeline could be extended.

The deal likely returns the region to a status that existed before the war, but with thousands of people dead and Iran wielding a new source of negotiating pressure with its ability to influence shipping in the strait. The waterway is crucial to significant shipments of oil, natural gas and related products like fertilizer, and its effective closure rocked the global economy.

Of the stated targets by the US and Israel when they launched the war on Feb. 28 with strikes that killed Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Tehran still has a missile program, support for armed proxies in the region like Hezbollah and a stockpile of highly enriched uranium for its nuclear program.

Khamenei’s son is now supreme leader, though he has not been seen in the public since the war began. His approval was needed for Iran to sign off on the deal.

Iran wanted a ceasefire deal to include the fighting in Lebanon, where Israel has pushed its invasion deeper than at any point in over a quarter-century as it targets Hezbollah. Tehran also has sought the release of billions of dollars in frozen funds.

The emerging deal had been sharply criticized by Israel’s government and by critics in Trump’s own Republican Party. Some said it did not improve on the terms of the 2015 Iran nuclear deal that Trump withdrew the US from during his first term and still describes as “bad.”

There was also apparent friction inside Iran in the hours before the announcement, as the government earlier Sunday warned that any division at home over the deal weakens its negotiating position. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian urged national unity and called it a “disgrace” when someone stands before parliament and calls anyone who negotiates a traitor.

The central question of Iran’s nuclear program remains

After the war began, Iran attacked Israel and several Arab Gulf nations with missiles and drones. A ceasefire was reached on April 7. Ten days later, the US military imposed its blockade. A historic face-to-face meeting between Vice President JD Vance and Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf ended without success.

Throughout negotiations, Trump alternatively threatened to destroy Iranian infrastructure, even its civilization, and praised the relationship with Iran as “more professional” as his administration sought an exit from the war with midterm US elections coming later this year.

Iran’s government, with its own tensions around hard-liners as it scrambled to replace several top officials killed in the war, repeatedly expressed wariness of negotiations after rounds of talks last year and early this year ended with US and Israeli attacks.

Tehran has emphasized that it wanted a deal to focus on ending the war, with discussions put off until later on its nuclear program — the issue at the center of it all.

Iran has 440.9 kilograms (972 pounds) of uranium that is enriched up to 60 percent purity, a short, technical step from weapons-grade levels of 90 percent, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Iran has long maintained its nuclear program is peaceful and has not publicly committed to giving up the enriched uranium, which is believed to be buried under three nuclear sites that were badly damaged by US strikes last year.

At times, the US had sought the removal of the enriched uranium from Iran as part of a deal. Russia has offered to take it. At other times, Trump said he wanted the uranium destroyed.

Jerash Festival to showcase traditional Jordanian handicrafts from across Kingdom

Sun, 14 Jun 2026 21:48:14 +0300

News EditorJordan Daily - Jordan's annual Jerash Festival will feature expanded participation from local communities this year, including exhibitions of traditional handicrafts and cultural products from across the kingdom, the festival's chief executive officer said.Yazan Al Khadiri, CEO of the Jerash Festival, noted the event would feature a dedicated exhibition highlighting handicraft products created by residents of Jerash and other governorates, celebrating traditional arts that form part of Jordan's cultural heritage."We are planning broad participation from local communities, both from the city and the governorates," Al Khadiri said in an interview with Jordan Television, seen by Jordan Daily.He added women would play a prominent role in the exhibition, including participants from Jerash who have become increasingly active in preserving and promoting traditional crafts.Al Khadiri said he recently met representatives of local communities to hear their views and suggestions regarding the festival."We listened to their remarks and, God willing, we will take them into consideration," he said.A key objective this year, according to Al Khadiri, is to ensure diversity among the products on display and avoid duplication among exhibitors."The most important thing is that there will be no repetition in the presentation of products," he said, adding that organizers are working to ensure a variety of offerings so that all participants can benefit from the exhibition.The Jerash Festival for Culture and Arts, Jordan's largest cultural event, is held annually in the historic city of Jerash and attracts local, regional and international visitors through a program of artistic, cultural and heritage activities.

