Geopolitical Briefing: Jordan
4 May 2025
- Jordan bans the Muslim Brotherhood, seizes assets, and raids Islamic Action Front offices following allegations of plotting attacks.
- U.S. aid to Jordan preserved for military and strategic projects amid broader foreign aid cuts under President Trump.
- Public anger over Gaza war intensifies, with protests and growing pressure on the monarchy’s ties with Israel and the U.S.
- Jordanian authorities arrest 16 individuals linked to a plot involving rockets and drones, allegedly trained in Lebanon.(AP News, Reuters, Financial Times)
On 23 April 2025, Jordan officially outlawed the Muslim Brotherhood, labeling it an illegal organization and initiating actions to shut down its affiliated offices and seize assets. This move potentially targets the Islamic Action Front (IAF), Jordan’s largest opposition party, which is linked to the Brotherhood and secured the most parliamentary seats in elections held amid anti-Israel protests. Authorities searched the IAF headquarters and cited security concerns, accusing Brotherhood members of subversive activities and plotting attacks, including manufacturing explosives. The government recently detained 16 individuals allegedly connected to unlicensed groups involved in weapons production and militant plots. The Brotherhood has denied the charges and reaffirmed its commitment to national stability. IAF Secretary-General Wael Al-Saqqa distanced the party from the Brotherhood, emphasizing its legal conduct. (AP News)
Despite President Trump’s sweeping cuts to foreign aid, Jordan has secured a carve-out preserving U.S. assistance for military and strategic projects. While development programs faced reductions, military aid remains intact, and Jordan has locked in additional support from Europe, Gulf countries, and multilateral lenders. This underscores Jordan’s critical role in regional stability and its strategic importance to U.S. national security interests. (Reuters)
Public discontent in Jordan has surged amid the ongoing Gaza conflict. Protests have erupted, with demonstrators expressing solidarity with Palestinians and criticizing the government’s relationships with Israel and the U.S. The government’s recent actions against the Muslim Brotherhood and the IAF are seen by some as attempts to suppress dissent and maintain internal stability. (AP Newsroom, AP News)
Jordanian authorities announced the arrest of 16 individuals linked to a plot involving the manufacture of rockets and drones intended to sow chaos within the kingdom. The suspects allegedly received training in Lebanon and were connected to banned groups. The General Intelligence Department’s investigation revealed plans to use explosives and weapons against national targets, highlighting ongoing security challenges facing Jordan. (Wikipedia, Financial Times)
