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US official: We expect a deal soon between Iran and Oman on Strait of Hormuz

Sat, 08 Aug 2026 07:03:25 +0300

Reuters - A US official on Friday reported progress between Iran and Oman that could soon reopen the Strait of Hormuz, potentially restoring oil exports that have been disrupted by the five-month-old US war with Iran.The official, who declined to be identified, said Washington soon anticipated an agreement between the two countries, which sit on either side of the strait, so that normal oil traffic could resume.

A deal between Iran and Oman over control of the strategic waterway is seen as crucial to a wider peace agreement.

“There is progress between Oman and Iran on the strait, and we expect a deal soon,” the US official told Reuters on Friday. “Once the deal is announced to restore commercial shipping without impediments, the United States will lift the blockade of Iranian ports.”

“As always, US actions will continue to be performance-based and tied to Iran’s implementation of its commitments,” the official said.Before the US and Israel launched the ‌war on Iran ‌on February 28, about one out of every five barrels of oil consumed worldwide transited ‌the ⁠strait, but Iran ⁠has used the hostilities to justify charging a toll on oil tankers and firing on ships that attempt to cross the strait without permission.

That disruption in oil shipments has caused energy prices to surge and fueled inflation.

In recent weeks, the Trump administration has repeatedly signaled that a deal to open the strait could be close, only to have Iran deny that talks are under way. It was unclear whether the latest flurry of negotiations would yield a more lasting arrangement.

Iranian strikes on Strait of Hormuz shipping have been coupled with increased attacks by its Yemen-based allies, the Houthis, who have targeted ships at another oil chokepoint on the other side of the Arabian ⁠Peninsula between the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.New security pactAlarmed at a regional conflagration ‌that has brought Iranian missile fire onto Gulf oil exporters, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan ‌and Turkiye signed a joint defense agreement in Makkah on Friday. The pact among three US allies with majority Sunni Muslim populations is intended to ‌strengthen collective deterrence against aggression and stipulates that an armed attack against any of the three would be regarded as ‌an attack on all, the countries said in a statement.

Turkiye said the agreement was not aimed at any specific country and was purely defensive. But it comes at a time of heightened tensions with Shiite-majority Iran.

Meanwhile, the US has been trying to broker an end to fighting on another front of the war between Israel and Iranian-backed Shiite group Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. A Lebanese official said on Friday that Lebanon ‌and Israel agreed on a shortlist of countries that could send troops to verify the disarmament of Hezbollah under a US-brokered agreement. The United States would pick countries from the ⁠list.Iran president defends diplomacyWashington and ⁠Tehran have not engaged in direct high-level talks since US Vice President JD Vance met Iranian officials in Switzerland in June, shortly after the two sides reached a ceasefire agreement. That short-lived June 17 memorandum of understanding established terms for resuming Strait of Hormuz oil shipping and led to a ceasefire.Amid internal opposition to the deal in the US and Iran, hostilities resumed on July 7, only to be put on hold again. The US military’s Central Command has not reported any strikes on Iran since July 29.

Analysts have said signs of fissures between Iran’s civilian president, Masoud Pezeshkian, and the other power centers in Iran, notably Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, may be complicating peace efforts.

In an interview with state television broadcast on Friday, Pezeshkian defended his government’s policies against hard-liners who have opposed negotiations with the United States. He insisted that most senior military commanders supported talks toward a deal to stop the fighting.

“America’s biggest enemy is China, why don’t they fight? China is doing its own thing and is getting stronger day by day. When we can get our rights through dialogue, why not do it?” he said.

300 children killed in Gaza in 300 days, UNICEF says

Fri, 07 Aug 2026 08:20:43 +0300

Jordan Daily - At least 300 children have been killed in Gaza over the past 300 days, the UN Children’s Fund said on Thursday, an average of one a day as civilians in the territory continue to face intense military strikes including shelling, gunfire and naval fire.Hundreds more children were reportedly injured during the same period, the fund added.The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs said children in Gaza continued to live in difficult conditions that include overcrowded shelters and limited access to safe water and healthcare.In the West Bank, settler attacks and Israeli military operations continue to affect the homes and livelihoods of Palestinians, OCHA warned.Israeli settlers reportedly set fire to homes overnight in the Palestinian community of Tuba, in the Masafer Yatta area of Hebron, displacing three families, including 14 children, who sought safety with relatives or neighbors.Several people were injured, including two children, OCHA said, and a solar power system and 10 tonnes of animal feed were destroyed, along with other property.Between the start of the year and the end of July, OCHA documented more than 1,380 incidents involving Israeli settlers that resulted in casualties, property damage or both, an average of between six and seven a day across 250 Palestinian communities.More than 2,300 Palestinians were displaced during the same period as a result of settler attacks and related access restrictions, OCHA said. It reiterated that Palestinians across the occupied territories must be protected and perpetrators who target them must be held accountable.In Jerusalem Governorate, meanwhile, thousands of Palestinians in Qalandia Camp remained under closure conditions for a second straight day on Thursday after Israeli forces launched a major operation there. OCHA said humanitarian workers were unable to access the area safely, raising concerns about the safety of residents and their ability to obtain emergency care, access services and reach workplaces.

Hikma delivers a solid H1 performance and reiterates full year outlook

Thu, 06 Aug 2026 11:05:35 +0300

Press ReleaseJordan Daily - Hikma Pharmaceuticals PLC (‘Hikma’ or ‘Group’), the multinational pharmaceutical company, today reports its Interim Results for the six months ended 30 June 2026.The Group reported revenue growth of 4% (3% in constant currency) to $1.728 billion (compared to $1.658 billion in H1 2025), reflecting strong growth in Branded and flat revenue for Injectables and Hikma Rx, in line with our expectations.Said Darwazah, Chief Executive Officer of Hikma, said: "I am pleased to report a solid first half, with performance in line with our expectations, including 9% growth in core operating profit, and I am encouraged by the positive momentum we are seeing across the organisation.We have made good progress against our strategic priorities in the first half of 2026, launching new products, strengthening our pipeline, signing new partnerships and optimising our manufacturing operations – all initiatives that will support long-term growth. We are building greater agility across the Group – directing capital and management attention to the areas where we have sustainable competitive advantage and where we can respond quickly to changing market dynamics, while maintaining the stability and quality that underpin our business.With strong fundamentals, disciplined execution and clear strategic priorities, we remain confident in our outlook and are reiterating our full-year guidance."In the first half of 2026, we continued executing our strategy and strengthening the foundations for long-term sustainable growth. Our $250 million share buyback is also progressing well. Regional leadership teams are driving commercial and operational enhancements across North America, Europe and MENA, ensuring we capture opportunities and deliver growth across the Group.
We have increased investment in R&D and in sales and marketing to support growth, delivering 48 product submissions as we strengthen our global pipeline to drive long-term growth. This is helping us add new opportunities to our pipeline including larger, more complex products that will support the future growth of the Group. We broadened our product portfolio through new launches and partnerships, with 43 product launches in the first half and continue to focus on strategic partnerships, including ten partnerships agreed in the MENA region.Hikma remains the largest pharmaceutical company in the MENA by sales , with a growing portfolio and reach. We maintained our position as the seventh largest supplier of generic medicines in the US , and the third largest supplier of generic injectable products by volume . In Europe, we are now the fourth largest supplier of injectables by sales , reflecting our expansion into new markets in recent years.We reiterate our expected group revenue for the full year to grow in the range of 2% to 4% in constant currency.Board appointmentHikma has announced the appointment of Tobias Hestler as an independent Non-Executive Director with effect from 7 August 2026. Tobias will also be appointed as a member of the Audit, Remuneration and Nomination and Governance Committees with effect from 7 August 2026. Tobias is a transformation and growth-oriented former FTSE 100 CFO, bringing extensive financial leadership, strategic thinking, M&A, capital markets, and healthcare sector experience to the Board. Tobias was Group Chief Financial Officer and Executive Director of Haleon PLC from its listing as an independent FTSE 100 company in 2022 until 2024, having previously served as CFO designate of Haleon and CFO of GSK PLC’s Consumer Healthcare Joint Ventures. Earlier in his career, Tobias held senior finance leadership roles at Novartis, including CFO of Sandoz, Novartis Consumer Health and Hexal AG.Our Branded business, which supplies branded generics and in-licensed patented products across the MENA region grew 15% and continued the strong performance of recent years, maintaining its leadership position and delivering impressive growth in both revenue and profit. We continued to sign new in-licencing partnerships and to launch products from previously signed agreements, for example Xcopri® (cenobamate tablets) in the UAE and Finjuve® (finasteride spray) in Egypt. Significantly, 14 of 15 new launches in our five major markets, from both R&D and partnerships, were first-to-market or first-generics.We had good demand for our products across our markets and also benefited from our ability to meet additional government demand as a result of the ongoing conflict in the region. To date, we have managed to absorb the limited cost impacts of the conflict, which have related primarily to shipping, insurance and fuel. Patients continue to need our medicines, and Hikma is there to meet that demand.This strong performance in MENA was once again driven by our key markets and led by Saudi Arabia, as well as our focus on medications used to treat chronic illnesses, with a particularly strong performance from diabetes and cardiovascular products, as well as improved leverage of our capacity to respond to opportunities.
Branded performance will be weighted to the first-half due to both timing of tenders and an increase in second half spend, as several of our annual marketing activities and events are now expected to take place later in the year than usual due to the regional conflict.
As a result of the strong first half performance, Branded revenue is now expected to grow at the top end of our previously communicated range of 6% to 8%.Our Injectables business, which manufactures and supplies generic injectable medicines to hospitals across North America, Europe and MENA, performed in line with our expectations.In the US, our base business has been steady, supported by good demand and five new product launches during the period.
In Europe and ROW, we delivered another period of good growth.This was driven by our broad portfolio, including eight product launches in the first half, and our local manufacturing facilities, which enable us to capitalise on opportunities across our key markets.
Our MENA business benefited from healthy demand for our base portfolio and biosimilars, as well as eight new launches, driving strong growth in the period. This performance was partially offset by supply disruptions experienced by one of our in-licencing partners.
Injectables revenue is expected to grow in the low single digits. Revenue and operating profit are expected to be weighted to the second half.Hikma Rx, which supplies oral and other non-injectable generic and specialty products to the US retail market, delivered strong operating profit growth in the first half. We launched several products, including both extended and immediate release tapentadol, and continued to make progress on our R&D programmes.We are experiencing price modest erosion across the portfolio, in line with recent history, and are offsetting this with recent launches and improved performance from several in-line products.Our CMO operations continue to build momentum. Higher contract manufacturing revenue, as well as revenue from more differentiated products, including renegotiated terms on sodium oxybate, are driving margin improvement and strengthening the portfolio mix.
Hikma Rx revenue is expected to be broadly flat. Revenue and operating profit are expected to be broadly evenly weighted.

Communication with Mojtaba ‘very difficult at moment’: Iran president

Thu, 06 Aug 2026 07:17:36 +0300

AFP - Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian said Wednesday that communication with the country’s supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, was very “difficult at the moment.”Khamenei, who was wounded in the US-Israeli strike that launched the Middle East war, has not appeared in public since succeeding his father, who was killed in the same attack.“It is very difficult to communicate with him at the moment, but in any case, his presence is a very great source of strength for us so that we can continue,” Pezeshkian said.The younger Khamenei has communicated through written statements but his low profile at a time when Iran is in conflict with the United States has led to speculation about his relations with other top officials.He notably did not appear at his father’s funeral ceremonies last month.Pezeshkian defended his leader, however, insisting he had been able to hold productive meetings with him and been met with “kindness and very sound logic.”“Unfortunately, the current situation allows some malicious people to describe him differently and to present a different image of him,” he said.

King calls for unified Arab-Muslim stance, joint effort to halt Israel’s unprecedented violations in Jerusalem

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 18:28:10 +0300

Jordan Daily - His Majesty King Abdullah II on Wednesday received a delegation from the Arab Ministerial Committee tasked with mobilising international action in response to illegal Israeli policies and actions in occupied Jerusalem. During the meeting, held at Al Husseiniya Palace and attended by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II, His Majesty called for a unified Arab and Muslim stance and a joint effort to halt Israel’s unprecedented violations in Jerusalem, particularly at Al Aqsa Mosque/Al Haram Al Sharif, underscoring that Jordan will continue to undertake its historic and legal role in safeguarding Muslim and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem, under the Hashemite Custodianship. The delegation included the foreign ministers of Tunisia, Algeria, Iraq, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Palestine, Egypt, and Morocco, as well as the secretary general of the League of Arab States, alongside foreign ministers and representatives from Indonesia, Pakistan, Türkiye, and Malaysia.The King warned of the danger of unrest in the region being exploited to create new facts on the ground in Jerusalem, noting the risk of the conflict spreading as a result of Israel’s continued escalation in the West Bank and attempts to annex land and expand settlements there.The meeting- attended by His Royal Highness Prince Ghazi bin Muhammad, His Majesty’s chief adviser for religious and cultural affairs and personal envoy- also covered the importance of committing to the implementation of all phases of the comprehensive peace plan in Gaza.Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi and Director of the Office of His Majesty Alaa Batayneh attended the meeting.

Jordanian author Roaa Jaber releases her new novel Jandal

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 12:31:58 +0300

Jordan Daily - Jordanian author Roaa Jaber has announced the release of her latest novel, Jandal, a thought-provoking literary thriller that blends political suspense, philosophy, and psychological drama while exploring timeless questions about freedom, power, and human nature.The novel follows Jandal, a young researcher and intellectual whose groundbreaking work is stolen and exploited by others. His pursuit of truth leads him into the heart of a secret global organization with deep influence over political, media, and economic institutions. As he uncovers hidden agendas and long-buried secrets, he is confronted with a profound moral question: Should humanity always have the freedom to choose, even at the risk of making mistakes, or is control the price of stability?Rather than presenting a conventional battle between good and evil, Jandal explores the conflict between two opposing philosophies: one that believes human freedom is an essential part of our identity, and another that argues people must be guided for the sake of order and security.According to the author, Jandal is more than a suspense novel. It is an invitation to reflect on the meaning of freedom, the responsibility that comes with choice, and the ethical boundaries of power.Through an engaging narrative and layered characters, the novel encourages readers to question the forces that shape society and the value of preserving individual free will.With Jandal, Roaa Jaber continues her literary journey by presenting fiction that combines compelling storytelling with philosophical depth, offering readers an experience that is both intellectually engaging and emotionally resonant.

