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AMMAN — Jordan on Tuesday condemned the decision by Israel, as an occupying force, to resume the so-called "land registration and property settlement", especially in Area C of the occupied West Bank. 

A Foreign Ministry statement denounced the move as a blatant violation of international law and a continuation of Israel's efforts to impose its sovereignty over Palestinian land.

Sufian Qudah, the ministry’s spokesperson, said that resuming this policy is in direct violation of international legitimacy and United Nations Security Council resolutions, particularly Resolution 2334, which explicitly condemns all Israeli measures aimed at changing the demographic composition, character and legal status of the Palestinian territories occupied since 1967, including East Jerusalem.

The resolution also reaffirms that all Israeli settlement activities in the Occupied Palestinian Territory are illegal under international law. 

Qudah also cited the advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice, which found Israel's occupation, settlement construction, and annexation of Palestinian land to be illegal. 

He stressed that Israel has no legal sovereignty over any part of the occupied Palestinian territories.

The Foreign Ministry urged the international community to live up to its legal and moral responsibilities by taking concrete steps to stop Israel's military escalation in the occupied West Bank and its ongoing aggression against the Gaza Strip.

The statement called for immediate action to ensure the protection of the Palestinian people, to hold accountable those responsible for violations, and to support the right of the Palestinian people to establish an independent, sovereign state along the June 4, 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.

AMMAN — Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ayman Safadi underlined Jordan's “unlimited” support to Syria in confronting all threats to its security and stability.

Safadi’s remarks came during a joint press conference in Ankara on Monday with his Turkish and Syrian counterparts Hakan Fidan and Asaad Hassan Shaibani.

Safadi said Jordan is committed to assisting Syria in restoring security and stability after years of conflict.

“Our support for Syria is absolute,” Safadi said, adding, “Standing by Syria in the face of any threats to its security and stability is non-negotiable. A stable Syria is a cornerstone of regional stability, and ensuring the Syrian people’s right to a dignified, secure life after years of suffering is a top priority for us.

Safadi said the meeting with the Turkish and Syrian foreign ministers focused on practical steps to help Syria reactivate state institutions, build administrative capacity, and foster economic, trade, and investment cooperation that benefits all parties.

He said that they also discussed joint mechanisms to combat terrorism, particularly the threat posed by the Daesh terror group. “Terrorism is not just a threat to Syria, it threatens the entire region.”

He highlighted an earlier meeting hosted by Jordan that brought together Syria’s neighbouring countries to build a joint institutional framework to fight terrorism and bolster regional security.

“While Syria faces several challenges, there are also great opportunities,” he said. “The more we collaborate and coordinate, the better positioned we are to seize these opportunities for the benefit of the Syrian people.”

Safadi strongly condemned ongoing Israeli military actions in Syria, describing them as a major external threat to Syria’s sovereignty and stability.

“Israel has no right to attack Syrian territory or to stoke division and tension within Syria. Such aggression only brings destruction and will not provide Israel with security.”

He called on the international community to take a clear stance against Israeli interventions and renewed attacks, warning that they undermine regional peace efforts.

“Syria today has a historic opportunity to become a secure, stable state where its citizens can live with dignity. This chance must be supported,” Safadi added, calling for international consensus against both terrorism and foreign interference.

Safadi also stressed the importance of security in southern Syria, which borders Jordan directly.

“Southern Syria is our frontline, our strategic security. We want the south and all of Syria to be safe and stable, free from both terrorism and Israeli threats.”

He said that Jordan is working closely with Syria, Turkey, and Arab states, as well as international partners, to halt Israeli aggression and support Syria’s reconstruction efforts.

“We will continue our efforts until Israel withdraws from all Syrian territory and ceases its interference in Syrian affairs,” he said.

Turning to the situation in Gaza, Safadi condemned the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe caused by Israeli military operations and blockade.

“The Israeli aggression on Gaza must stop. It is unacceptable from the international community to remain silent in the face of such destruction and human suffering.”

Safadi warned that depriving more than two million Palestinians in Gaza of water, food, and medicine constitutes a “war crime and a flagrant violation of international and humanitarian law.”

Safadi called for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, the lifting of the Israeli blockade, and the swift entry of humanitarian aid.

 People in Gaza are dying not just from Israeli bullets, but from hunger, thirst, and lack of medical care. This is a horrific, inhumane situation that demands immediate global intervention.”

He criticised the international community’s inaction and Israel’s refusal to allow aid into Gaza, noting that no assistance had entered the enclave since March 2.

“Children are dying of hunger, hospitals have shut down, and basic life necessities are unavailable. Jordan continues to do all it can to alleviate this humanitarian disaster.”

