By: Dr. Haytham Ereifej
Jordan Daily – Recently, numerous questions and rumors have surfaced on social media platforms, with some speculating whether Jordan is in danger. Many of those raising such concerns are motivated by the desire to attract more views and generate financial gain from social media, exploiting the fears of those who are either hostile to Jordan or who, knowingly or unknowingly, worry about their country. The result is the same: these individuals are capitalizing on viewers’ concerns and attempting to earn money by spreading alarm, often based on statements attributed to the new White House administration or extremists in the Israeli government.
We recognize that the current times are difficult, with economic crises, rising unemployment, and the continued aggression against our Palestinian brothers. Additionally, there is growing arrogance from proponents of the Zionist project, which has expanded into Lebanon and Syria, with Iraq and Yemen potentially being the next targets. Yes, we are facing an unprecedented regional upheaval.
However, despite these challenges, Jordan remains far from the fears being stirred. Jordan has weathered more difficult circumstances in the past, and today, it is stronger and more resilient than ever before. This is due to several factors, which I will outline briefly in this article, with a promise to elaborate on them in future writings.
One key factor is Jordan’s reliance on a well-trained and well-equipped military, most importantly a military with a strong Jordanian identity. The army is embraced by the entire population, drawing recruits from all parts of the country. It is a military made up of young people willing to sacrifice their lives for their land and people, a military that Jordanians are eager to join and wear its proud emblem. This stands in contrast to other countries where youths fled to avoid forced conscription.
Additionally, the Jordanian army has always stood with the people, never against them. It has supported citizens in all situations, even during humanitarian crises like the recent pandemic. This also applies to our security forces, who are similarly trusted and admired. You even see children eager to wear the army’s uniform during school events.
The Jordanian people are united, recognizing the importance of the country’s stability and prosperity. They accept each other, reject divisiveness and extremism, and do not harbor grievances against the leadership or security forces. They trust in a fair judiciary and the rule of law, which provides justice when needed.
On top of this, Jordan is led by wise leadership in King Abdullah II and Crown Prince Hussein, who enjoy widespread popularity. This support is built on the principles of justice, closeness to the people, and humility. The bond between the leadership and the citizens is based on goodwill and mutual respect.
Furthermore, there are promising signs that Jordan’s economic future is bright despite the recent difficult years. The country is poised to benefit from recent regional developments, including the anticipated reconstruction of Syria following political changes. Jordan is well-positioned to be the main gateway for Syria, particularly when the Caesar Act is lifted. Jordan will serve as a bridge between the Gulf countries, Syria, and the world, facilitating projects like gas and oil pipelines, railways, and electricity transmission lines from Egypt to Syria and Lebanon, as well as other projects, such as oil pipelines from Iraq.
All of this should drive us to dispel fear and work with determination to ensure Jordan’s success and sustain its national project. Certainly, this requires all of us, including the current government, to focus on increasing public participation in decision-making and evaluating the political experience, including the last elections. We need to give more space to genuine political parties that can engage with the public and build youth leadership capable of shaping public opinion in favor of the country, steering clear of populism and empty rhetoric. The recent election results were a clear indication that the public is tired of old faces and no longer convinced by them.
At this critical stage, the most important factor remains the economic one. There is an urgent need for legislative reforms that encourage domestic investment and open the door to foreign investments, supported by the stability and security that Jordan enjoys.
A strong, bold, and united Jordan, free from populism, means a more prosperous and stable country. That is the equation, and at its core is the fact that Jordan is not in danger.