Jordan, U.S. sign $354.6 mln four-year strategic assistance agreement

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 09:55:46 +0300

Jordan Daily - U.S. Ambassador to Jordan Jim Holtsnider and Minister of Planning and International Cooperation Zeina Toukan signed a four-year bilateral strategic objective agreement that obligates $354.6 million in U.S. foreign assistance to Jordan. This precedent-setting agreement marks a historic milestone in implementing President Trump’s America First foreign assistance agenda. It provides tangible benefits for U.S. firms, promotes U.S. technology and innovation, and ensures accountability to the American people. The agreement places new emphasis on trade and commercial opportunities that benefit American workers and businesses and ensures U.S. foreign assistance is more focused, flexible, and structured to track results and safeguard U.S. taxpayer dollars, the US Embassy in Amman said in a statement.This joint agreement also strengthens Jordan by enabling government ministries to conduct critical oversight and fully leverage the skills and ingenuity of the Jordanian people. The multi-year strategic objective document requires mutual agreement on clear objectives, meaningful Jordanian co-investment and ownership, and a defined pathway toward reduced reliance on U.S. support.

Iran, Oman make progress on deal to reopen Strait of Hormuz: officials

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 06:12:53 +0300

AP- Iran and the Gulf Arab state of Oman have made progress toward a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a potential breakthrough that could help wind down the war in the Middle East, regional officials said Tuesday.

Under the emerging agreement, ships would enter the Arabian Gulf through an Iranian-controlled route and exit through a route controlled by Oman, with service fees charged for providing security and preserving the maritime environment, two regional officials told The Associated Press.

They said negotiations are still underway and that the final agreement could take a different form. They said any deal would be linked to lifting the US blockade on Iran’s ports.The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the sensitive negotiations unfolding behind closed doors.

Any agreement formalizing Iran’s control of the strait would mark a significant strategic victory for Tehran. For that reason, the US could seek to block the deal by refusing to lift the blockade.The strait was an open international waterway before the US and Israel attacked Iran on Feb. 28.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei said the bilateral talks with Oman are focused on “establishing safe inbound and outbound shipping lanes,” routes that “uphold sovereign rights while also addressing the national security considerations of both Iran and Oman.”

“The final results of these negotiations will be announced once concluded,” he added, in remarks carried by Iran’s state-run IRNA news agency.

The talks emerged as US President Donald Trump is under mounting pressure to end an unpopular war that has driven up gas prices ahead of midterm elections and drawn down US supplies of some munitions.In recent days, he has again whipsawed between threatening massive strikes and voicing support for diplomatic efforts.

King reviews government measures to enhance energy, food security

Tue, 04 Aug 2026 16:22:04 +0300

Jordan Daily - His Majesty King Abdullah II on Tuesday chaired a meeting to review government plans to enhance Jordan’s energy and food security, as well as its proactive strategies to address the repercussions of regional and global developments.During the meeting, held at Al Husseiniya Palace and attended by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II, His Majesty was briefed on the relevant ministries’ measures to enhance and align food and energy security plans.The meeting addressed the importance of ongoing efforts to diversify energy sources and increase reliance on domestic and renewable energy sources, thereby enhancing self-sufficiency and supporting the competitiveness of economic sectors and essential services.The King directed the government to prepare and implement plans to strengthen strategic energy reserves, enhance national energy system readiness, and ensure its long-term sustainability and ability to cope with various global shifts.Speaking about food security, His Majesty emphasised the importance of maintaining robust strategic food reserves of grains and essential commodities, and of refining management mechanisms to ensure the sustainability of supplies.The King also called for expanding private sector partnerships in the storage and transport sectors to reinforce the Kingdom’s food security framework and goals.His Royal Highness Prince Feisal bin Al Hussein, chairman of the National Policies Council, Prime Minister Jafar Hassan, Director of the Office of His Majesty Alaa Batayneh, and a number of ministers and officials attended the meeting.

Al Kindi Hospital renews ISO 22000 food safety certification

Tue, 04 Aug 2026 12:44:19 +0300

Jordan Daily - Al Kindi Hospital said it has renewed its ISO 22000 (HACCP) certification for its food safety management system, reaffirming its commitment to international standards for food quality and safety.The Hospital said the certification reflects its adherence to global best practices across all stages of food service, aiming to provide a safe and healthy environment for patients and visitors. Management also reiterated its commitment to quality and patient safety across all departments and thanked staff for maintaining high service standards.Al Kindi Hospital is a multidisciplinary private healthcare provider offering services including bariatric and plastic surgery, vascular surgery, fertility treatment, lithotripsy, interventional radiology, cancer screening, organ transplantation, cardiac catheterization and open-heart surgery, gastrointestinal endoscopy, and emergency care.

Jordan’s AI moment

Tue, 04 Aug 2026 07:14:24 +0300

By: Faris Al Hadidi Economist and bankerJordan Daily - Artificial intelligence is no longer a technology story. It is becoming an economic story.Across the world, governments are no longer asking whether AI will change their economies. They are asking how quickly they can harness it to improve productivity, strengthen competitiveness, and create better jobs. For Jordan, this shift comes at an important time. After years of moderate economic growth, Jordan needs new sources of productivity if it is to raise living standards and compete more effectively in an increasingly digital global economy.Jordan starts from a stronger position than many people assume. The country has a well-educated workforce, a competitive ICT sector, and a banking industry that has consistently embraced digital transformation despite operating in a difficult regional environment. Yet productivity growth has remained modest. More investment alone is not enough to solve this challenge. The real opportunity lies in producing more value from the resources the country already has.The International Monetary Fund (IMF) estimates that AI will influence roughly 40 percent of jobs worldwide, with even greater effects in advanced economies. Importantly, the IMF does not view AI simply as a replacement for workers. Instead, it argues that the greatest economic gains will come from using AI to enhance human capabilities and improve productivity. The World Bank reaches a similar conclusion, emphasizing that digital technologies can help developing economies improve public services, strengthen businesses, and build greater economic resilience when supported by appropriate investments in infrastructure and skills.The numbers being discussed are large, but the real importance of AI is not the size of the forecast. It is the possibility of improving productivity across many sectors at the same time. Some global estimates suggest that AI could add as much as US$15.7 trillion to the world economy by 2030 through higher productivity and increased consumption. While such projections naturally involve uncertainty, they reflect a broader reality: AI is rapidly becoming a general-purpose technology with the potential to reshape almost every sector of the economy. Over the recent years, Jordan’s banking sector has invested significantly in digital banking platforms, cybersecurity, electronic payments, and customer onboarding. Digital banking is no longer enough. The next competitive advantage will come from how intelligently banks use the enormous amount of data they already possess. AI is beginning to improve fraud detection, strengthen anti-money laundering systems, support credit assessment, and enhance customer service. Perhaps even more importantly, it allows professionals to spend less time on repetitive tasks and more time exercising judgment, advising clients, and making strategic decisions. AI can make expertise more productive.For many years, most professional analytics and automation were available only to large corporations with substantial technology budgets. That barrier is disappearing. Affordable cloud-based AI applications are allowing smaller businesses to automate administrative tasks, improve marketing, forecast demand, and better understand customer needs and behaviors. These new technologies could help narrow the productivity gap that has long separated smaller firms from larger enterprises.AI cannot compensate for poor data. Poor-quality data or fragmented information systems can limit the value of even the most advanced AI applications. Investing in data governance may therefore prove just as important as investing in AI itself.Education will also play a decisive role. Universities and vocational institutions need to prepare graduates for a labor market in which AI becomes a routine workplace tool. This requires more than producing software engineers. Professionals in banking, healthcare, manufacturing, government, and many other sectors will increasingly need to understand how to work alongside AI, interpret its outputs, and apply them responsibly.Singapore, Estonia, and the United Arab Emirates have made AI a national priority by combining investment in digital infrastructure with workforce development and supportive regulation. Jordan's circumstances are different, so copying another country's strategy would make little sense. However, these examples demonstrate that successful AI adoption requires long-term planning rather than isolated projects.At the same time, AI should not be viewed as a substitute for sound economic policy. Sustainable growth will continue to depend on macroeconomic stability, structural reforms, private-sector investment, and a competitive business environment. No technology can replace sound economic policy. It is a powerful tool that can increase their impact.Jordan has reached an important moment. The debate is no longer about whether artificial intelligence will influence the economy, it already is. The real question is whether the country can use it to raise productivity, improve competitiveness, and create better opportunities for future generations. Jordan's AI opportunity will not depend on creating the world's most advanced technology. It will depend on how effectively businesses, government institutions, and professionals use existing technologies to solve real economic challenges and improve productivity.

Trump board reassures Israel after objections on Gaza pullout

Tue, 04 Aug 2026 06:07:43 +0300

AFP- US President Donald Trump’s Board of Peace on Monday assured Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that Israel’s withdrawal in Gaza would only begin after Hamas’s complete disarmament, following his objections.

Two members of Netanyahu’s security cabinet had urged a vote to tear up the deal championed by Trump after the board released a text that called for Israel to begin a phased withdrawal.

Netanyahu’s office said it had raised concerns to the United States, after Trump on Friday hailed as a “major milestone” an agreement by Hamas to hand over weapons to a nascent Palestinian governing committee.

Nickolay Mladenov, the high representative for Gaza under the Board of Peace, met with Netanyahu on Monday for what he acknowledged was difficult work.

But the board said it had reached a “common understanding of the shared objectives” with Israel.

Israel’s withdrawal beyond the Yellow Line, which demarcates the area in which Hamas still has control, “will take place only once decommissioning (of weapons) is complete, as Hamas committed to the mediators,” the board said on X.

Even if Israel withdraws under the plan, it would maintain control of much of Gaza under a Trump-led October ceasefire.Trump-Netanyahu gapIsrael had objected to the board’s Thursday text that called for a phased withdrawal within the territory and the immediate cessation of Israeli strikes in Gaza.

“Israel has conveyed its comments and concerns on the proposed framework to our American counterparts. The version that has been made public does not reflect Israel’s positions,” Doron Spielman, spokesman for the prime minister’s office, told AFP ahead of the Mladenov meeting.

Far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich had said that the text was “completely different” to the one presented to Netanyahu’s security cabinet and along with a colleague had demanded that the cabinet “immediately” hold a new vote on the Gaza plan.

Despite Israel’s defiance, no new strikes were reported Monday in Gaza, although Israel carried out attacks immediately after Trump’s announcement.

Trump had earlier said that Israel was “very happy” about the disarmament announcement by Hamas, which triggered the war when it carried out the deadliest attack ever against Israel on October 7, 2023.

It was the latest sign of disconnect between Trump and Netanyahu, who faces a tough re-election fight in October and has heavily promoted his relationship with the US leader, whom he met again in Washington last week.

Netanyahu’s spokesman said Hamas’s actions since the ceasefire have shown that it was preparing for “further October 7-style massacres.”

“The indispensable first step toward any lasting arrangement is the genuine, verifiable and irreversible demilitarization of Hamas,” Spielman said.Backtracking on announcement Trump and Netanyahu have also been at loggerheads on Iran, with Israel skeptical of his attempts at diplomacy to end the war the two countries launched in late February.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog, who holds a largely ceremonial role, offered a more upbeat take on Trump’s Gaza efforts, saying the latest development marked “a very positive step with the clear caveat and undertaking that Hamas must be disarmed.”

Mohammad Dahlan, a senior Palestinian political figure who has played a key role in the Gaza plan, said after the Board of Peace roadmap that he had spoken to Trump’s son-in-law and aide Jared Kushner who told him that Israel would end strikes in Gaza effective Sunday.

But he quickly revised his social media post, instead saying that Kushner was “working with the Israeli side to halt the attacks” in Gaza.

He later accused Netanyahu of working “to obstruct the most promising opportunity to begin ending this war.”

No major strikes were reported Monday, although a security official in Gaza said that on Sunday, Israeli attacks had killed 19 Palestinians, including women and children.

King inaugurates new 40th King Hussein bin Talal Royal Armoured Brigade buildings

Mon, 03 Aug 2026 16:35:08 +0300

Jordan Daily - His Majesty King Abdullah, the Supreme Commander of the Jordan Armed Forces-Arab Army (JAF), inaugurated on Monday new buildings for the 40th King Hussein bin Talal Royal Armoured Brigade, a formation of the Central Military Region.His Majesty, accompanied by HRH Crown Prince Hussein, was briefed by on the implementation of various stages of the project and its facilities, according to a Royal Court statement.The King also reviewed the progress of operational, training, and logistical matters, the level of combat readiness, and development plans and programmes aimed at strengthening the brigade’s capabilities and enhancing the skills required to carry out its duties, in line with the JAF’s modernisation and development plans.His Majesty commended the efforts of JAF personnel in protecting Jordan and safeguarding its stability, expressing confidence in the courage and competence of the armed forces in the face of various challenges.

Crown Prince receives US senator

Mon, 03 Aug 2026 05:38:08 +0300

Jordan Daily - Deputising for His Majesty King Abdullah, HRH Crown Prince Hussein on Sunday received United States Senator Joni Ernst, and her accompanying delegation.During the meeting, held at Al Husseiniya Palace, the Crown Prince emphasised the importance of de-escalating tensions in order to achieve regional and international stability, underscoring Jordan’s commitment to supporting efforts to bring about comprehensive calm in the region.His Royal Highness also warned of the dangerous situation in the West Bank and Gaza, stressing the need to commit to implementing all phases of the peace plan in the Strip.Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi and Director of the Office of the Crown Prince Zaid Baqain attended the meeting.

Trump says new Iran talks set to start after calling off massive attack

Mon, 03 Aug 2026 05:33:33 +0300

AFP- US President Donald Trump said that new negotiations with Iran will begin Monday after he decided to hold off on striking the Islamic republic to pursue a deal to end the war entering its sixth month.