Safadi underlined Jordan’s aid efforts, including airdrops and ground convoys, which “constituted the second-largest humanitarian air operation since Berlin”.

AMMAN — In the presence of His Majesty King Abdullah and Their Royal Highnesses Crown Prince Hussein, Prince Hashem, Prince El Hassan, and Prince Feisal, HRH Princess Aisha bint Feisal married Kareem Al Mufti on Monday, 12 May 2025.

The marriage ceremony, held at Zahran Palace, was also attended by several members of the Royal family, according to a Royal Court statement. 

The Royal Hashemite Court extends its heartfelt congratulations to HRH Princess Aisha bint Feisal and Kareem Al Mufti, and wishes them a lifetime of happiness.

AMMAN — Ministries and public departments will observe a public holiday on May 25 on the occasion of Independence Day, according to a decision by Prime Minister Jafar Hassan.

The decision excludes ministries and public departments whose work nature necessitates otherwise.

Jordan gained its full independence from the British mandate and was declared a Kingdom on May 25, 1946.

AMMAN — The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources on Monday launched a national programme to support low-income households in installing solar water heaters, offering subsidies of up to 50 per cent to reduce electricity bills and promote clean energy use.

Funded with support from the Italian Ministry of Environment and Energy Security and implemented in partnership with the Jordan Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Fund (JREEEF), the JD5 million programme aims to boost energy efficiency and alleviate economic pressures on vulnerable families, according to a ministry statement.

Speaking at a press conference during the launch, Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Saleh Kharabsheh said that the four-year programme targets the installation of 12,000 solar water heaters across the Kingdom. Eligible beneficiaries include Jordanian families earning a combined monthly income of JD750 or less and owning no more than one vehicle.

"This initiative promotes fairness in government support distribution and empowers low-income households to reduce energy consumption, lower carbon emissions, and save up to JD20 per month on electricity bills," Kharabsheh noted.

JREEEF Executive Director Rasmi Hamzeh said that the programme builds on the fund’s long-standing efforts in the housing sector, dating back to 2015. He underscored the importance of working with donors, banks, and local organisations to maximise outreach and impact.

“Our goal is to install 90,000 solar water heaters by 2035 in line with the Economic Modernisation Vision,” he said, adding that current national penetration stands at 24 per cent.

To simplify access, the Ministry of Energy, in cooperation with the Ministry of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship, launched a digital application platform integrated into the government’s "Sanad" app. Eligible citizens can apply and receive preliminary approval electronically.

Priority will be given to certified local service providers within each governorate. Applicants can choose contractors from a pre-approved list available via the platform or participating banks, the statement said.

During the launch event, Kharabsheh signed cooperation agreements with several civil society organisations to support implementation and outreach efforts.

Further details on the programme, including application steps, eligibility requirements, and system specifications, are available on the Ministry of Energy’s website, JREEEF’s social media channels, and at authorised partner banks.

AMMAN — Minister of Transport Wissam Tahtamouni on Monday met with European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) experts Fabrizio Perelli and Norm Erik to discuss the development of a national maritime strategy and ways to enhance Jordan’s maritime sector.

During the meeting, which was also attended by Jordan Maritime Commission (JMC) Director General Omar Dabbas, Tahtamouni highlighted the sector’s growing significance, describing it as a vital pillar of the national economy and a key link connecting Jordan to global markets.

She emphasised Jordan’s strong partnership with the European Union and commended EMSA’s ongoing technical support in developing the Kingdom’s maritime transport sector, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported.

"The visit of EMSA experts presents an important opportunity to exchange expertise and align efforts to implement international best practices," the minister said, reaffirming Jordan’s commitment to international maritime agreements and the adoption of updated policies for the safe handling of dangerous goods.

The discussions focused on viable policy options within the framework of the upcoming national maritime strategy and the broader objectives the government seeks to achieve. The participants stressed the importance of technical cooperation in formulating a sustainable, forward-looking strategy.

Perelli described the partnership between EMSA, the Ministry of Transport, and the JMC as a "constructive model" for advancing maritime safety in the region. He noted that the presence of EMSA experts in Jordan is aimed at supporting the development of a strategy that meets international standards and serves both national and regional interests.

He also highlighted the importance of SAFEMED V, an EU-funded project supporting Mediterranean countries in implementing International Maritime Organisation (IMO) regulations and improving maritime safety standards.

Erik commended the Ministry of Transport and its partners for their coordination efforts, stressing the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders to ensure the success of the strategy. He added that the EMSA team would hold field meetings in Aqaba to discuss implementation plans and address technical issues on the ground.

AMMAN — President of the Irbid Chamber of Commerce Mohammad Shouha and members of the board of directors on Sunday received Turkish Ambassador to Jordan Yakup Caymazoglu, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen economic and cultural cooperation between the two countries.

