King Abdullah II Confirms Jordan’s Support for Iraq in Facing Terror Threat

King Abdullah II of Jordan during his meeting with Iraqi Foreign Minister Ibrahim al-Jaafari In Amman. (Petra)
King Abdullah II of Jordan during his meeting with Iraqi Foreign Minister Ibrahim al-Jaafari In Amman. (Petra)
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King Abdullah II Confirms Jordan’s Support for Iraq in Facing Terror Threat

King Abdullah II of Jordan during his meeting with Iraqi Foreign Minister Ibrahim al-Jaafari In Amman. (Petra)
King Abdullah II of Jordan during his meeting with Iraqi Foreign Minister Ibrahim al-Jaafari In Amman. (Petra)

King Abdullah II of Jordan said Monday that Jordan and Iraq share the same position in facing terrorism.

The monarch reiterated that Jordan's interest in Iraq lies in its stability and prosperity, which, he said, constitute a pillar for regional security and stability.

He made his remarks while receiving in Amman Iraqi Foreign Minister Ibrahim al-Jaafari.

The meeting at the al-Husseiniya tackled bilateral relations and the latest developments in Iraq, said a royal court statement.

King Abdullah highlighted the "deep and historical relations between Jordan and Iraq,” expressing keenness to continue cooperation on all levels, especially in the economic and trade fields, in a way that serves their joint interests, according to the statement.

He also expressed Jordan’s support for Iraq’s efforts in the war against terrorism.

Moreover, he stressed the need for including all segments of the Iraqi people in the political process, hoping Saturday’s Iraqi parliamentary elections will be a success.

Jaafari, for his part, commended the Kingdom’s “constant stances in supporting the unity, security and stability of Iraq.”

The minister highlighted Iraq’s victories in its war on terrorism, stressing that Jordan, as a contributor to these successes, has the right to be proud of these achievements.

Jaafari had arrived in Jordan on Sunday and he has so far held talks with Prime Minister Hani al-Mulki and Foreign Minister Ayman al-Safadi.

The parties agreed to continue defense and security cooperation to confront ISIS on security, military and ideological levels and to form a joint military committee to control the borders.



Israeli Military Recovers Body of a Hostage in Gaza, Is Examining Identity of a Second Body

Palestinians inspect damaged residential buildings where two Israeli hostages were reportedly held before being rescued during an operation by Israeli security forces in Rafah, southern Gaza Strip, on Feb. 12, 2024. (AP)
Palestinians inspect damaged residential buildings where two Israeli hostages were reportedly held before being rescued during an operation by Israeli security forces in Rafah, southern Gaza Strip, on Feb. 12, 2024. (AP)
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Israeli Military Recovers Body of a Hostage in Gaza, Is Examining Identity of a Second Body

Palestinians inspect damaged residential buildings where two Israeli hostages were reportedly held before being rescued during an operation by Israeli security forces in Rafah, southern Gaza Strip, on Feb. 12, 2024. (AP)
Palestinians inspect damaged residential buildings where two Israeli hostages were reportedly held before being rescued during an operation by Israeli security forces in Rafah, southern Gaza Strip, on Feb. 12, 2024. (AP)

The Israeli military said Wednesday that troops have recovered the body of a hostage held in Gaza and were examining whether another body recovered was also that of a captive.

Earlier, Israel's defense minister said that troops recovered the bodies of two hostages.

The military said the body of Yosef Al Zaydani was brought to Israel on Tuesday after being discovered in an underground tunnel near the southern Gaza city of Rafah. It said troops uncovered information about Al Zaydani's son Hamzah that "raised serious concerns for his life."

Military spokesman Col. Nadav Shoshani said the military was looking into the identity of a second set of remains recovered.

Al Zaydani and his son were taken captive during Hamas’ attack on Oct. 7, 2023, among 250 hostages snatched by the group during its cross-border raid.

Israel believes a third of the remaining 100 hostages are dead.

The body's recovery comes as Israel and Hamas are considering a ceasefire deal that would free the hostages and halt the fighting in Gaza.

However, Yosef and Hamzah Al Zaydani were believed to still be alive and their return could ramp up the pressure on Israel to move ahead on a deal.

Yosef Al Zaydani's name was on a list of 34 hostages shared by a Hamas official with The Associated Press that the group said were slated for release.

Many families of hostages say the continuation of the war in Gaza puts the lives of the remaining hostages at risk. They have demanded throughout the conflict that Israel reaches a deal with Hamas to free their loved ones.