Trump told reporters on Sunday that the talks would cover the Strait of Hormuz — a route for global energy supplies that has become a key sticking point in the conflict — and ultimately, the denuclearization of Iran.

For its part, Iran said it was nearing a deal with Oman over a new route through the strait, where a tanker reported an explosion nearby on Sunday, underscoring the continued volatility of the strategic waterway.

Oil prices fell on Monday at the opening of Asian trade after Trump announced the new negotiations, with West Texas Intermediate dropping 4.7 percent to $80.72 per barrel.

Washington and Tehran have been at war since February 28, when the US and Israel launched surprise strikes against Iran, though months of on-off diplomacy have led to periods of relative calm.

Following a return to strikes last month, fears had mounted that the fighting could escalate once again. Trump had threatened to hit Iran “very hard” and was reportedly considering renewed attacks including against energy infrastructure, with US embassies across the region on alert.

Trump pulled back from that threat Saturday, saying the “perimeters” of a deal were there.

“Now what we’re doing is we’re talking to them in the form of a negotiation. It begins tomorrow afternoon,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One on Sunday, without providing details of the venue or participants in the talks.

The US president said he had been asked by Iran as well as US partners Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar to hold off on the strikes, which he claimed would have been “the biggest attack since World War II.”

Iranian media denied that Tehran had asked Trump not to strike.

A previous ceasefire deal that included the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz fell through, and Iran has since tightened its control over the waterway.

The US president said at the start of the conflict that the war was necessary to deal with Iran’s nuclear program. Western nations accuse Iran of seeking a bomb, though Tehran insists the program is entirely civilian in nature.‘Exchange of views’ Iranian lawmaker Hassan Ghashghavi, spokesman for the parliament’s national security commission, said on Sunday that mediators were trying to revive the US-Iran memorandum of understanding that was agreed in June.

That agreement was not intended as a final peace deal, but as a stepping stone to negotiations on a comprehensive agreement, though it did include provisions on Hormuz.

“They know that the main issue and, in fact, the key to the matter right now is the issue of the Strait of Hormuz, so yes, there is an exchange of views,” Ghashghavi said.

Posting on X, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said: “We must strive to compel the enemy to remain committed to what it has signed.”Iran deal with Oman? Before the war, there was free passage for all vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, but Iran closed the strait during the war and now insists on retaining control and charging tolls, something the US rejects.

That dispute sparked the return to strikes last month, as Tehran refused to let ships travel any route other than one which hugs the Iranian coast.

On Sunday, Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei told state television that a deal was close with Oman, which sits on the other side of the strait, over a new route through it.

“We are now going to reach an understanding on a route acceptable to both sides — neither the northern route nor the southern route — but one that respects the sovereign rights of both sides and safeguards our national interests and security,” he said.

He insisted though that such an agreement did not mean the reopening of the strait.

Maritime trade tracking firm Kpler said Friday that traffic through Hormuz had dropped sharply.

On Sunday, a tanker off the coast of Oman reported hearing an explosion near the vessel, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) Center reported, adding that the vessel and crew were all safe.

When the sea becomes safer than home

Sun, 02 Aug 2026 13:46:17 +0300

By Dr. Haytham EreifejJordan Daily - The images of large numbers of young Moroccans risking their lives by swimming toward the cities of Ceuta and Melilla should not be viewed merely as a border problem or an isolated attempt at irregular migration. They should be understood as an alarm bell sounding across the entire Arab world.What drives a young person to leave behind their family and homeland and risk drowning, arrest, or deportation in search of an opportunity in a distant country? Why does the sea, despite all its dangers, appear less cruel than remaining at home?The figures show that the desire to migrate is no longer an individual or exceptional phenomenon. United Nations reports indicate that the number of migrants and refugees originating from Arab countries reached approximately 37 million in 2024. Arab Barometer surveys also reveal that thoughts of migration are widespread among young people across many Arab countries, with some expressing a willingness to take irregular routes despite being fully aware of the dangers involved.Economic hardship remains one of the main drivers. The International Labour Organization has estimated youth unemployment in the Middle East and North Africa at approximately 24.5 percent, nearly twice the global average. Yet even this figure reflects only part of the problem. Many young people are employed in low-paid, temporary, or informal jobs that do not match their education or qualifications and provide neither social security nor adequate protection.Migration, however, is not caused by unemployment alone. Arab youth are not simply searching for higher salaries. They are searching for a state that respects their abilities, protects their dignity, guarantees equality before the law, and offers genuine opportunities for advancement free from favouritism, nepotism, and discrimination.When young people feel that education and hard work are not enough to secure employment, that opportunities are distributed according to connections and influence, and that the law is not applied equally to everyone, migration is transformed in their minds from a personal choice into a means of survival.International reports on the rule of law and human rights point to serious challenges across large parts of the Arab region. These include concerns regarding judicial independence, corruption, the protection of fundamental rights, freedom of expression and association, and the rights of religious, ethnic, and linguistic minorities.Human rights studies also highlight significant gaps between legal provisions and their implementation in practice. As a result, some citizens feel that their rights are not permanent guarantees but privileges that may vary according to their identity, social position, or political connections.Arab countries cannot all be placed in the same category, nor can it be claimed that everyone considering migration is directly experiencing persecution or abuse. Nevertheless, it is difficult to deny the connection between the growing desire to leave and declining trust in institutions, limited economic and political prospects, and a weakening sense of justice and equal opportunity.The greatest contradiction lies in the populist rhetoric that attacks the West every morning, accusing it of moral decline, conspiracy, and hostility toward our values, while large numbers of our young people spend every evening dreaming of reaching it.We criticise Western societies, yet we send our children to their universities, deposit our money in their banks, seek treatment in their hospitals, rely on their courts, and request residence and protection there whenever life becomes unbearable in our own countries.Young people do not migrate because they hate their homelands. They migrate because they want a state that respects human dignity, rewards hard work, protects freedom, provides decent employment, and places the law above everyone.Indeed, the young person most deeply attached to their country may be the one who suffers most when they discover that they are unable to build a future within it.Walls, patrols, and punishments alone will not stop migration. They may delay it or force migrants to seek different routes, but they will not address its root causes.Reducing irregular migration begins with creating decent employment opportunities, improving wages and social protection, combating corruption and favouritism, strengthening judicial independence, guaranteeing public freedoms, protecting minority rights, and restoring confidence that competence and hard work can still build a future at home.Instead of blaming those who take to the sea, we must ask the more difficult question: Who made a young person at the beginning of their life believe that the possibility of drowning at sea is more merciful than continuing to live without work, justice, or hope?

SME Fund Jo announces establishment of Trismart Group

Sun, 02 Aug 2026 12:02:02 +0300

Jordan Daily - SME Fund Jo announced the establishment of Trismart Group following the completion of the merger of Trismart and ManafSoft, effective 16 July 2026. The merger marks the launch of the Fund’s first vertical investment platform in information technology and represents an early step in implementing its strategy to build sector-focused investment platforms, bringing strategically aligned Jordanian companies together in stronger businesses that are better positioned to grow, expand and compete.SME Fund Jo holds a majority stake in each company and led the merger process, shaping the strategic vision for the new Group and supporting the development of the governance framework and institutional capabilities needed for its long-term growth.The establishment of Trismart Group comes as artificial intelligence adoption accelerates, data governance becomes increasingly important and demand grows for more advanced digital infrastructure. The merger aims to create an integrated technology provider that combines financial software, digital infrastructure and security systems. This will allow the Group to offer solutions that combine these capabilities to meet the needs of financial institutions, government entities and businesses across a wide range of sectors.Commenting on the announcement, Ayat Al Hunaiti, Chairperson of Trismart Group, said, “SME Fund Jo takes a long-term approach to investing in Jordanian companies, working alongside them to strengthen corporate governance and build the institutional capabilities required for sustainable growth. Its strategy also focuses on investing in complementary Jordanian companies in promising sectors and bringing them together as stronger, more competitive businesses, enhancing the value generated by the Fund’s portfolio companies. The establishment of Trismart Group puts this approach into practice by bringing together two companies with complementary capabilities under a unified strategic vision and strengthening their ability to compete and expand. It is also an important step in the Fund’s strategy to build vertical investment platforms that support sectors central to Jordan’s economy and help build stronger, more sustainable national companies.”Abdallah Haj Deeb Saken, Chief Executive Officer of Trismart Group, said, “We see this merger as laying a stronger foundation for the next phase of our growth. Trismart and ManafSoft have each built extensive expertise and earned the trust of their clients. Combining these capabilities broadens the range of solutions we can offer and creates greater opportunities for sustainable growth. It also allows us to continue investing in Jordanian talent and developing technology solutions in Jordan for markets across the region.”Mohammad Farraj, Acting General Manager of ManafSoft, added, “I see this merger as an encouraging development whose impact extends beyond the two companies. It offers a practical example of what Jordanian businesses can achieve when they combine their expertise and capabilities behind a shared vision and strategy. This integration will improve operational efficiency, accelerate innovation and increase the value we deliver to our clients. We hope it marks the start of further investment initiatives that bring together companies across the Fund’s portfolio and support the creation of more agile and competitive businesses.”The new Group brings together the capabilities of two established Jordanian technology companies. Trismart, founded in 2001, specializes in the design and implementation of digital infrastructure, data centres, security systems and customer experience solutions. ManafSoft brings more than three decades of experience in developing software for financial institutions and capital markets, including systems for brokerage, anti-money laundering, shareholder management and asset management. Together, the two companies serve clients across the financial, government and business sectors and have a presence in Jordan, Syria, Palestine, Iraq and Libya.In the next phase, the Group will focus on developing IP-based products and solutions and integrating software and digital infrastructure to deliver more comprehensive solutions that support institutions’ digital transformation. It will also work to improve operational efficiency and expand its presence across regional markets. The establishment of the Group is expected to create new employment opportunities and support local innovation, increasing the technology sector’s contribution to Jordan’s economy.SME Fund Jo is a JOD 125 million private equity fund established in 2018 at the initiative of the Central Bank of Jordan and managed by Al Arabi Investment Group Co (AB Invest). The Fund invests in Jordanian small and medium-sized enterprises with strong growth potential. It supports the long-term growth of its portfolio companies by strengthening governance, building institutional capabilities and creating operational value, contributing to the development of stronger, more competitive and sustainable Jordanian businesses. To date, the Fund has invested in more than 25 Jordanian companies across five strategic sectors, in line with its vision of supporting economic growth and job creation and enhancing the competitiveness of Jordan’s economy.

Spain’s North Africa enclave returns to normal as migrants depart

Sun, 02 Aug 2026 05:54:42 +0300

AFP- Almost all of the tens of thousands of migrants who entered Spain’s enclave of Ceuta in North Africa had left by Saturday, officials said, as some EU countries bolstered their border controls over the sudden influx.

An estimated 60,000 migrants entered Ceuta over just a few days from neighboring Morocco, the enclave’s regional president Juan Jesus Vivas told reporters, but by Saturday Spain’s interior minister said almost all had left.

“The situation has been almost entirely reversed,” Fernando Grande-Marlaska told reporters.

Under the watch of Spanish soldiers and police on Saturday morning, the remaining young migrants continued crossing back over the border to Morocco, AFP journalists saw.

Any who lingered too long on the coastal path were immediately ushered back out by the soldiers.

To cross into Ceuta, many swam around a small border barrier that juts out into the Mediterranean.

At least 67 people died in the attempt, said Grande-Marlaska providing updated figures Saturday.

“We hope to go to Europe to work and earn a living. That’s it,” Souleye Bodian, 19, a Senegalese migrant told AFP outside a migrant center in Ceuta where dozens of other sub-Saharan African migrants waited for officials.

“We all know that in Africa there isn’t much opportunity,” he said.

The sudden influx of migrants had sparked political panic in Europe.- ‘Adios’ -Twenty-two EU countries issued a joint open letter on Saturday calling for a video meeting of the bloc’s interior ministers “as a matter of urgency” to agree a speedy coordinated response, and to “prevent further uncontrolled crossings.”

France has tightened checks on its border with Spain and said it would increase its police presence there fivefold to 334 officers and gendarmes by Saturday.

Italy suspended its Schengen agreement with Spain allowing for visa-free movement between borders as of Saturday for one month.

Several European countries had suggested Spain’s membership in the Schengen free movement zone should be suspended, though that was virtually impossible in practice.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, in a letter to the heads of the European Commission and European Council, blasted the “selfish” reaction by some EU countries. He backed a video meeting of interior ministers.

Madrid has already rushed troops, police, drones, divers and boats to the North African outpost that it has run for centuries.

After a night of wandering the beaches and streets of Ceuta, and dozens of men sleeping on the sand, AFP journalists observed Saturday, some young people turning back to say “adios” or “goodbye” to officers before crossing back to Morocco.

More soldiers stood guard on the small beach next to the border fence, positioned under parasols in the morning.

Buoys and flippers still littered the ground along the fence, while others floated in the water, remnants from the surge of people who had initially swum past the border post.

Nearby an inflatable boat with security personnel patrolled in the thick fog.

Spain’s interior ministry said a new pneumatic barrier 500 meters (1,640 feet) in length was installed near the border post to reinforce security.- ‘A better future’ -In Morocco, Soufian, 42, told AFP that he had been planning to make a swim from his coastal town of Martil, located less than 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Ceuta, when a friend told him that the border was open.

“It didn’t take long — just five minutes or less, maybe three — since it was right at the border.”

He explained he was motivated by the potential to visit his mother, who is ill and lives in Madrid.

“Even though there’s no food, nothing at all, I’ll endure anything to see my mother,” Soufian said, adding he makes just 10 euros ($12) a day working 12-hour shifts as a security guard.

As for the others who crossed, he said, “everyone wants to move up, wants a good future — something that doesn’t exist in Morocco.”

What sparked the sudden massive flow of migrants remains unclear.

Morocco’s authorities have not yet issued an official statement on the development.

A Moroccan source close to the border operations told AFP on condition of anonymity Saturday that those being returned by Spain were being transported home directly by bus or via the railway station in Tangier, 70 kilometers (45 miles) away.

The Fnideq border crossing is now “completely secure,” the source added, as are the hills overlooking it, from which hundreds of people, mostly young men, had thrown stones at security forces on Friday.

