AGP Executive Report

Regional Security: The Iran–US crisis escalated again after Trump blamed Tehran for an Apache helicopter crash near the Strait of Hormuz. The US launched airstrikes on Iranian sites, while Iran retaliated by targeting Bahrain, Kuwait and an air base in Jordan hosting US forces—Jordan said it shot down five incoming missiles. Diplomacy & Stability: Jordan’s leadership reiterated that Iraq’s security is inseparable from Jordan’s own, as Amman and Baghdad focus on border and airspace threats from non-state armed groups. Local Governance & Economy: Jordan’s energy debate resurfaced as experts argued the Kingdom could unlock major gas, oil-shale and mineral potential to strengthen revenues and reduce public debt. Public Life: In Jordan’s wider regional context, commentary warned that threats to Jerusalem’s holy-site status could intensify, with Hashemite custodianship at the center of political risk. Human Rights Spotlight: EU officials again described Jordan as a trusted strategic partner, citing long-running cooperation on refugees and rights.

Jordan-EU Rights Diplomacy: EU human rights chief Kaja Ollongren visited Amman, praising Jordan as a trusted EU strategic partner and highlighting long-running cooperation on refugees and stability. Regional Security Talks: Prime Minister Jaafar Hassan met Iraq’s parliament speaker, stressing that Iraq’s security is a pillar of Jordan’s own security amid drone and airspace risks and concerns over armed groups beyond state control. Jerusalem Custodianship Debate: Columnists warned that threats to Hashemite custodianship over holy sites are tied to ongoing Israeli moves around Al-Aqsa, arguing Jordan’s role goes beyond services into legal and diplomatic protection. Labor & Living Costs: Jordan’s Labor Watch welcomed a public-sector and retiree salary increase of JOD 30 for those below JOD 600, saying it can ease pressure and support demand, while urging similar action for private-sector wages. Energy & Resources: An expert said Jordan has major untapped gas, oil-shale, and mineral potential, arguing stronger geological institutions and investment could unlock revenues and reduce debt. Human Rights Case: Human Rights Watch urged Jordan to allow a pending appeal to review and annul Ayman Sandouka’s conviction tied to a Facebook post, and to review cybercrime provisions used to restrict expression. Royal Milestone: Jordan marked King Abdullah II’s 27th Accession Day with official tributes and renewed focus on modernization and national development.

Cabinet & Budget Push: Prime Minister Jaafar Hassan urged ministries to start drafting 2027 budgets so the government can submit the draft general budget within the constitutional deadline, while also ordering a JD30 monthly salary increase for eligible civil and military employees and retirees and calling for a 15% cut in operational expenses next year. Health Reform Financing: The Cabinet approved a $400 million World Bank financing deal for a results-based Health Sector Reform Programme through 2030, targeting better hospital governance, stronger primary care, earlier detection of non-communicable diseases, and faster digital integration. Jordan-Iraq Security Ties: Hassan met Iraqi Parliament Speaker Heibat Al-Halbousi, stressing that Iraq’s security is a pillar of Jordan’s security, with attention on border and airspace threats and the challenge of armed groups operating outside Iraqi state control. EU Human Rights Spotlight: EU human rights envoy Kaja Ollongren described Jordan as a trusted EU partner and a stability source amid regional crises, citing long-running cooperation. Energy & Resources Debate: Energy expert Mubarak Al-Tahrawi said Jordan has major, still underdeveloped gas, oil shale, and mineral potential, arguing better exploration institutions and investment are key to unlocking revenue. Regional Jerusalem Focus: Columnists warned that threats to Hashemite custodianship in Jerusalem and changes around Al-Aqsa could deepen tensions. World Cup Note: FIFA said Somali referee Omar Artan was barred from entering the U.S., ending his World Cup role.

Jordan-EU Human Rights Diplomacy: EU Special Representative for Human Rights Kaja Ollongren visited Amman and praised Jordan as a “trusted strategic partner,” citing long-running cooperation and Jordan’s role in supporting Syrian and Palestinian refugees. Regional Security & Iraq Ties: Prime Minister Jaafar Hassan told Iraqi Parliament Speaker Halbousi that Iraq’s security is inseparable from Jordan’s, warning about threats from drones and armed groups operating beyond state control. Jerusalem/Al-Aqsa Debate: Jordanian opinion pieces warned that US-Israeli moves could weaken Hashemite custodianship and shift the status quo at Al-Aqsa, arguing risks are visible on the ground. Kingdom Milestones: Jordan marked King Abdullah’s 27th Accession anniversary, while the King reiterated the economy’s resilience and the need to push Economic Modernisation Vision projects. Economy & Markets: Central Bank foreign reserves rose to about $27.2bn, and local gold prices fell to 86 dinars/gram for 21-karat. Public Holiday: Government set June 16 as a public holiday for Hijri New Year (Hijri 1448 AH). Tech & Cybersecurity: Meta said NSO Group spyware-linked phishing still targeted a small number of WhatsApp users, including primarily in Jordan and Lebanon. Energy & Resources: An energy expert said Jordan has large, undeveloped gas, oil, and mineral potential, calling for stronger geological exploration institutions.