Irbid Electricity recognizes top-performing staff, reinforces commitment to excellence

Sun, 14 Jun 2026 19:51:30 +0300

Jordan Daily - Engineer Bashar Al-Tamimi, General Manager of the Irbid District Electricity Co. Ltd. (IDECO), honored a group of employees for their outstanding performance in 2025, highlighting the company's commitment to fostering excellence and recognizing high-achieving staff.Speaking during a recognition ceremony, Al-Tamimi said the award reflects the company's appreciation for employees who have demonstrated exceptional professionalism, dedication, and commitment to their responsibilities."The honored employees represent a model of perseverance, loyalty, and institutional belonging," Al-Tamimi said , adding that their efforts have contributed to the company's development and helped improve the quality of services provided to citizens.He added the company would continue implementing programs aimed at rewarding and motivating distinguished employees, emphasizing that recognition initiatives would remain an integral part of the company's strategy to encourage excellence and support institutional goals.Al-Tamimi noted that while the awards are symbolic, they carry significant meaning for the company's management, which views human capital as its most valuable asset. He reaffirmed the company's commitment to supporting employees through professional development opportunities and by providing an environment that enables them to enhance their skills and capabilities.He also stressed that Irbid District Electricity Company, as a leading national institution, remains committed to serving citizens and contributing to Jordan's modernization and development efforts under the Hashemite leadership, relying on the competence and dedication of its workforce.The ceremony concluded with the presentation of certificates of appreciation and commemorative shields to the honored employees in an atmosphere marked by pride and recognition of achievement, underscoring the company's ongoing efforts to promote a culture of excellence and continuous institutional improvement.

Al Aman Fund, NSS partner to support orphaned youth

Sun, 14 Jun 2026 16:33:06 +0300

Jordan Daily -Al Aman Fund for the Future of Orphans has signed a strategic partnership agreement with Network Solutions & Services (NSS), aimed at supporting the education and livelihood needs for a number of orphaned youth benefiting from the Fund’s programs.This partnership reflects NSS’s belief in Al Aman Fund’s mission and the importance of supporting and empowering orphaned youth to continue their educational journey, the Fund said in a statement received by Jordan Daily.The partnership also highlights NSS’s growing role in community development, alongside its position as a leading technology company specializing in advanced infrastructure solutions, cybersecurity, and innovative technical services.During the signing ceremony, Eng. Musab Mheidat, General Manager of Network Solutions & Services (NSS), expressed his pride in this partnership, stating: “We are proud to partner with Al Aman Fund for the Future of Orphans as part of our national duty and corporate social responsibility toward orphaned youth. This partnership reflects our commitment to supporting and empowering orphaned youth, and our belief that investing in their lives is an investment in Jordan’s future and a key pillar in building a brighter, more sustainable nation.”Noor Al Homoud, Al Aman Fund Director expressed her appreciation for the partnership, stating: “This partnership reflects the growing commitment of leading companies in Jordan to supporting orphaned youth benefiting from Al Aman Fund. This support contributes to enabling a number of our youth to continue their education, while providing the livelihood support needed to strengthen their journey toward independence and self-reliance.”Since its establishment in 2006, Al Aman Fund has continued to build strategic partnerships across various sectors, contributing to expanding the impact of its programs that support orphaned youth after the age of 18. Through these partnerships, the Fund continues to provide educational opportunities, livelihood and psychosocial support, and capacity-building programs, empowering youth to move forward with confidence toward a more independent and stable life.Established two decades ago as a non-profit organization by Her Majesty Queen Rania Al Abdullah, Al-Aman Fund for the Future of Orphans aims to empower orphaned youth after they graduate from care homes at the age of 18 by supporting them to continue their education at universities, colleges, or vocational training centers.

Ministry of Education, Markazia Group sign agreement to expand vocational training

Sun, 14 Jun 2026 13:10:23 +0300

News EditorJordan Daily - Ministry of Education and Markazia Group, the exclusive distributor of Toyota vehicles in the kingdom, have signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at strengthening vocational and technical education through expanded workplace training opportunities for students.The agreement, signed between the Directorate of Education for Russeifa District and Markazia Group, will support the implementation of Work-Based Learning (WBL) programs under the BTEC vocational education pathway, Markazia Group said in a statement.The memorandum was signed by Mousa Al-Khalayleh, Director of Educational Affairs at the Russeifa Education Directorate, and Yousef Al-Hassan, Executive Director of Human Resources at Markazia Group.The initiative forms part of the Ministry of Education's broader efforts to enhance educational outcomes, modernize vocational training programs and strengthen partnerships with the private sector.Ahmad Al-Shdeifat, Director of Education for Russeifa, said the agreement aligns with local and international educational standards and seeks to develop students' skills, creativity and innovation through practical learning experiences.Under the agreement, students enrolled in the BTEC vocational track will receive hands-on field training within Markazia Group's operations, enabling them to gain practical industry experience and workplace skills.Markazia Group said the collaboration aims to bridge the gap between education and industry by equipping students with the competencies needed for future employment opportunities.