Ceuta, a territory of 18.5 square kilometers (seven square miles), and the nearby enclave of Melilla are Europe’s only two land borders with Africa.

Previous migrant surges have occurred during tensions between Spain and Morocco, including in 2021 which led more than 10,000 migrants to enter Ceuta in just two days.

King receives call from UK PM

Sat, 01 Aug 2026 18:41:02 +0300

Jordan Daily - His Majesty King Abdullah received a phone call from United Kingdom Prime Minister Andy Burnham on Saturday, during which they discussed the deep-rooted ties between Jordan and the UK, as well as the latest regional developments.His Majesty congratulated the prime minister on his appointment, voicing hope to use the momentum of the recent UK visit to deepen partnerships between the two countries across various fields, according to a Royal Court statement.Speaking about current regional developments, the King called for stepping up international efforts to restore stability in the region, affirming that Jordan will continue to take all necessary measures to safeguard its security, sovereignty, and the safety of its citizens.His Majesty also underscored the need to end Israel’s dangerous escalations against Palestinians in the West Bank and Jerusalem

Jerash Festival's success belongs to all state institutions, director says

Fri, 31 Jul 2026 17:30:29 +0300

Jordan Daily - The success of the Jerash Festival for Culture and Arts reflects the combined efforts of the state institutions, the festival's Executive Director Yazan Al khadiri said on Friday.Speaking in a televised interview, Al khadiri noted the festival's 40th edition had attracted strong public turnout since its opening, with visitors expressing satisfaction over organisation and services.He praised security departments for ensuring the safety of festival-goers and highlighted close coordination among government bodies, saying it contributed to a smooth visitor experience.Al-Khadiri said the festival had showed Jordan a country capable of delivering major cultural events despite regional challenges, adding that each successive management team had contributed ideas and improvements that strengthened the festival's reputation and success.

Trump announces agreement for disarmament of Hamas

Fri, 31 Jul 2026 06:08:50 +0300

Reuters- US President Donald Trump on Thursday announced an agreement for the “complete disarmament” of Hamas, calling it a critical step toward a new Palestinian government in Gaza.There was no immediate statement from Hamas on the agreement, but Trump’s announcement came after sources familiar with the ongoing talks with mediators in Cairo told AFP that the Palestinian Islamist movement was progressing towards a deal involving the decommissioning of its weapons.“Today, the Board of Peace reached a HISTORIC agreement for the COMPLETE DISARMAMENT of Hamas and all other armed groups in Gaza. This is a monumental step toward lasting PEACE and SECURITY,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform, saying disarmament would take place in “carefully structured phases.”“As disarmament is completed, Israeli forces will withdraw, and the International Stabilization Force will work with a new Palestinian police force to take responsibility for Gaza being safe for its residents and its neighbors,” he added, also thanking mediators from Egypt, Qatar, and Turkiye.The thorny issue of Hamas’s disarmament has been one of the key sticking points in the advancement of the ceasefire deal that has been in place between Israel and the group in Gaza since October.Despite the ceasefire, violence has continued in Gaza, with Israeli strikes killing at least four people including two children on Thursday, according to health officials.Cairo is set to host a meeting “soon” of the Gaza truce mediators, which also include the United States, Qatar and Turkiye, state-linked Al-Qahera News reported early Friday in Egypt.The news outlet did not specify when the meeting would take place, but said that it would discuss implementing the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire plan, a roadmap for which Hamas and Palestinian factions have agreed to.Under Trump’s 20-point peace plan for Gaza, the second phase of the ceasefire was to involve Hamas’s disarmament and a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from the territory.The plan also provides for a group of Palestinian technocrats, the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG), to assume day-to-day governance during Gaza’s transitional phase out of war.Earlier Thursday, a Hamas source told AFP that the group was still in the process of making amendments to the proposal.‘No exceptions’Earlier, a diplomatic source told AFP: “We continue to advance the implementation roadmap that offers a balanced and pragmatic path forward, with all weapons decommissioned and a phased transition of responsibilities taking place to hand over full authority to the technocratic government.”The source, who spoke on condition of anonymity as he was not authorized to speak publicly on the matter, said there would be “no exceptions for certain weapons or certain people. One authority, one law, one weapon”.The roadmap, the source said, would create “a process for the elimination of all tunnels, depots of weapons and any weapons production facilities”.“All weapons, heavy and light, will be under full control of the NCAG in coordination with and with the support of the ISF,” the source added, referring to the International Stabilisation Force, a fledgling body envisaged to comprise multinational troops operating under Trump’s Board of Peace.The source said a verification mechanism would ensure compliance by each side.A Hamas source familiar with the talks told AFP earlier that the movement is “awaiting the Israeli response to the amendments we recently submitted to the mediators”.The source said the amendments concerned two articles in the roadmap presented by the Board of Peace.Regarding the article concerning weapons, the Hamas source said that “some points were removed, and alternatives were proposed”.An Israeli political source told AFP that the proposed deal does not “satisfactorily” address Israeli demands.“Israel demands the complete disarmament of Hamas, including the removal of weapons from Gaza and full demilitarization of the Strip as a precondition for any process,” the source said.The source also said that “the issue of Gaza did not come up at all” in the meeting between Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and Trump in Washington this week.

Japanese Ambassador visits UNRWA summer camp in Amman, pledges continued support for Palestine refugees

Thu, 30 Jul 2026 19:13:29 +0300

Jordan Daily - Ambassador of Japan to Jordan, Mr. ASARI Hideki, visited Nuzha Boys and Girls Schools on Thursday. He observed the activities of the children at the summer camp implemented by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) Jordan Field Office with the support from the Government of Japan. Launched in summer 2023, this is the fourth consecutive summer camp held at UNRWA schools across Jordan, designed to provide Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) and learning support sessions to students. During his visit, Ambassador Asari was briefed about UNRWA’s recent operations and programmes by Mr. Kunal Dhar, Deputy Director of UNRWA Affairs, Programmes, Jordan, Embassy of Japan said in a statement.Reflecting on the visit, Ambassador Asari emphasised UNRWA’s role in providing essential and critical services to the Palestine refugees across the region including Jordan. He also touched on the significant challenges UNRWA is facing in recent years, expressed Japan’s support for UNRWA’s efforts to improve its governance and ensure neutrality, and assured UNRWA of Japan's unwavering support to sustain the lives of the most vulnerable people through the agency. Furthermore, he stressed UNRWA’s important role has increased not only to serve for Palestine refugees but also for the regional stability amid current regional situation. From UNRWA’s side, Deputy Director of UNRWA Affairs Mr. Dhar said, “We are delighted to welcome Ambassador Asari to our Summer Camp today and to see first-hand the positive impact of Japan's support on Palestine refugee children. Thanks to Japan's generous partnership, children can enjoy a safe and supportive summer environment that helps them return to school academically prepared and emotionally ready to learn. Japan's longstanding investment in education, mental health and social protection continues to make a positive impact in the lives of Palestine Refugee children”.Between April 2026 and March 2027, the Government of Japan is allocating $3.33 million to UNRWA Jordan Office for ‘Mental Health, Psychosocial, and Humanitarian Support for Palestine Refugees in Jordan’ project, which provides basic needs for the vulnerable Palestine refugees through cash assistance and shelter replacement, and enhances access to MHPSS services for Palestine refugee students by recruiting additional 50 school counsellors and delivering MHPSS activities during semesters and the summer break, and conducting an MHPSS assessment among UNRWA students to better understand their psychosocial well-being and inform future interventions and response planning.

University of Petra team wins top prize at IEEE Hackathon in Poland

Thu, 30 Jul 2026 11:42:34 +0300

Jordan Daily - A team from University of Petra won first place at the IEEE Region 8 Humanitarian Technology Activities (HTA) Hackathon 2026 in Krakow, Poland, outperforming 86 teams from more than 100 countries across Europe, the Middle Daily - East and Africa.Students Zaid Abu Al-Shaar, Abdulrahman Al-Kurdi and Abdulrahman Al-Haimouni, competing as the VCoders team, received the top award for PalmGuard , an artificial intelligence and smart sensing system designed to detect red palm weevil infestations before visible symptoms appear.The technology analyzes biological indicators in palm trees, enabling early intervention to reduce economic and environmental losses caused by the destructive pest.The team said the victory followed months of research and development aimed at turning innovative ideas into practical solutions for real-world challenges, and credited the University of Petra for supporting their participation in the international competition.

Lebanon probes prominent businessman’s meeting with Netanyahu

Thu, 30 Jul 2026 07:10:28 +0300

Agencies- Lebanon tasked the security forces on Wednesday with investigating a meeting between influential Lebanese Christian businessman Antoun Sehnaoui and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a judicial official told AFP.

Lebanese law criminalizes contact with Israel and violators could face prison terms. The countries began direct talks under US sponsorship in April, a month after the latest fighting erupted between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah.

Axios journalist Barak Ravid said on X that on Monday night in Washington, Sehnaoui and former US envoy Morgan Ortagus hosted a dinner attended by high-profile officials including Netanyahu. The dinner was in memory of Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, who died this month.

An accompanying photo showing Sehnaoui and Netanyahu at the same table sparked uproar on social media in Lebanon across the political spectrum.

The judicial official, requesting anonymity, told AFP that the public prosecutor had tasked the security forces “with opening an investigation into the photo” to establish “whether it is authentic.”

The “appropriate legal procedures” will be taken based on the outcome of the investigation, the official added.

In another image posted on Netanyahu’s X account, Sehnaoui is visible behind the Israeli premier.The prosecutor is to examine the matter and decide whether to refer it to the military court.More than a dozen Lebanese lawyers filed a complaint at the prosecutor’s office in Beirut on Wednesday against the banker, saying he violated the country’s laws by meeting with Netanyahu.

The complaint said Sehnaoui committed “the crimes of contacting and dealing with the Israeli enemy, violating the Israel boycott law, the crime of treason and state security crimes.”

Two of the Lebanese lawyers who filed the complaint told The Associated Press that the Sehnaoui-Netanyahu meeting came as Israel’s military is still carrying out attacks on Lebanon.

The conflict revived two days after Israel and the US attacked Iran, when Hezbollah fired at Israel and Israel responded with airstrikes and ground forces. More than 4,000 people in Lebanon have been killed, and Israel still occupies dozens of villages and towns. The countries recently reached a framework agreement.

One of the lawyers, Hassan Bazzi, said Sehnaoui violated the law and offended national sentiments. Bazzi said the lawyers hope the prosecutor’s office performs its duties “effectively and swiftly.”

Another lawyer, Mohammed Hajj Hassan, called Sehnaoui’s meeting with Netanyahu “a public offense,” and now the judiciary is expected to investigate the case in what could lead to issuing arrest warrants.

It was not immediately clear how prosecutors will deal with the case. In the past, they issued arrest warrants in similar cases for Lebanese citizens outside the country.

Sehnaoui, who has been mostly based in the US in recent years, has several businesses in Lebanon and abroad in sectors including banking, media and the film industry.

Like other senior bankers, Sehnaoui was harshly criticized following Lebanon’s historic economic meltdown in 2019, when most people lost access to their money. The economic crisis was described by the World Bank as among the worst in the world since the 1850s.

Sehnaoui’s meeting with the Israeli leader occurred as some in Lebanon have called for abolishing a 1955 law that bans dealing with Israel or having contacts with Israelis and punishes offenders with up to 10 years in jail.

Crown Prince attends conclusion of joint tactical exercise

Wed, 29 Jul 2026 20:10:15 +0300

Jordan Daily - His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II on Wednesday attended the conclusion of a joint tactical exercise conducted by elite units from the King Abdullah II Royal Special Forces, and their counterparts from the Turkish, Azerbaijani, and Pakistani special forces.The exercise, which took place at one of the Jordan Armed Forces-Arab Army (JAF)’s training centres, aims to strengthen military cooperation between the participating countries, hone the participants’ skills, and consolidate the JAF’s position as a key partner in the regional security framework.The participants demonstrated a high level of combat proficiency during the two-week exercise, aligning special operations tactics and sharing vital combat experiences, serving to enhance operational integration between the participating forces and boost joint readiness and emergency response.Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Maj. Gen. Yousef Huneiti, the ambassadors of Türkiye, Azerbaijan, and Pakistan to Jordan, and military officers from the participating countries attended the conclusion of the joint military exercise.

Saudi Arabia strikes Iran-backed Iraqi militia

Wed, 29 Jul 2026 05:53:58 +0300

Arab News - Saudi Arabia’s defense ministry said early on Wednesday it had struck Iran-backed group targets in Iraq.The ministry said in a post on social media that Saudi Arabia was not seeking escalation, but will respond to aggression.The operation was conducted jointly with US forces, it said.Earlier, the ministry said it intercepted and destroyed a number of drones on Tuesday evening that attempted to target petroleum facilities in the Eastern Province.The official spokesman for the ministry Maj. Gen. Turki Al-Malki said the “terrorist” attacks originated once again from Iraqi territory and were carried out by Iran-backed terrorist militias.He affirmed the Kingdom’s inherent right to defend itself and its assets, as well as its right to respond at the appropriate time and place.Drones launched from Iraq that attempted to target oil facilities in the Kingdom’s Eastern Province and Riyadh were intercepted on Monday.

Crown Prince meets with France minister delegate for armed forces and veterans

Tue, 28 Jul 2026 20:11:43 +0300

Jordan Daily - HRH Crown Prince Hussein, the Regent, met on Tuesday with France Minister Delegate for the Armed Forces and Veterans Alice Rufo.The meeting, held at Al Husseiniya Palace, covered current developments in the region, as well as ways of strengthening defence cooperation between Jordan and France, according to a Royal Court statement.The Crown Prince underscored the need to reach comprehensive regional calm.His Royal Highness warned of the gravity of developments in the West Bank, noting the importance of stepping up international efforts to halt the ongoing escalation there.Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Maj. Gen. Yousef Huneiti, Director of the Office of the Crown Prince Zaid Baqain, and France Ambassador to Jordan Franck Gellet attended the meeting.