Jordan Airspace Alert: Jordan’s Government Spokesperson Mohammad Momani said missiles breached Jordanian airspace Sunday evening amid renewed regional escalation, with the Public Security Directorate sounding sirens and urging residents to shelter and avoid movement; Momani warned Jordan will not allow its territory to be used as a battleground. Jordan-Iraq Security Ties: Prime Minister Jaafar Hassan told Iraqi Parliament Speaker Heit al-Halbousi that Iraq’s security is a pillar of Jordan’s own security, stressing concern over armed non-state activity beyond Iraqi state control. EU-Jordan Human Rights Spotlight: EU Special Representative for Human Rights Kaja Ollongren visited Amman and described Jordan as a trusted EU partner, citing long-running cooperation and Jordan’s role amid refugee pressures. Regional Opinion Watch: Jordanian columnists focused on Jerusalem and Al-Aqsa custodianship, warning that US-Israeli plans could further erode the status quo. Energy & Resources Debate: A Jordanian energy expert said the Kingdom has major untapped gas, oil shale, and mineral potential, arguing weaker exploration institutions have held back development.

Amman Stock Exchange: Trading volume on the ASE hit JOD 18.2 million on Sunday, with the general index down 0.57% to 4,007 points as industrial and financial sectors slipped. Jordan–Iraq Ties: Prime Minister Jafar Hassan met Iraq’s Parliament Speaker Haibat Al-Halbousi, reaffirming that Iraq’s security is integral to Jordan’s and the region’s security, and pushing joint projects in energy, electricity, and trade. Regional Security & Diplomacy: US President Donald Trump warned he would either secure an Iran deal or “blow the hell out of them,” as the Iran war marks 100 days and tensions keep spilling into the Gulf and shipping lanes. Jerusalem & Al-Aqsa Custodianship: On Yawm Al Naksa (June 6), Jordan and regional actors renewed warnings about efforts to alter realities in Jerusalem, with US officials denying claims about changing Hashemite custodianship. Water Enforcement in Ma’an: Jordan’s Water Ministry seized an illegal drilling rig digging an unauthorized well in Ma’an, backfilled the site, and impounded the equipment. EU–Jordan Partnership: An EU human rights official said Jordan remains a pillar of stability and highlighted cooperation on refugee issues and regional human rights. Digital Services: Jerusalem Insurance signed with Tawqeey to adopt certified electronic signatures for insurance transactions, aiming to boost security and efficiency.

Jerash Festival Prep: Culture Minister Mustafa Rawashdeh inspected preparations for the 40th Jerash Festival for Culture and Arts, urging top-tier logistics and media support ahead of the July launch. Lebanon Crisis & Jordan’s Position: Jordan’s Foreign Ministry condemned an Israeli strike on a Lebanese Army patrol that killed two officers and a soldier, calling it a breach of international law and urging an immediate halt to attacks while backing UN Security Council Resolution 1701. Gulf Tensions: Iran launched missile and drone attacks on Bahrain and Kuwait, with both countries condemning “blatant aggression” and reporting interceptions and debris damage. Humanitarian Aid: Qatar Red Crescent Society said its Eid Al-Adha Sacrifice campaign reached 247,344 beneficiaries in Qatar and 13 countries, including Jordan and Palestine/Gaza. Energy & Regional Links: Azerbaijan’s SOCAR highlighted its growing role in the Eastern Mediterranean energy market, including talks tied to gas supply routes involving Egypt and Jordan. World Cup Build-Up: FIFA’s expanded 48-team World Cup kicks off June 11, with Curacao noted as the smallest nation ever to qualify.