The ambassador was accompanied by Director of the Yunus Emre Turkish Cultural Centre Ansar Fırat and Commercial Attaché Mehmet Ural, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported. 

The visit aimed to deepen bilateral ties and explore opportunities that benefit the business community in Irbid Governorate.

Shouha welcomed the Turkish delegation, commending the long-standing relationship between Jordan and Turkey. He also stressed the importance of enhancing trade partnerships and promoting exchange between business leaders from both countries.

Shouha also highlighted Irbid’s strategic economic role as Jordan’s northern gateway, noting its advantageous location and robust local and regional economic networks, making it an attractive hub for investment and commerce.

Both sides also discussed challenges facing trade and investment, including customs procedures, transportation logistics and licensing requirements. They also underscored the need to strengthen cooperation in tourism, education and cultural exchange.

The discussion also focused on regional political challenges and their impact on economic stability, emphasising the importance of regional cooperation and economic integration to overcome geopolitical obstacles.

Ambassador Caymazoglu reaffirmed Turkey’s commitment to expanding joint initiatives, particularly in northern Jordan, and increasing the presence of Turkish products and expertise in the local market.

Ansar Fırat expressed the Yunus Emre Cultural Centre’s readiness to expand its cultural programmes in Irbid in cooperation with local institutions, seeing this as a means to foster mutual understanding and strengthen people-to-people ties.

Ural stressed the need to establish direct communication channels between Jordanian and Turkish business communities and to provide the necessary facilitations to boost trade exchange and mutual benefits.

AMMAN — Secretary General of the Water Authority of Jordan (WAJ) Sufian Batayneh and Spanish Ambassador to Jordan Miguel de Lucas on Sunday inaugurated the Al Lajoun Water Infrastructure Rehabilitation Project in the Governorate of Karak. 

The ceremony was attended by Head of the Spanish Cooperation in Jordan Cristina Gutiérrez, along with senior officials, technical teams, and representatives of the local community.

The ambassador underscored the strategic significance of the project, which aims to expand water service coverage, enhance operational efficiency, and reduce water losses in Karak, according to a Spanish embassy statement. 

“Today marks a milestone in our joint vision for sustainable and resilient infrastructure,” he said. “Spanish Cooperation is proud to work with Jordan in delivering tangible, high-impact solutions to one of the most pressing challenges of our time,  water security.”

Batayneh emphasised the project's alignment with Jordan’s National Water Strategy 2023–2040. “Reducing non-revenue water is a national priority, and this project reflects our continued efforts to boost water system efficiency, ensure sustainability, and better serve our communities,” he said. He also commended the enduring partnership with Spanish institutions, noting that “international cooperation remains a cornerstone in the development of Jordan’s water sector.” 

Funded by the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID) with a total investment of JD1.214 million, the project involved the full rehabilitation of seven wells in the Al-Lajoun area, including the replacement of pumps, electrical panels and riser pipes to enhance reliability and performance.

The project also featured upgrades to key components of the Al Lajoun Water Treatment Plant, such as new pumps, valves, and chlorination systems, as well as the restoration of internal hydraulic barriers. Additionally, 5.5 kilometres of ductile iron pipelines were installed to improve network connectivity and distribution capacity.

The successful completion of the Al-Lajoun project underscores the deepening cooperation between Jordan and Spain, rooted in shared values of resilience, innovation, and sustainable development, the statement said.

AMMAN — Aqaba’s Al Azraq Beach has once again earned the prestigious "Blue Flag" certification for 2025, marking the third consecutive year the beach has met the international eco-label’s rigorous environmental and quality standards.

During a flag-raising ceremony held on Monday, Chief Commissioner of the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) Nayef Fayez described the achievement as a testament to ongoing efforts to preserve the Gulf of Aqaba as a sustainable natural "treasure" and a leading ecotourism destination, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported. 

Fayez noted that the award reflects the successful implementation of ASEZA’s 2024–2028 strategic plan, which aims to promote responsible tourism, safeguard marine biodiversity, and position Aqaba as a regional model for sustainable coastal development.

The ceremony, held at the Aqaba Marine Reserve, also included the participation of 40 students from the Ninth Elementary School for Boys as part of the "#Know_Your_Reserve" environmental awareness programme. The initiative, run by the reserve, engages students in marine conservation efforts and fosters a deeper understanding of the importance of protecting the coastal ecosystem.

The Blue Flag Programme is a global initiative of the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) that recognises beaches and marinas that meet strict criteria related to water quality, environmental management, education, and safety. 

The Royal Marine Conservation Society (JREDS) is responsible for implementing the programme and overseeing the evaluation and qualification processes.