Toyota Gazoo Racing claims one-two victory at Rally Estonia

Tue, 28 Jul 2026 16:50:43 +0300

Jordan Daily - TOYOTA GAZOO Racing World Rally Team (TGR-WRT) delivered an outstanding one-two result at Rally Estonia, with Sami Pajari and co-driver Marko Salminen claiming their first FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) victory in the No. 5 Toyota GR YARIS Rally1. Oliver Solberg and Elliott Edmondson completed the result with a strong second-place finish in the No. 99 Toyota GR YARIS Rally1, crossing the line 19.5 seconds behind their teammates.Akio Toyoda, TGR-WRT Chairman, commented, “Congratulations Sami and Marko on your first WRC victory! I’m really happy that your determination, positive attitude and willingness to take action have finally been rewarded with a win. Seeing you and Oliver – both the same age – standing together on the top two steps of the podium was also a wonderful sight that gave us a glimpse of the future. It’s always satisfying to see experienced drivers win, but this was a different kind of excitement altogether. And with Sami’s victory this weekend, all five of our drivers have now taken wins this season.”Toyoda added, “At TOYOTA GAZOO Racing World Rally Team, we do not make cars with the goal of helping just one driver win. Our philosophy is to make a car that gives every driver on the team an equal opportunity to fight for victory. The success achieved by all of our drivers has proven the value of both our car development and our team-building approach. To everyone in the team, let’s keep pushing forward and continue building even better cars together.”Rally Estonia presented crews with a compact but demanding format, packing 301.8 competitive kilometres into just over 48 hours. Based around the city of Tartu, the event combined wide and flowing gravel roads with crests and large jumps, as well as narrower technical sections where the soft and sandy surface became increasingly challenging during the second pass of each stage.Pajari and Salminen established their dominance from the opening day, setting the fastest time across all seven stages to build a 14.7-second advantage. Despite the high-speed nature of the roads, the 24-year-old delivered a calm and composed performance, combining consistent control with exceptional pace throughout the day.The No. 5 crew continued to lead during the event’s longest day, which featured nine stages and 149.6 competitive kilometres. After extending their advantage through the opening stages, Pajari and Salminen secured three consecutive stage wins during the afternoon to end day two 25 seconds ahead of Solberg and Edmondson.Rain threatened to alter conditions on the final day, which consisted of two passes through the 24.39-kilometre Kääriku stage. Pajari remained composed throughout both runs, managing his advantage to secure victory by 19.5 seconds and become the latest driver to claim a maiden WRC win on Estonia’s fast gravel roads.Solberg and Edmondson maintained a consistently strong pace throughout the rally, regularly featuring among the fastest crews while keeping firm control of second place. They concluded the event by topping both the Super Sunday and Power Stage classifications, earning maximum bonus points and completing a memorable one-two finish for Toyota.The victory moves Pajari into third place in the drivers’ championship standings with 144 points, while Solberg rises to fifth with 130 points. With five rallies remaining in the 2026 season, Toyota has extended its lead in the manufacturers’ championship to 156 points, with a total of 464 points after nine rounds.Toyota’s motorsports history dates back over 60 years. Reflecting the concept that ‘Roads build people, and people build cars’, Toyota has competed in a wide range of motorsport disciplines worldwide. Its major successes, achieved under the most extreme conditions, together with the hard-won knowledge and technical insights they have yielded, continue to serve as the foundation for building ‘ever-better’ cars. TOYOTA GAZOO Racing competes in top-level motorsport categories such as the FIA World Rally Championship, as well as in customer motorsport activities using production vehicles.The next round of the 2026 FIA WRC is Rally Finland, taking place from July 30 to August 2. The fastest rally on the WRC calendar is held on smooth gravel roads featuring numerous jumps and crests and serves as a home event for TGR-WRT, whose headquarters are located close to the service park in Jyväskylä.Those interested can follow the official Facebook, Instagram and YouTube pages for the latest updates and results from local, regional and international races. Motorsport enthusiasts are also invited to discover the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing lineup at Markazia Toyota’s showroom on Mecca Street.Markazia Group is the exclusive distributor in Jordan for Toyota and Lexus vehicles; Hino trucks; Yamaha motorcycles and scooters; Budget Car Rental; Autel electric vehicle chargers; King Long buses; Petronas lubricants; and Henkel, DENSO and BG products. Since 1999, the company has established itself as a leader in automobile sales, after-sales services and genuine spare parts. Guided by a community-focused strategy and a strong corporate social responsibility program, Markazia Group is committed to being more than a distributor - it is a company dedicated to driving positive change within society.

Crown Prince visits Civil Status, Passports Department, urges completion of digital transition of services

Tue, 28 Jul 2026 06:59:23 +0300

Jordan Daily- HRH Crown Prince Hussein, the Regent, visited on Monday the Civil Status and Passports Department, and emphasised the importance of completing digital automation of services.The Crown Prince called for expanding public awareness campaigns to ensure all citizens are informed about the services provided through the Sanad application, particularly those offered by the Civil Status and Passports Department, and to educate citizens on how to use the services and access them online, according to a Royal Court statement.His Royal Highness was briefed by Director General of the Civil Status and Passports Department Ghaith Al Tayeb on the department’s services and projects in the areas of digital transformation and e-connectivity, as well as efforts being made to expand the provision of e-services, thereby helping to streamline procedures for citizens and improve their experience.Al Tayeb explained that the department offers 25 online services, accounting for 81 per cent of its transactions, noting that the proportion of transactions completed online rose from 3.8 per cent in 2024 to 24.6 per cent in 2026, the statement said.During his tour of the Civil Status and Passports Department, the Crown Prince also emphasised the need to expedite the processing of applications submitted in person, as well as to ensure inclusive access to support the diverse needs of citizens.His Royal Highness was accompanied by Interior Minister Mazen Farraya, Minister of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship Sami Smeirat, and Director of the Office of the Crown Prince Zaid Baqain.

Al-Kindi Hospital highlights 'Hamburg' Operating Room and advanced surgical facilities

Mon, 27 Jul 2026 16:08:44 +0300

Jordan Daily - Al-Kindi Hospital has highlighted one of its 12 fully equipped operating rooms, the “Hamburg Operating Room,” as part of its effort to provide specialized surgical care in a modern environment designed to enhance patient comfort and safety.The hospital has named each of its operating rooms after Jordanian, Arab and international cities, including Petra, Wadi Rum, Jerash, Riyadh, Doha, Kuwait, Dubai, London and Hamburg. The initiative is intended to create a familiar and reassuring atmosphere for patients from different countries, with symbolic images of the cities displayed inside the rooms.The Hamburg Operating Room, designated as Operating Room No. 1, is dedicated to urological procedures, including minimally invasive endoscopic surgery, prostate surgery and kidney stone treatment. Procedures are performed by consultant and specialist urologists with expertise in kidney, urinary tract and prostate surgery.The hospital said the operating room was named "Hamburg" in recognition of the German company, headquartered in Hamburg, that supplied and equipped the hospital's operating theaters.to the hospital, the operating room was designed in line with international quality, infection-control and sterilization standards. It is equipped with advanced medical technology, including holmium laser systems, endoscopic surgical equipment, lithotripsy devices and prostate surgery systems. Anesthesia and intensive care teams monitor patients before, during and after surgery, while inpatient units are equipped with modern medical technology to provide round-the-clock care.Al-Kindi Hospital is a multispecialty private hospital offering services that include bariatric and plastic surgery, vascular surgery, fertility treatment, interventional radiology, cancer screening, organ transplantation, cardiac catheterization and open-heart surgery, gastrointestinal endoscopy, and emergency and ambulance services.https://www.youtube.com/shorts/Xpfur-SXhpY

Orange Jordan becomes first telecom operator to receive 6-Star EFQM recognition

Mon, 27 Jul 2026 09:58:16 +0300

Jordan Daily - Orange Jordan said it has become the first telecommunications operator globally to receive the 6-Star EFQM Recognized for Excellence in Sustainable Performance certification, marking a milestone in its sustainability and operational excellence efforts.The company said the recognition reflects its transformation through stronger governance, continuous improvement and a focus on sustainable performance.Chief Executive Officer Philippe Mansour described in a post seen by Jordan Daily, the achievement as "a purposeful transformation built on strong governance, continuous improvement, and the dedication of our people."The 6-Star EFQM Recognized for Excellence in Sustainable Performance certification is one of the highest levels of recognition under the EFQM (European Foundation for Quality Management) Model, an internationally recognized framework for organizational excellence.Mansour thanked the King Abdullah II Center for Excellence (KACE) and the assessment team for their role in promoting a culture of excellence in Jordan.

Syria president tells Al Jazeera his country seeks security deal with Israel

Mon, 27 Jul 2026 07:22:34 +0300

Reuters - Syria is seeking to reach a security agreement with Israel, Syrian President Ahmed Al-Sharaa said in an interview with Al Jazeera on Sunday. He said a deal could pave the way for comprehensive peace between the two countries without compromising Syria’s right to the Golan Heights, an area that Israel captured from Syria in the 1967 Six-Day War and annexed ‌in 1981.Sharaa said ‌Syria was trying to involve a large group ‌of countries ⁠to pressure Israel ⁠to adopt a more balanced policy toward Syria.“We are avoiding getting into confrontations,” he added. Soon after former Syrian President Bashar Al Assad fell to rebel forces advancing under Sharaa’s leadership in December 2024, Israeli troops pushed into Syria and seized strategic territories. Israeli troops moved into a demilitarized zone inside Syria, including the Syrian side of Mount Hermon, which overlooks the capital Damascus. Since then, ⁠the Israeli military has launched strikes on Syria and ‌detained individuals from within the country. Israel ‌has also intervened in what it calls missions to protect ethnic minority Druze in ‌southwestern Syria.On Sunday, Israeli forces shelled areas in Syria and destroyed an ‌electrical transformer in the village of Maariyah, depriving homes of power, Syria’s state news agency SANA said. Sharaa’s comments coincided with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres visiting Syria, the first trip by a United Nations chief to the country since 2009.In a statement ‌on X on Sunday, Guterres called for respect for Syria’s sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity.“Violations by Israel of ⁠the 1974 ⁠Disengagement of Forces Agreement are unacceptable & must stop,” Guterres said.Last year, Sharaa, who is trying to rehabilitate Syria’s image, became the first Syrian president since 1967 to take part in the UN General Assembly in New York. His government is seeking to rebuild international ties and the local economy after nearly 14 years of war and decades of isolation and death under Assad family rule. Sharaa also said his government is “not considering military interventions” in Lebanon. The Iran-backed Shiite Lebanese militant group Hezbollah and Sharaa fought on opposing sides of the Syrian civil war.Earlier this year, US President Donald Trump said he had spoken to Sharaa about combating Hezbollah, after criticizing Israel for killing too many civilians in Lebanon.

HCD receives ISQua EEA international accreditation for its national standards

Sun, 26 Jul 2026 16:59:55 +0300

Jordan Daily - The Higher Council for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (HCD) has achieved a new national milestone that reflects Jordan’s leadership in developing quality and accreditation systems. The National Standards for Services Provided to Persons with Intellectual Disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorder have received international accreditation from the International Society for Quality in Health Care External Evaluation Association (ISQua EEA) under its International Accreditation Programme for the period 2026–2030. This recognition follows the successful completion of all stages of the external evaluation process and fulfilment of the accreditation requirements in accordance with international best practices.This accreditation constitutes international recognition of the institutional methodology adopted by the Council in developing, managing, and reviewing its national standards. It also confirms their alignment with internationally recognised principles for developing health and social care standards, including good governance, evidence-based practice, stakeholder engagement, and continuous improvement.This achievement represents a significant advancement in the development of Jordan’s national quality system. It enhances the reliability and credibility of the national standards among government entities, service providers, regulatory bodies, and international organisations. It also strengthens confidence in Jordan’s accreditation system and opens broader opportunities for international cooperation and the exchange of expertise, thereby reinforcing Jordan’s position as a regional model in the development of quality standards for services provided to persons with disabilities.ISQua EEA is one of the world’s leading organisations specialising in the evaluation and accreditation of accreditation bodies, accreditation programmes, national standards, and surveyor training programmes in the fields of health and social care. It is internationally recognised as a leading authority in assessing the quality of methodologies used to develop standards and accreditation systems.ISQua EEA’s International Accreditation Programme assesses the extent to which standards-developing organisations comply with an integrated framework of international principles. These include governance, reliance on scientific evidence, transparency in development procedures, stakeholder engagement, management of conflicts of interest, decision-making mechanisms, periodic review, impact measurement, and the policies and procedures required to ensure the development of standards that are applicable and subject to continuous improvement.The final report issued by the international evaluation team showed that the national standards achieved an overall score of 96 per cent. This result reflects an advanced level of compliance with ISQua’s principles for the development of health and social care standards. The report also commended the institutional methodology adopted by the Council, describing it as an integrated national framework that combines governance, quality, safety, risk management, and continuous improvement, while being firmly grounded in a rights-based approach to persons with disabilities.The international evaluation team also praised the principal strengths of Jordan’s experience. These included the existence of a clear institutional methodology for developing and reviewing standards; reliance on the latest scientific evidence and international best practices; alignment of the standards with national legislation; and the engagement of government entities, experts, and service providers throughout all stages of development.The team further highlighted the existence of an integrated system for governance, monitoring, and performance measurement, as well as the incorporation of quality, safety, and risk management across the various components of the standards. Particular recognition was given to the emphasis placed on the rights and empowerment of persons with disabilities and on positioning them at the centre of the service-delivery process.This accreditation is the result of two parallel pathways. The first spans approximately ten years, during which the Council worked to develop and issue the national standards and establish the national accreditation system. This process began with the launch of the first version of the standards in 2016, which was based on ISQua’s methodology. It continued through their implementation and evaluation, the training of institutions and surveyors, the collection of feedback, and the development of guidelines, policies, and procedures governing accreditation processes.This pathway culminated in the launch of the revised second edition in 2023. The revised standards were developed through a comprehensive scientific methodology that included a review of national legislation, scientific evidence, and regional and international standards, as well as the engagement of experts and relevant stakeholders and field-testing prior to their formal adoption. The Council also prepared and developed numerous additional standards covering other service areas.The second pathway involved the process of obtaining international accreditation from ISQua EEA, which extended over nearly two years. It included formal application to the International Accreditation Programme, the completion of a self-assessment against ISQua principles, the translation of standards, policies, and procedural guidelines, preparation of the technical portfolio, and completion of the required documentation and supporting evidence. The application was then subjected to evaluation by an international team of surveyors, culminating in the approval of the accreditation decision and the granting of the international accreditation certificate to the Council for the period 2026–2030.The impact of this achievement extends beyond international recognition of the national standards. It enhances Jordan’s position in developing public policies relating to the rights of persons with disabilities and the quality of services, strengthens confidence in the national accreditation system, and creates broader opportunities for international cooperation and the exchange of expertise. In doing so, it further establishes Jordan as a regional centre of excellence in the development of service-quality standards.This accreditation marks the beginning of a new phase during which the Council will continue to maintain compliance with accreditation requirements, further develop and update the national standards, and expand their scope to cover additional service areas. These efforts will contribute to embedding a culture of quality and accreditation, strengthening institutional efficiency, improving the quality of services provided to persons with disabilities, and building a sustainable national system that places people, their rights, and the quality of services at the heart of its priorities.This achievement embodies the vision led by His Royal Highness Prince Mired bin Raad, Chief Chamberlain and President of the Higher Council for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. This vision seeks to establish an advanced national quality and accreditation system based on international standards and best practices and to improve the quality of services provided to persons with disabilities.It is also aligned with Law No. 20 of 2017 on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the National Strategy for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the Economic Modernisation Vision, the Public Sector Modernisation Roadmap, and the Sustainable Development Goals.

