Jordan Vows to Take Action Against Israel's Attack on Gaza, All Options on the Table
Jordan considers all options in response to Israel's failure to distinguish between military and civilian targets in Gaza. Economic, security, and political ties are reviewed, peace treaty implementation may be suspended.
Jordan has announced that it is considering all options in response to Israel's failure to differentiate between military and civilian targets in its attack on Gaza. Prime Minister Bisher al Khasawneh did not provide specific details on what actions Jordan would take, but stated that all options are on the table. This comes after Jordan recalled its ambassador from Israel and declared Israel's ambassador persona non grata last week. The country is now reviewing its economic, security, and political ties with Israel, and may even suspend further steps in implementing the peace treaty if the situation worsens.
Prime Minister Khasawneh emphasized that Israel's siege of the densely populated Gaza cannot be justified as self-defense. He condemned the Israeli attack for not discriminating between civilian and military targets, noting that it has even extended to safe areas and ambulances. Israel has denied deliberately targeting civilian objects, arguing that Hamas is using civilians as human shields and exploiting ambulances and hospitals for military purposes. However, Jordan maintains that the brutal Israeli attack on Gaza is causing immense harm to innocent civilians.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas has reawakened long-standing fears in Jordan, which is home to a significant population of Palestinian refugees and their descendants. The country is concerned that Israel may seize the opportunity to expel Palestinians from the Israeli-occupied West Bank. Jordanian officials have stated that any attempt to drive Palestinians across the border into Jordan would be seen as a declaration of war.
The Jordanian army has already increased its presence along the borders. These concerns have been at the forefront of discussions between Jordan and US officials, including Secretary of State Antony Blinken. The country's worries will likely be addressed in a meeting with CIA Director William Burns during his upcoming visit to Jordan. As the situation in Gaza continues to escalate, Jordan is determined to take a strong stance against Israel's aggression and ensure the protection of innocent civilians. The country remains committed to finding a peaceful resolution but is prepared to consider all options in order to bring an end to the violence.