Tourism Boost: Jordan’s Ministry of Tourism welcomed the UK’s updated travel advisory, saying Britain now classifies most of the country as safe—expected to lift confidence for European visitors and support the tourism sector’s recovery. Energy Plans: Jordan’s Ministry of Energy outlined targets to raise sector investments to JOD 1.14 billion by 2027, grow electricity capacity and expand gas-connected industrial clusters, alongside a higher renewable share. Trade Signals: The Amman Chamber of Commerce reported exports supported by certificates of origin rising 24.1% in the first five months of 2026, reaching JOD 624 million, with certificates up to 15,464. Regional Security: The U.S. said it intercepted Iranian missiles and drones aimed toward the Strait of Hormuz, Bahrain and Kuwait, while Jordan and other regional states condemned the attacks. West Bank Violence: Palestinian health officials reported Israeli forces killed a seven-month-old baby after firing at a vehicle near Hebron, with parents also wounded.

Gulf Tensions Escalate: Kuwait and Bahrain reported fresh missile and drone attacks, with air defenses intercepting incoming threats amid renewed Iran-US confrontation. Regional Nuclear Safety: Qatar reiterated condemnation of an attack on the UAE’s Barakah nuclear plant at an IAEA emergency session, stressing violations of international law and nuclear safety principles. Jordanian Governance & Economy: Jordan suspended foreign labor recruitment across most sectors as unemployment fell to 16%, while the Central Bank of Jordan issued JD 100 million in treasury bonds and CBJ also reported JD 141m in Treasury bonds. Local Finance Link: Amman and Abu Dhabi launched an electronic trading link via the Tabadul platform to boost financial integration and liquidity. World Bank for Iraq Roads: The World Bank approved a USD 900m project to improve road infrastructure across Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, including corridors linking toward Jordan and Syria. Public Procurement Reform (UK): Labour MP Neil Duncan-Jordan pushed to ban companies that donate to political parties from winning government contracts, aiming to cut donor influence over public procurement. Missing Child Sparks France Probe: France’s prime minister summoned justice and interior officials over the case of missing 11-year-old Lyhanna, triggering criticism over judicial missteps and missed chances to intervene.

Judicial Accountability in France: France launched a wider government review after the body of 11-year-old Lyhanna was found following her May 29 disappearance, with President Emmanuel Macron calling it “unacceptable” and saying there was “dysfunction” in how prior complaints against the main suspect were handled. Iraq Oil Disruption: Iraq’s crude exports averaged about 329,000 barrels per day in May, far below pre-crisis levels, as shipments were constrained by restrictions around the Strait of Hormuz, with revenues estimated around $1 billion. Jordan-Gulf Finance Push: Jordan’s banking sector is urging Qatari investors to back green economy projects, while Amman and Abu Dhabi exchanges moved ahead with an electronic trading link via Tabadul to boost financial integration and liquidity. World Cup Costs and Access: Reports say some fans are skipping the 2026 World Cup due to ticket prices, travel costs, and concerns about entering the U.S., even as host cities prepare for large crowds. Regional Security and Diplomacy: Lebanon and Arab states faced renewed pressure amid Israel-Hezbollah fighting and truce efforts, with calls for stronger regional and international action.

Green Investment Push: The Association of Banks in Jordan says Qatari investors should back Jordan’s green economy priorities—renewables, sustainable transport, circular economy and low-emission infrastructure—framed under the Economic Modernization Vision 2023-2033, with the Central Bank of Jordan helping set the regulatory and financing conditions. Judicial Appointments & Court Work: Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe announced five board/commission appointments and reappointments, including roles tied to clean water, elections and workforce development. Political Shake-Up: South Dakota’s GOP primary saw a wave of incumbent ousters, with unofficial results pointing to major turnover in the state legislature. Nuclear Fuel Milestone: BWX Technologies said its TRISO fuel powered Antares Nuclear’s reactor through a first criticality milestone under a U.S. DOE testing reform program. Local Governance: New Baden’s village board held its first meeting in a new hall, with residents raising concerns including parking citations during community events.

Emergency Alerts: Globitel says it has rolled out Jordan’s Cell Broadcast Early Warning System with Zain Jordan, Orange Jordan and Umniah, enabling geo-targeted official messages to phones within seconds during crises. Jerusalem Custodianship: The UK Foreign Office reiterated that Jordan’s role as custodian of Jerusalem’s holy sites “must be respected,” after reports of US-Israeli plans to change the status quo around Al-Aqsa. World Cup Focus: Jordan’s national team will open its 2026 World Cup campaign against Austria on June 16, then face Algeria and Argentina, with coach Jamal Sellami calling the matches “valuable experience.” Diplomacy & Iran: Pakistan’s Foreign Office rejected claims that Ishaq Dar shared intelligence on Iran’s nuclear programme with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, saying the reports are baseless. Regional Environment: Under Princess Alia’s patronage, an Amman workshop launched to promote positive community behaviour to reduce demand for wildlife and birds across the Middle East. Tourism Signals: Cyprus tourism is cautiously recovering, with officials linking March disruptions to wider Middle East tensions and flight changes affecting the island.