Jordan's digital transformation gains momentum as fibre, 5G adoption expand

Sun, 26 Jul 2026 13:58:23 +0300

Jordan Daily - Jordan's digital transformation continues to gain momentum, driven by investment in infrastructure and changing patterns of connectivity and digital consumption, Nael Adwan, Vice Chairman and Secretary General of the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (TRC), said."The latest market indicators suggest that Jordan's digital transformation continues to gain momentum, driven not only by investments in infrastructure but also by evolving patterns of connectivity and digital consumption," Adwan noted in a post seen by Jordan Daily.He said fibre had become the dominant fixed broadband technology, while demand for data services continued to grow across fixed and mobile networks. He also cited the rapid expansion of 5G adoption as evidence that Jordan was building the foundation for next-generation digital applications and innovation.Adwan indicated declining use of SMS and fixed voice services reflected a structural shift toward internet-based communications, adding that the latest indicators highlighted “the importance of evidence-based regulation in supporting investment, innovation, and sustainable digital growth.”

Guterres meets Syria’s Sharaa on first Damascus visit by UN chief in 17 years

Sun, 26 Jul 2026 06:10:34 +0300

Reuters - UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres pledged help for Syrian reconstruction on Saturday during the first visit to Damascus by a serving United Nations chief since 2009, before the start of a civil war that killed hundreds of thousands and displaced millions.

Syrian President Ahmad Al-Sharaa received Guterres at the presidential palace in Damascus, state news agency SANA said, without providing further details.

“No country emerges from a very severe conflict and rebuilds itself on its own,” Guterres said after the talks with Sharaa at a joint press conference with Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shaibani.

“We must help Syria in its determination and resolve to do so,” Guterres added.

Shaibani reiterated Syria’s request for more support from the international community, especially the European Union.

He said Guterres’ talks with Sharaa — which Shaibani also attended — had focused ‌on increasing UN ‌support for reconstruction and a government plan to close displacement camps.

Sharaa, the former head ‌of ⁠Al-Qaeda’s affiliate ⁠in Syria, was until November 2025 under terrorism-related sanctions imposed by the UN Security Council.Milestone for Syria's leadersGuterres’ visit is another milestone for Syria since rebels ousted President Bashar Assad in late 2024, ending the war that began in 2011 and launching a transitional period steered by a Sharaa.

At the time, Guterres described “the end of the Syrian dictatorship” under Assad as a sign of hope for the region.

In a post on X on Saturday for what he described as a “visit of solidarity,” Guterres said: “The United Nations stands with Syria at this pivotal moment.”Guterres will also meet other government officials and representatives ⁠of Syrian civil society and is expected to address the country’s parliament on Monday, ‌UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said earlier this week.

He will underline that the ‌country has an opportunity “not only to recover from conflict, but also to lay the foundations for a future for Syria that will ‌be more stable, more inclusive, and more prosperous for all Syrians,” Dujarric said. Return to global stageGuterres is expected ‌to be in Damascus for several days, but the full schedule of his visit has not been released by his office.

He is visiting just weeks after two bombs exploded near a hotel in Damascus where French President Emmanuel Macron spent the night, overshadowing the first visit to Syria by a European Union head of state since Assad was toppled.

Sharaa’s government is seeking to rebuild Syria’s international ties ‌and economy after nearly 14 years of war and decades of isolation under Assad family rule.

The transition has been marred by two major episodes of sectarian bloodshed that ⁠have tested Sharaa’s repeated ⁠pledges to protect Syria’s religious minorities. Nearly 1,500 Alawites — the sect that Assad is from — were killed in Syria’s coastal region last year by government-aligned factions, and hundreds of Syrians from the Druze minority were killed months later in the south.

Guterres expressed alarm over both bouts of violence and has called for accountability.

Sharaa, who broke ties with Al-Qaeda in 2016, led an alliance of Islamist rebel factions that ousted Assad in a lightning offensive in December 2024. Since taking power, his government has sought to re-establish Syria’s diplomatic ties to expand beyond Assad’s longtime allies, Russia and Iran.

Last year, Sharaa became the first Syrian president since 1967 to take part in the UN General Assembly in New York. The United States has lifted most sanctions on Syria and US President Donald Trump informed Sharaa earlier this month that he intended to remove Syria from Washington’s list of state sponsors of terrorism. Guterres is also expected during his trip to visit a UN peacekeeping force that has maintained a buffer zone between Israeli and Syrian forces for decades, Dujarric said.

Israeli troops have occupied new areas in southern Syria after Assad was ousted. Damascus has demanded they withdraw and return to a 1974 disengagement agreement.

Shorts are not Jordan’s real problem

Sat, 25 Jul 2026 16:32:25 +0300

By: Dr. Haytham EreifejJordan Daily - Voices have recently grown louder in Parliament and across some media platforms, calling for restrictions on certain forms of clothing in public places, including shorts and other garments that may not conform to the personal, religious or social preferences of some individuals.Everyone has the right to hold their own beliefs and to choose the lifestyle and clothing they consider appropriate for themselves and their families. The problem begins when personal conviction is transformed into a demand for binding legislation, and when some attempt to impose their own preferences on society as a whole through the force of law.The question that must be asked clearly is: Where are such demands intended to lead?Are we expected to establish a committee for the promotion of virtue and the prevention of vice? Will self-appointed morality enforcers patrol streets, shopping centres and tourist destinations, monitoring people’s clothing and deciding what is acceptable?Who would set these standards? What length of shorts would be legally permitted? Would different rules apply to men and women? Would tourists be subjected to the same requirements? Who would be responsible for assessing and penalising alleged violations?These questions may sound sarcastic, but they reveal the danger of vague legislation that opens the door to arbitrary enforcement, social guardianship and unjustified interference in people’s private lives.A modern state does not manage the wardrobes of its citizens. It does not measure morality by the length of fabric or turn police officers and public employees into fashion inspectors. Its responsibility is to protect rights and freedoms and to apply the law to conduct that causes real harm to society or violates the rights of others.The Jordanian Constitution affirms that personal freedom is protected and that any infringement upon public rights, freedoms or the sanctity of private life is punishable by law. The Penal Code already contains provisions addressing indecent acts and gestures committed in public places.Jordan’s legal system therefore already possesses the necessary tools to deal with conduct that genuinely violates public decency or harms others. There is no need to create new offences based on the type, length or appearance of a person’s clothing.A clear distinction must be maintained between clothing that some people dislike and an indecent act prohibited by law. Disapproval does not turn clothing into a crime, and social conservatism does not grant any individual or institution the right to impose guardianship over the personal choices of others.Freedom is not absolute. It is limited by the law, public order and the rights of others. However, restrictions on freedom cannot be based on personal impressions or changing social preferences. They must be clearly defined, necessary and proportionate to a genuine threat.Expressions such as “public taste” or “inappropriate appearance”, when left without precise legal definitions, create confusion and inconsistency. What one person considers inappropriate may appear normal to another. What is acceptable in one place may be viewed differently elsewhere. Personal taste must not become the basis for criminal liability.Jordanian men and women have always been known for moderation, dignity and respect for the values of their society. Jordan has never needed morality police to pursue people because of their clothing. Our traditions and cultural identity are deeply rooted and do not require enforcement through punishment and prosecution.Imposing values by force may produce the opposite result. Genuine morality is developed through education, awareness, good example and personal conviction- not through fear of punishment.Those who truly wish to protect society’s values should focus on improving education, strengthening culture, supporting families and confronting violence, drug abuse, corruption and unemployment. Public morality should not be reduced to a piece of fabric.Such proposals would also be difficult to enforce in practice and would not provide genuine solutions to any social problem. Too often, these issues become political and media distractions that consume public attention while covering up larger and more urgent national concerns.A Jordanian struggling with unemployment, rising living costs and weak public services will not see their life improve because shorts have been prohibited. A young person searching for employment will not find a job through new clothing regulations. Schools, hospitals and the national economy will not improve through campaigns monitoring citizens’ appearance.The greater danger lies in where such demands could lead. What begins today with shorts may tomorrow extend to the colour and style of clothing, hairstyles, music, art, books and cultural activities, eventually imposing a single social model and excluding anyone who does not conform.At that point, the debate would no longer be about clothing. It would become an attempt to reshape society through coercion and to classify citizens as more or less religious, moral or socially acceptable, according to standards established by those who have granted themselves the authority to judge others.This approach would not protect society. It would divide it, weaken its national fabric and create unnecessary conflict.Jordan is founded on moderation, pluralism and coexistence. Turning social differences into a confrontation between conservatives and non-conservatives would create tensions the country does not need while it faces serious economic, political and regional challenges.Restrictions of this kind could also affect tourism, investment and Jordan’s international image. Tourists visiting Petra, Wadi Rum, Aqaba and the Dead Sea should not feel that they may be questioned because of their clothing. Investors seek stable and open countries governed by clear laws, not environments where rules change according to social pressure or temporary political campaigns.Transforming Jordan into a closed society would not necessarily produce greater virtue. It could instead damage tourism and investment, increase unemployment and encourage qualified professionals and young people to leave in search of environments that respect their freedom and creativity.Defending individual freedom does not mean promoting social disorder or disrespecting society’s values. It means respecting human dignity and the right to choose, provided that no one violates the rights of others or commits an act prohibited by law.Jordan is a state of law and institutions, not a state of social inspection committees. It is a country of moderation, diversity andopenness, and it should not become a closed model that monitors the personal details of people’s lives.Our real crises are unemployment, poverty, weak productivity and the decline of education and culture. They also lie in the inability of some officials to offer meaningful solutions, leading them to escape into marginal battles that neither feed the hungry, employ the unemployed, build schools nor strengthen the national economy.

U.S. Embassy in Jordan urges Americans to remain vigilant amid regional tensions

Sat, 25 Jul 2026 07:38:32 +0300

Jordan Daily - The U.S. Embassy in Jordan has urged American citizens to exercise heightened caution, warning that the security environment across the Middle East remains volatile and could escalate without warning.In a security alert issued on Friday, the embassy said Americans in the region should prepare for possible flight cancellations, periodic airspace closures, and other travel disruptions. It advised travelers to check flight status directly with airlines or through Queen Alia International Airport.The embassy also urged Americans outside the Middle East to reconsider travel to and through the region.It warned that U.S. diplomatic facilities and other American interests overseas could be targeted by Iran or groups supportive of Iran. The embassy advised U.S. citizens in Jordan to avoid military bases and to follow instructions from Jordanian authorities, including sirens and other emergency warnings, while monitoring official travel advisories.

WFP warns of deeper cuts in Gaza aid due to donor fatigue

Sat, 25 Jul 2026 07:16:23 +0300

Reuters -The UN World Food Programme warned on Friday it would have to make deeper cuts to its aid in Gaza, where it supports 70 percent of the population, unless additional funding is secured.The comments come after the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, the global hunger monitor, said more than two-thirds of Gazans could face acute hunger by the end ‌of the year as ‌humanitarian agencies cut aid flows due ‌to ⁠funding shortages.The majority of ⁠the population are reliant on aid supplies following two years of war, repeated displacement and severe restrictions imposed by Israel on aid deliveries.The monitor’s findings showed the number of people facing acute hunger had fallen to 1.2 million between mid-April and the end of June.However, that level is expected to rise to ⁠more than 1.4 million people, or 67 percent, by December, ‌it said, warning that the gains ‌are at risk as assistance begins to decline.“Without sufficient funding, ‌we will be forced to scale back assistance for people ‌who depend on it for survival,” Smith told reporters in Geneva via video link from Rome.While increased operational costs linked to the war in Iran, which sparked a surge in oil prices and supply ‌chain disruptions, have been a factor, the main issue is donor fatigue as global attention shifts ⁠elsewhere, Smith ⁠said, without giving details of what funding had been lost.WFP said it needed more than $420 million to maintain operations in Gaza and the occupied West Bank through the end of the year.This month, cash assistance for 75,000 people was reduced by 25 percent, while 220,000 households saw food rations halved, Smith said. By October, WFP will have to make much deeper cuts unless additional funding is secured, Smith said.Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs says Israel does not restrict the entry of food into Gaza and has facilitated the entry of more than 1.8 million tons of food into the enclave since an October 2025 ceasefire.

