Jordan’s King Abdullah II reiterated his country’s firm rejection of Israeli rhetoric surrounding the so-called vision of a “Greater Israel” and condemned unilateral measures in the West Bank, including settlement expansion in the controversial “E1” area.
The King stressed that such actions constitute a violation of international law and an assault on the Palestinian people’s right to establish an independent state.
The King’s remarks came on Monday during a meeting in Amman with a US congressional delegation that included Senators Markwayne Mullin and Joni Ernst, along with Representatives Jason Smith and Jimmy Panetta.
He underscored the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the facilitation of humanitarian aid through all possible channels. Abdullah II also voiced Jordan’s categorical opposition to Israeli plans aimed at consolidating its military occupation of Gaza.
According to a statement released by the Royal Hashemite Court, discussions also touched on developments in Syria, with the King affirming Jordan’s support for Syria’s security, stability, sovereignty, and territorial unity.
Meanwhile, government spokesperson Mohammed Al-Momani warned that the practices of Israel’s far-right represent a direct threat to regional stability and the interests of states. He stressed that “the Jordanian people stand shoulder to shoulder with their armed forces and security services in confronting challenges and risks.”
Al-Momani’s comments came during a joint press conference with Military Media Director Mustafa Al-Hiyari, outlining details of the new phased structure of the national military service program, set to launch in 2026.
On Sunday, Crown Prince Hussein bin Abdullah II formally announced the reintroduction of the National Service Program (mandatory military conscription) during a meeting with youth in the northern governorate of Irbid. In a statement issued by the Royal Court, the Crown Prince emphasized the importance of preparing young Jordanians “to be fully ready to serve and defend the homeland,” noting that those who participate in the program will appreciate the value of the experience.
Jordan has reinstated mandatory military service after suspending it in the early 1990s, ahead of the 1994 Jordan–Israel peace treaty. Under the new framework, males born in 2007 will be required to complete the service beginning in 2026.
In its initial phase, the program will target 6,000 18-year-old Jordanians, divided into three batches of 2,000 each, selected through a draw system.
While the Crown Prince highlighted the program’s role in strengthening national identity, discipline, and youth connection to the land, officials and analysts view the move as a direct response to extremist Israeli rhetoric calling for Jordan to serve as an “alternative homeland” for Palestinians. The decision also comes amid heightened Israeli military operations in the West Bank and Gaza, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s renewed references to the notion of a “Greater Israel.”
Sources revealed that planning for the program began more than a year ago, with the aim of rebuilding youth capacity, diversifying skills, and fostering resilience through structured training and national engagement.