West Bank Settlements: Jordan condemned Israel’s approval of 2,126 new settler units in the occupied West Bank, calling it a “blatant violation” that undermines the two-state solution. Regional Solidarity: Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi condemned Iranian attacks on Bahrain and Kuwait in separate calls, stressing Jordan’s full solidarity and condolences to victims. Water Security: Water Minister Raed Abu Saud warned that without the National Conveyance Project Jordan faces a worsening water crisis, with the project covering only about 40% of needs for roughly a decade. Anti-Drug Operations: Jordan’s Public Security Directorate said it arrested 18 drug dealers and promoters in multiple campaigns, seizing drugs including crystal meth. Economy & Investment: Jordan’s pharmaceutical exports rose 17.6% in early 2026, while foreign investors hold nearly half of Amman Stock Exchange market value. International Finance: EBRD named Uzbekistan-born British executive Nodira Mansurova as its new regional head for Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan.

Diplomacy: Jordan condemned Iranian attacks on civilian and vital facilities in Bahrain and Kuwait, calling them a “flagrant” breach of sovereignty and the UN Charter, and reiterated Amman’s solidarity with the Gulf states. World Cup logistics: Jordan’s government ordered a 90-minute later work start for institutions on FIFA match days (June 17, 23 and 28) to let citizens watch the national team’s first-ever World Cup appearance. Industry & investment: Jordan plans to expand the Chinese industrial complex in Al-Qatrana by 3 million sqm, with the area set to become a development zone offering incentives to attract new investment. Trade & transport: Jordan’s pharmaceutical exports rose 17.6% in Q1 2026 to JD147m, while vehicle clearance at Zarqa Free Zone fell 65.3% in the first five months, with EV clearances down sharply after import restrictions. Labor rights: Jordan’s Labor Watch urged changes to smart transport app rules so drivers are treated as employees with minimum labor and social protections, noting around 90,000 app-based drivers, most without social security. Regional economy: The EBRD said Jordan is tackling higher energy costs by rationalizing consumption and supporting agriculture and tourism, projecting 2.8% growth in 2027.

Jordan Politics & Industry: Prime Minister Jafar Hassan met the Jordan Engineers Association to discuss ways to support the engineering sector and help deliver major water, energy, transport and infrastructure projects. Regional Holy Sites: The Arab League condemned extremist Israeli settler incursions into the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, saying they violate international law and threaten the historical status quo under Hashemite custodianship. Jordan-Economy & Trade: Jordan and the UAE-linked Tabadul platform continues to strengthen financial integration, while AD Ports Group agreed to acquire Brazil’s agri-bulk terminal operator CLI in a deal worth about AED 3.1 billion. World Cup Update: FIFA confirmed all 2026 World Cup squads: 1,248 players from 48 teams, with Jordan listed among first-time participants. Local Governance: Amman readers may also note a broader governance theme this week—officials and stakeholders are pushing for more flexibility in budgets and services, as seen in a county mill-levy proposal in North Dakota.

Industrial Push in Karak: Jordan’s PM Jafar Hassan inaugurated six new Chinese-operated factories in Qatraneh, Karak, aiming to build an integrated industrial complex and create about 700 jobs, with steps underway to designate the area as a development zone. Digital Entrepreneurship Boost: The King Hussein Business Park (KHBP) and intaj signed an agreement to support the Virtual King Hussein Business Park, a smart virtual platform planned for launch later this year to help startups and companies manage operations online. Maan Development Incentives: Hassan also announced new incentives for the Rawda Industrial Area, including reduced electricity and land costs and operational support until it connects to the Arab Gas Pipeline, alongside plans for the Aqaba-Maan land port and rail link. Tourism Outlook: Low-cost flights to Jordan are set to resume July 1, with the Tourism and Antiquities Ministry saying this should lift arrivals, especially from Europe, after earlier regional disruptions. Humanitarian Aid for Eid: JHCO reported Eid Al Adha relief in Jordan and Gaza, including meat, clothing, meals, and healthcare support for thousands of families. Transport Upgrade in Amman: The Ministry of Public Works and Housing will start maintenance on damaged sections of Queen Alia International Airport Road, from Madaba Bridge to 7th Circle, under a JOD 5.9 million loan-funded project.