Jordan's tourism sector needs support

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 06:55:14 +0300

By : Daoud KuttabJordan Daily - The Jordanian tourism sector is passing through one of its most difficult periods, as the escalating repercussions of regional wars and tensions continue to batter inbound travel. Despite Jordan’s ongoing efforts to maintain security and stability, the conflict environment has already translated into fewer flight departures, weaker hotel bookings, and declining tourism performance. Rather than treating this as a passing fluctuation, the Jordanian government should consider allocating a relatively modest support package—no more than ten million dinars—to help the sector weather the shock and remain operational. This is especially urgent given that Jordan’s economy continues to show resilience even amid a turbulent regional outlook.Recent Central Bank data show that tourism revenue fell by 5.3% in the first half of 2026, reaching approximately $3.5 billion, even as June alone recorded a 7% increase. The overall figures underscore that regional conditions remain the dominant factor shaping the sector’s trajectory.Similarly, data from both the Ministry of Tourism and the Central Bank point to a continuing decline in both the number of international visitors and tourism receipts. Jordan welcomed about 6.35 million visitors in 2023, generating nearly 7.4 billion Jordanian dinars in tourism revenue—the highest level in the sector’s history. Yet this record has not shielded the industry from the downward pressure of events since late 2023.Nabeh Riyal, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Jordan Inbound Tour Operators Association, told Radio Al-Balad that security and geopolitical developments in the region have an immediate impact on tourism in Jordan. He noted that any regional escalation is reflected quickly in travel decisions—whether through suspended flights or advisories issued by some countries—leading to an unprecedented contraction in activity.“The sector is facing extremely difficult circumstances,” Riyal said. The current crisis has worsened a decline that was already underway: since the war began last March, most foreign tour groups have canceled bookings. Even indicators for the coming tourist season—September, October, and November—remain weak, largely because the advance bookings that normally define this period have failed to materialize.Jordan’s performance in 2023—6.35 million visitors and 7.4 billion dinars in tourism revenue—was exceptional. But successive regional developments have since brought a gradual decline, particularly from European and American markets.Hussain Hilalat, Vice President of the Jordan Hotels Association, agrees that the hotel sector has not yet recovered since the outbreak of the Gaza war. He emphasizes that the reduction in flights—especially by low-cost carriers—has directly affected occupancy rates, with destinations that depend heavily on foreign tourists hit hardest, above all Petra.Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities figures indicate that in the first four months of this year, the number of international visitors fell by roughly 5% compared with the same period last year, while overnight tourists declined by 7.8%. This has translated into pressure on occupancy rates, especially in sites reliant on foreign arrivals such as Petra and Wadi Rum.Despite extensive media coverage and widespread concern, the government has yet to produce a practical, effective plan to rescue an industry accumulating debt and unable to meet salary obligations. Even with flexibility from the Social Security Corporation, businesses that cannot pay salaries will remain unable to respond—no matter how lenient the measures may be.The Minister of Tourism and Antiquities is expected to champion the sector by presenting a carefully designed strategy—constructed in consultation with stakeholders, particularly the private tourism industry. The strategy should aim to prevent the erosion of long-established institutions that are currently struggling to cover salaries and social security contributions. Meanwhile, regional instability continues, and international media attention to Jordan as part of the broader conflict narrative has not abated.Elsewhere in the region, neighboring countries have moved faster—offering financial packages that include support for tour-operator salaries and grants for hotel rehabilitation. Jordan’s Ministry of Tourism launched a program that combines government support and direct grants for hotel renovation and modernization, along with salary support and assistance for tour operators and inbound guides affected by the booking slump. The ministry also allocated significant resources to domestic tourism campaigns to sustain local demand.Yet we have not seen a clear official statement—or a concrete rescue strategy—from the Ministry of Tourism or the Jordanian government. While obligations continue to accumulate, near the end of another month there is still no indication that the government will provide even a limited share of what is needed to cover salaries or social security contributions. The longer the response is delayed, the more likely it becomes that institutions will reach a point of no return.It is reasonable to argue that, if the government—together with the Ministry of Tourism—were to compile accurate figures on urgent needs, it would become clear that a relatively small injection from the Central Bank—around 10 to 20 million dinars—could provide a genuine window of opportunity. With timely support, tourism offices, hotel owners, and tourism facilities could stabilize their operations, with the hope of a sector recovery by the end of the year—or at least from September onward.

King meets with heads of leading UK companies in London

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 06:14:07 +0300

Jordan Daily - His Majesty King Abdullah II met in London on Thursday with senior executives and founders of leading companies operating in the United Kingdom, to discuss prospects for expanding economic cooperation across a number of promising sectors.During the meeting, His Majesty emphasised the importance of the long-standing partnership between Jordan and the UK, and the commitment of both countries to strengthening economic and trade relations across multiple industries.The King noted that the meeting served as a valuable opportunity to deepen communication, share insights, and explore areas of mutual interest to support the development of stronger, more impactful partnerships.His Majesty underscored the importance of leveraging Jordan’s investment advantages to expand Jordanian-British partnerships, pointing to Jordan’s solid industrial foundation, efficient logistical networks, and access to major regional and global markets.The meeting brought together representatives from companies operating in the automotive, mining, energy, engineering, chemical, and pharmaceutical sectors, as well as the apparel and textile industries, the design and development of theme parks, and film and television production industries, alongside heads of chambers of commerce and industry in both countries.The attendees voiced their commitment to broadening bilateral cooperation and pursuing joint ventures across both countries’ public and private sectors.Director of the Office of His Majesty Alaa Batayneh, Minister of Industry, Trade, and Supply Yarub Qudah, Minister of Investment Tareq Abu Ghazaleh, and Jordan’s Ambassador to the UK Manar Dabbas attended the meeting.

What role do remittances play in Jordan?

Thu, 30 Jul 2026 20:56:51 +0300

By: Ibrahim RihaniJordan Daily - Understanding the role remittances play in Jordan is key to understanding the macroeconomic environment the country faces. Remittances are one of the largest external financing channels for the Jordanian economy, running at roughly 8 to 9 per cent of GDP and ranging from $3 to $4.5 billion annually, depending on the year. In 2025, remittances reached $4.5 billion, more than double the $2 billion in foreign direct investment the country attracted the same year. Foreign direct investment is typically prioritised in economic commentary on Jordan, while remittances and their potential fluctuations as a result of various shocks likely play a bigger role.Remittances are treated as one of Jordan's automatic stabilisers. Jordanians working in the Gulf send money home, household consumption is smoothed, the external account receives an inflow, and the assumption is that this happens exactly when the domestic economy needs it.To begin, I'll define two important concepts that will be discussed throughout this article. Consumption smoothing refers to households maintaining relatively stable consumption during temporary income shocks through drawing on savings, credit, or remittances. Second, and more importantly, procyclicality and countercyclicality. A mechanism is countercyclical when it delivers more inflows precisely when the receiving economy is doing worse or is entering a downturn, partially offsetting the downturn, and procyclical when it delivers more inflows precisely when the receiving economy is already doing better, reinforcing the cycle rather than smoothing it. The distinction matters because the same dollar of inflow is not worth the same amount in every state. An inflow arriving when income is already low, and consumption is under pressure, carries far more value than the same inflow arriving when income is already high, and consumption is not constrained. This is why countercyclicality is the property that is actually needed for a stabiliser such as remittances. The whole appeal of remittances as a stabiliser rests on the assumption that they behave in the countercyclical way, however empirical studies on Jordan generally find that remittances respond more strongly to conditions in GCC labour markets than to domestic Jordanian business-cycle fluctuations. The size of the remittance flow is set by the Gulf, which is a function of oil. When oil demand and prices are elevated, and OPEC+ production is accommodative, Gulf governments spend, construction and services expand, expatriate labour demand strengthens, and the Jordanian expatriate wages from which remittances are generated grow. When oil revenues compress, Gulf fiscal consolidation follows, expatriate hiring freezes, and nationalisation policy is harshly enforced precisely when the labour market tightens for nationals. Remittance supply is procyclical with the Gulf's own cycle, and the Gulf's cycle is the oil cycle.The states of the world where oil demand is strong are also states where global growth is strong, and global growth lifts Jordan through channels that have nothing to do with remittances. Tourism income rises with global travel demand. Gulf grants and deposits increase because a fiscally comfortable Gulf is a more generous one. Demand for Jordanian exports strengthens with global growth, and debt rollover terms improve with global risk appetite. The state in which remittances surge is the same state in which Jordan's economy is already supported through every other external channel. Remittances and the domestic economy both benefit from the same common factor, global growth, and move together with it procyclically.The relevant test is not how remittances behave in the good state. It is what happens in a Jordan-specific negative shock: a domestic credit contraction, a fiscal consolidation episode, a local unemployment spike with no connection to Gulf labour markets. There is no mechanical channel through which this increases Gulf remittance supply. Gulf labour demand, Gulf wages, and Gulf fiscal policy respond to oil, not to conditions inside Jordan.What does move is remittance demand from the Jordanian side. A household facing income loss will ask relatives abroad for support, and the relatives will often respond. This is an altruistic transfer through family networks, not a systematic increase in the inflows of remittances. It depends on the sender having room in their own budget, and it is bounded by an income that is itself set by the Gulf cycle. The response is small relative to the shock it would need to offset. In the state of the world where Jordan needs a countercyclical inflow, the mechanism that would deliver it barely exists.This has direct implications for the balance of payments and thus has monetary consequences. A large share of remittances are not spent immediately, instead saved in dinar deposits at local banks, so behaviorally the flow also functions as an inflow supporting bank liquidity, increasing foreign reserves at the CBJ. Because the flow is instead tied to the Gulf cycle, it does not strengthen in a Jordan-specific downturn, and foreign reserves receive no offsetting lift precisely when pressure on foreign reserves is highest, pressuring the exchange rate peg.The CBJ has two ways to defend the peg. One is to let the dinars needed to hold the exchange rate show up on their own, through remittances, Gulf grants, and other inflows that arrive without the central bank having to do anything. The other is to pay for them by raising interest rates high enough above the US rate that foreign capital gets pulled in to cover the shortage.The first option only works if those inflows show up precisely when the economy is under stress countercyclically, since that's when the peg actually needs defending. But remittances don't behave that way. So when Jordan hits a rough patch for its own reasons, remittances don't increase systematically to help.That leaves the second option carrying more of the weight. The CBJ ends up having to rely harder on high interest rates to attract the capital instead, keeping the rate differential over the Fed wider than it would need to be if remittances actually moved the way people assume they do.The cost of this asymmetry is not limited to the periods when a shock actually arrives. Because the CBJ knows in advance that remittances will not step in during a purely domestic downturn, it cannot run policy as though that cushion exists only to be activated when needed. Large interest rate differentials with the US become something closer to a permanent insurance premium than an emergency response, priced in indefinitely rather than deployed only in the bad state, since the peg's credibility depends on never being tested to the point of visible strain. A genuinely countercyclical remittance channel would have freed up exactly this kind of monetary space, letting the CBJ run a smaller differential with the Fed’s rate in normal times because it could trust remittances and foreign inflows to increase automatically when Jordan actually needed it. Without that trust, the buffer has to be carried at all times instead, and every percentage of it is a basis point of investment priced out at the margin, projects that would clear the hurdle rate in a Jordan with a genuinely countercyclical external buffer but do not clear it in the Jordan that actually exists.Typically, a short-run oil price shock (or any short run shock) was assumed, in the standard literature, to have small long-run implications for economic growth, since once the shock passes and oil prices stabilize, the economy simply returns to its previous state. However, the investment and economic environment in Jordan does not work that way. A firm facing tighter domestic credit conditions either postpones its investment to a later period, makes a smaller investment given the tight conditions, or cancels it outright. Since capital compounds, a dinar invested today grows larger than the same dinar invested a period later, because by the time that later period arrives, today's dinar has already been earning returns, the delayed one hasn't. That means if firms choose not to invest now in capital expenditure or any other form of investment, the Jordanian economy ends up smaller than it would have been had that dinar been invested in the original period, since it loses exactly the returns a dinar invested later never gets the chance to earn. Which is why these short-run oil and other shocks that hit Jordan, postponing, shrinking, or cancelling investment because it no longer clears the breakeven rate, end up making the economy permanently smaller as a result.Given how tightly Jordan's financing conditions track a volatile, short-cycle Gulf oil market, this is not an occasional accident but a recurring structural feature: many recurring small, transitory external shocks such as oil prices that have nothing to do with Jordan's domestic economy, each leaving a small, permanent scar on the investment stock that never had the chance to compound.If the underlying problem is that Jordan's external stabilisers are synced with the wrong business cycle which leads to indefinite tight monetary conditions in order to protect the peg and keep inflation in the target range, then the policy objective becomes to build domestic stabilisers that offset, rather than reinforce, those external fluctuations. Rather than resorting to austerity that only tightens when external inflows force the issue, the government should establish a credible fiscal framework built on rules rather than discretion, one that ties public expenditure directly to the cycle its major external inflows actually follow. The first component is the Gulf cycle behind remittances and grants, so when these inflows are strong, government spending falls, and reserves accumulate, and when they weaken, the government draws on those same reserves instead of announcing sudden cuts under external pressure. Subsequently, letting creditors price a debt path that does not depend on discretionary decisions taken every time a government changes. Through this, the premium the CBJ carries above the Fed's policy rate could be lowered, since Jordan's fiscal path would be seen as sustainable and the peg's credibility would rest less on the interest rate differential alone, thus overall risk associated with Jordan as the sovereign would decrease and investors would demand a lower required rate of return. The investment that had been rationed out at the margin under tighter conditions would then clear the hurdle rate instead.The same architecture should extend to Jordan's export base more broadly. Export revenues, whether from potash, phosphate, garments, or other tradable sectors, move with global demand conditions largely outside Jordan's control, and the same rule should apply: when export demand is strong, government spending falls and reserves accumulate, and when they weaken, the government draws on those reserves rather than announcing sudden cuts under external pressure, protecting exposed exporters like Arab Potash and Jordan Phosphate Mines from losses that erode balance sheets and future export capacity during a cycle they did not cause and cannot control. Oil should run on the same logic, raised when prices are low so the treasury captures that fiscal space while the pump price barely moves, and lowered when prices are high so the tariff absorbs the spike instead of passing it through to consumers and firms. None of these rules does much alone, but together they turn some of Jordan's least controllable revenue and cost exposures into a stabilisation framework, the kind of symmetric, precommitted mechanism that austerity can never substitute for, with a narrow.Ibrahim Rihani finished his masters in Economics and has an interest in monetary and fiscal policy in Jordan.

