Jordan ready to act across border to respond to threats — minister

AMMAN — Jordan is ready to act even outside its territory in case of a possible external security threat, Interior Minister Hussein Majali reiterated on Sunday.

Majali's remarks came during Sunday's Lower House session in response to MPs' questions on the security situation at the Jaber border crossing with Syria following the Syrian opposition's control of Nasib crossing on the Syrian side.

Majali described the situation in Jaber as “under full control” of Jordanian security bodies after reports about acts of looting at the free zone. 

A number of Jordanian truck drivers complained that their goods and trucks were stolen from the Jordanian-Syrian border by people claiming they were members of the Free Syrian Army.

"The Jordanian Armed Forces and other security bodies are performing their duties on the border with Syria with complete professionalism. Jordan is secure, safe and immune from any threat spillover from Syria," Majali said.

On the thefts at the Jaber-Nasib free zone, Majali dismissed the “exaggerated” value of goods stolen. 

Acknowledging looting, Majali said, however, that only cars and light items were taken from the facility while other precious items remained intact. 

"The value of goods at the free zone stands at $500 million. The value of items stolen is being calculated now."

President of Jordan Free Zones Investors Commission Nabil Rumman told The Jordan Times on Saturday that the estimated losses stood at JD100 million.

"Everything is under control now and there is nothing to worry about. As it did before, Jordan is ready to act outside its territory to avert a possible external security threat."

Last Wednesday, Jordan closed its border with Syria for security reasons.