Building for the World Cup, not the Asian Cup: Lessons from Japan and Australia for West Asia

Thu, 23 Jul 2026 11:08:06 +0300

Dr Fadi MaayahCurtin University, AustraliaJordan Daily - The recent FIFA World Cup performances of Japan and Australia provide a valuable blueprint for the future of Asian football. While many nations continue to judge success by regional trophies and short-term results, Japan and Australia have embraced a different philosophy: building squads capable of competing consistently on the world stage.Their success is no accident. It is the product of long-term planning, investment in youth development and a commitment to preparing for future World Cups rather than focusing solely on immediate tournament success. Japan is perhaps the best example of strategic football development in Asia. For decades, the Japan Football Association (JFA) has built a pathway connecting schools, academies, professional clubs and national teams. The aim has never been simply to dominate Asia but to compete with the world's best.One of Japan's greatest strengths is its depth. The country effectively has two international-quality squads. While an experienced senior team competes at major tournaments, younger players gain valuable experience through Olympic competitions, youth World Cups, international friendlies and regional tournaments, including the Asian Cup. By the time these players reach the World Cup stage, they have already accumulated significant international exposure.Japan's "Players First" philosophy focuses on producing world-class footballers rather than chasing youth tournament victories. Players such as T. Kubo, Z. Suzuki and K. Nakamura were exposed to senior international football well before reaching their peak years, accelerating their development through experience alongside established internationals. Australia has increasingly adopted a similar approach. Under Tony Popovic, the Socceroos have deliberately introduced younger players into the senior environment while maintaining a core group of experienced leaders. Emerging talents such as A. Circati, N. Irankunda, J. Bos and P. Okon-Engstler have gained valuable exposure against elite opposition, not simply to impact the current cycle but to prepare them for the future.This approach reflects a clear understanding that successful national teams are built across multiple tournament cycles. Experience gained at 19, 20 or 21 years of age can become a major advantage when those players reach their peak four years later. Australia's broader talent development initiatives also demonstrate a growing focus on long-term player pathways and succession planning.The lessons for countries such as Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Iraq and Oman are significant. In Jordan, much of the media discussion currently centres on winning the next AFC Asian Cup. While regional success is important, the bigger picture should be preparing for sustained success at the global level.The ultimate objective should not simply be lifting an Asian trophy. It should be building a national team capable of making a deep run at the 2030 FIFA World Cup in Morocco, Spain and Portugal. Achieving that goal requires a shift in thinking.Rather than selecting squads solely to maximise short-term results, federations should focus on developing balanced teams featuring experienced internationals alongside the nation's most promising young players. Future stars must be given meaningful international opportunities today if they are to become world-class performers tomorrow.Japan has shown that occasional short-term sacrifices can produce long-term gains. Australia is increasingly demonstrating the same willingness to invest in youth. Both understand that tournaments such as the Asian Cup can serve not only as competitions to win but also as valuable development platforms for future World Cup success.The message for West Asian football is clear. Long-term planning, early exposure of young players, continuity between youth and senior national teams, and investment in coaching, talent identification and sport science are all essential ingredients of success. Japan's rise to become Asia's leading football nation was not built in one tournament cycle; it was the result of decades of planning and development.For Jordan, Saudi Arabia and other ambitious nations, the benchmark should not be the next Asian Cup alone. The real goal must be to build strong, balanced and experienced squads capable of competing with the world's best at the 2030 FIFA World Cup. The countries that begin preparing now will be the ones best positioned to succeed when that moment arrives.

Malaysian students in Jordan, Egypt strengthen ties with EMJ through courtesy visit

Thu, 23 Jul 2026 10:41:55 +0300

Jordan Daily - Malaysian students studying in Jordan and a group of their counterparts from Al-Azhar University in Egypt paid a courtesy visit to the home of Dr. Zeyad Al Azzam, Head of Student Affairs and Alumni at Education Malaysia Jordan (EMJ), as part of efforts to strengthen engagement with the Malaysian student community.The gathering provided an opportunity for students to discuss their academic progress, well-being and experiences of studying abroad. Dr. Zeyad reaffirmed EMJ's commitment to supporting Malaysian students in Jordan through regular engagement and student welfare initiatives.A key topic of discussion was Arabic language acquisition through immersion. Dr. Zeyad encouraged students to communicate regularly with local communities, saying consistent daily interaction and cultural engagement were essential to developing language proficiency.Students from Egypt shared their experiences studying Arabic, noting that Jordan offers a conducive environment for language learning because the local dialect is generally closer to Modern Standard Arabic, helping learners improve both formal and conversational skills.EMJ said initiatives such as the Ziarah Mahabbah complement students' academic development by promoting personal growth, cultural understanding and emotional well-being. The entire programme was conducted in Arabic to provide participants with practical language immersion.

China's defense attaché says PLA to strengthen modernization ahead of centenary

Thu, 23 Jul 2026 10:31:00 +0300

Jordan Daily - China's defense attaché to Jordan said on Wednesday that the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) would continue to modernize ahead of its centenary next year while reaffirming Beijing's support for peaceful development, regional stability and a two-state solution to the Palestinian issue.Speaking at a reception marking the 99th anniversary of the founding of the PLA, Senior Colonel Li Pengfei said China would achieve the PLA's centenary goal in 2027 by further modernizing its national defense and military capabilities.Li said the PLA would provide "strategic support" for what he described as the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation and contribute to global peace and development.Addressing international affairs, Li said the Middle East remained a source of concern amid ongoing tensions. He said China opposed actions that infringe on the sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of other countries, adding that military conflict was not the solution to disputes and warning against further regional escalation.Quoting Chinese President Xi Jinping, Li said China remained committed to peaceful development and to building what Beijing describes as "a community with a shared future for humanity."Li praised Jordan, under King Abdullah II, as a stabilizing force in the Middle East and said China is ready to strengthen coordination with Amman to promote regional peace, stability and development.On the Palestinian issue, Li said the only fair and broadly recognized solution is the two-state solution, adding that China would continue to support the Palestinian people's legitimate national rights and international efforts aimed at achieving justice and lasting peace.

Prime minister opens 40th Jerash Festival

Thu, 23 Jul 2026 07:03:00 +0300

Jordan Daily - Prime Minister Jafar Hassan, deputising for King Abdullah II, on Wednesday opened the 40th Jerash Festival for Culture and Arts with a ceremony at the ancient Roman city of Jerash, launching one of the kingdom's largest annual cultural events.Hassan lit the festival torch at the North Theatre, officially opening this year's edition under the theme "A Legacy Extends... Generations Meet."Minister of Culture and Chairman of the Festival’s Higher Committee Mustafa Rawashdeh said the festival had become a leading cultural platform in Jordan and the wider Arab region, promoting artistic exchange and intercultural dialogue over four decades.He said the festival, held under royal patronage, reflected Jordan's commitment to preserving its cultural heritage while embracing contemporary artistic expression. He described Jerash as a historic crossroads of trade and culture that continues to provide a venue for artistic and intellectual exchange.Rawashdeh said the festival's continuity over 40 years demonstrated Jordan's stability and resilience despite regional challenges, adding that organisers were using modern technology to engage younger audiences and promote the kingdom's cultural heritage.Mohammad Bani Yasin, chairman of the Greater Jerash Municipal Committee, said the festival remained an important showcase of Jordanian cultural identity and highlighted the role of culture in fostering dialogue and public awareness.The opening ceremony featured a production marking the festival's 40th anniversary, tracing the evolution of Jordanian music from traditional folklore to contemporary genres through live performances, orchestral music, a choir, visual projections and modern lighting.Jordanian performers Omar Al Abdallat, Hussein Salman, Aziz Maraka, Nedaa Shrara and Issam Najjar took part in the show, which concluded with the annual lighting of the festival torch.The festival's public programme begins on Thursday and runs through Aug. 2.

King visits Farnborough International Airshow 2026

Thu, 23 Jul 2026 06:30:29 +0300

Jordan Daily - His Majesty King Abdullah on Wednesday visited Farnborough International Airshow 2026, in the United Kingdom.During a tour of the exhibition, which connects leaders and innovators in the global aerospace, defence, and space industries, His Majesty viewed pavilions showcasing the latest advancements in the aviation and aerospace industries and technologies, according to a Royal Court statement.The tour included visits to the exhibits of international companies specialising in the development of electric propulsion systems for aircraft, drones and their systems, drone-based cargo services, AI-powered aircraft systems, electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) technology, the development of urban air mobility infrastructure, AI-powered drones, and the field of engineering design, the statement said.More than 1,400 specialist companies from 41 countries are taking part in the Farnborough International Airshow 2026, which is one of the largest international exhibitions in the aviation and defence sectors.

The Abdali renews Amman International Film Festival -Awal Film partnership

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 13:06:57 +0300

Jordan Daily - The Abdali is renewing its partnership with the Amman International Film Festival – Awal Film by hosting a series of activities from its seventh edition at The Boulevard. The festival is scheduled to take place from 26 July to 3 August, 2026, under the theme ‘Beyond the Frame’.This partnership builds on a years-long collaboration between The Abdali and the festival, underlining a shared commitment to supporting the arts and film industry while opening its spaces to cultural experiences that invite audiences of all ages to engage with cinema at the heart of Amman. As part of this year’s programme, The Boulevard will host multiple film screenings at its theatre area, alongside specialised workshops and accompanying activities. Festival-inspired visual installations and decorative elements will also be featured across various spaces, creating a celebratory atmosphere that captures the spirit of the event and enriches the visitor experience.Commenting on the occasion, H.E. Amer Al Fayez, President and Chairman of Abdali Investment and Development, said, “Cinema is a universal language that brings people closer together, connects cultures and gives voice to inspiring human stories. We are very proud to expand on our partnership with the Amman International Film Festival – Awal Film, which continues to grow as an important platform for creativity and emerging talent. We eagerly look forward to welcoming festival visitors to The Boulevard this year and sharing in the activities of its seventh edition.”The Amman International Film Festival – Awal Film is widely recognised as one of the region’s leading film events. Dedicated to celebrating first achievements in filmmaking, with a particular focus on Arab cinema, it combines film screenings with professional programmes that support filmmakers and present opportunities for networking and project development.By hosting the festival’s activities at The Boulevard, The Abdali continues to strengthen its position as an integrated urban destination that brings together business, lifestyle, entertainment and culture. Through its diverse public spaces, it offers visitors, families and young people the opportunity to engage with enriching artistic experiences in an open and accessible setting.

King departs for UK

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 09:10:46 +0300

Jordan Daily - His Majesty King Abdullah II on Tuesday departed on a visit to the United Kingdom.During the visit, His Majesty is due to meet with senior executives of leading companies to discuss prospects for expanding economic cooperation between Jordan and the UK. The King will also attend part of the Jordan-United Kingdom Business Forum.His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II was sworn in as Regent, in the presence of Cabinet members.

Industry minister says Jordan secures preferential U.S. tariff agreement to boost exports

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 09:10:16 +0300

By: Business EditorJordan Daily - Jordan has reached a new trade agreement with the United States that will preserve a preferential tariff advantage for Jordanian exports after Washington imposed additional import duties on most countries, Industry, Trade and Supply Minister Yarub Qudah said on Tuesday.Qudah said the agreement followed more than a year of negotiations launched after the United States introduced additional tariffs on imports from most trading partners. It complements, rather than replaces, the U.S.-Jordan Free Trade Agreement, which entered into force in 2001 and continues to exempt qualifying Jordanian goods from U.S. customs duties.Under the new arrangement, Jordan secured an additional tariff rate of 10%, the lowest level granted by Washington and one shared by only a small number of countries, while many others face higher rates, Qudah said.He said the preferential treatment would particularly benefit the garments and textiles sector, which accounts for about 70% of Jordan’s exports to the United States, by improving competitiveness, attracting new investment and creating jobs. Further details on additional incentives for the sector will be announced in the coming days, he added.Qudah said the agreement would also focus on reducing technical and administrative barriers to trade, facilitating the flow of Jordanian and U.S. goods.He noted that U.S. products, including vehicles, have already been exempt from Jordanian customs duties under the 2001 free trade agreement, meaning no new tariff concessions were granted on imports from the United States.The minister said the agreement is expected to take effect at the beginning of next month.

Mitsubishi Power executive Khalid Salem ranked No. 10 in Utilities Middle East Power 50

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 18:23:18 +0300

By: Business EditorJordan Daily - Mitsubishi Power's Middle East executive Khalid Salem has been ranked No. 10 in the 2026 Utilities Middle East Power 50, recognising his leadership in advancing power generation, localisation and lower-carbon energy projects across the region.Salem, who has more than 20 years of leadership experience in the energy and utilities sectors, leads Mitsubishi Power's regional operations and strategy. Since joining the company in 2018, he has overseen the expansion of its presence across the Middle East, aligning Japanese engineering expertise with regional energy priorities, national development agendas and localisation goals.Under his leadership, Mitsubishi Power has secured and delivered major projects across the Gulf, including EWEC's Fujairah F3 power plant and SEWA's Layyah combined-cycle power plant in the United Arab Emirates. In Saudi Arabia, the company has participated in the Rumah-1 and Al-Nairyah-1 independent power projects and the Amiral cogeneration project in Jubail, where it is supplying a hydrogen-ready M501JAC gas turbine for a new 475-megawatt facility. The project marks the first deployment of an M501JAC gas turbine assembled at Mitsubishi Power's Dammam facility.Salem has also helped advance hydrogen initiatives in the region, including Mitsubishi Power's collaboration with Egypt's Alexandria National Refining and Petrochemical Company (ANRPC) to deploy 100% hydrogen-fired industrial boiler technology, supporting industrial decarbonisation.Beyond project delivery, Salem is a regular speaker at industry events including ADIPEC, the World Future Energy Summit, the World Utilities Congress and the World Petroleum Congress, where he discusses energy security, decarbonisation and the future of power generation."Honoured to have been included in this year's Utilities Middle East Power 50!" Salem said in a post seen by Jordan Daily.“This recognition reflects the hard work, dedication, and expertise of the incredible Mitsubishi Power team across the Middle East. Their commitment to delivering for our customers and partners every single day is what makes achievements like this possible.”