AGP Executive Report

Regional Security: Iran’s missile barrage on Jordan’s al-Azraq base is in focus again, with Jordan saying it intercepted 18 of 20 ballistic missiles and reported no casualties, while US officials and reports describe damage to aircraft at the Muwaffaq Salti facility. Diplomacy: Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi met Syria’s President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Damascus, agreeing to deepen ties and prepare an October summit, while Safadi and Syria’s foreign minister renewed condemnation of Israeli incursions. Foreign Policy: Eight foreign ministers backed Britain’s ban on imports from Israeli settlements, urging wider action and accountability. Economy & Energy: The Prime Minister chaired an Investment Council meeting, highlighting major projects and reforms, while Jordan approved a plan to supply Lebanon with natural gas via the Arab Gas Pipeline through Aqaba and Syria. Sports & Culture: Amman hosted the Sharjah Narrative Forum, and the Asian Karate Championships continued with Jordan-based action as athletes from across the region won medals. Travel & Weather: Iraqi Airways will double Baghdad-Amman flights on peak days, and mild late-summer conditions are set to continue through Saturday before warmer weather Sunday.

Jordan-Iran Escalation: Jordan says it intercepted and destroyed 18 of 20 ballistic missiles fired from Iran toward the kingdom, with two landing in unpopulated areas and no casualties reported, as specialized teams secure debris sites. Al-Azraq Focus: Iran’s IRGC claims it struck the al-Azraq airbase, which hosts US assets, targeting maintenance and aircraft preparation sites; the wider exchange follows US moves against Iranian-linked oil tankers. US-Iran Maritime Tensions: CENTCOM says US forces destroyed five Iranian crude oil carriers after IRGC missile attacks on a US warship, while Iran condemns the tanker strikes as dangerous escalation. Energy for Lebanon: Jordan’s cabinet approved a plan to supply Lebanon with natural gas via the Arab Gas Pipeline, using LNG regasification at Aqaba Port and transport through Syria to ease Lebanon’s power crisis. Regional Travel: Wizz Air announced it will return to Dubai and Abu Dhabi (plus Jeddah and Amman) with 12 routes and 49 weekly flights starting late October. Diplomacy & Culture: Crown Prince Hussein honoured Islamic scholars at the Royal Aal al-Bayt Institute conference, including awarding Sheikh Abdullah bin Bayyah a top Jordanian order. Sports: Jordan hosted the Bangladesh U-17 women’s team for friendlies, while Malaysia’s Nur Aneesa Aira won junior women’s kata gold at the Asian karate championships in Amman.

Missile Defence & Regional Tensions: Jordan says its air defences intercepted and destroyed 18 of 20 Iranian ballistic missiles aimed at the Kingdom; two fell in unpopulated areas and no casualties were reported, with teams securing debris sites and urging the public not to touch anything unidentified. US-Iran Escalation: The clash follows CENTCOM’s move to destroy five Iranian crude oil carriers after IRGC attacks on a US warship, while Iran’s IRGC claims it struck US vessels and hit Jordan’s al-Azraq airbase. Weather Update: Mild conditions are set to continue across most regions through Thursday, with warmer weather spreading on Friday. Diplomacy: King Abdullah met Oman’s Shura Council chairman, reaffirming strong Jordan-Oman ties. Public Health Enforcement: Jordan’s food and drug regulator shut down an unlicensed packaging workshop in Zarqa and sealed an unlicensed cosmetic clinic inside an Amman gym. Sports Spotlight: Malaysia’s Nur Aneesa Aira won junior women’s kata gold at the AKF championships in Amman, while Jordan’s junior karate event also drew regional teams.

Jordan-Lebanon Gas Deal: Jordan’s Cabinet approved supplying Lebanon with natural gas via Aqaba Port, regasification, then transport through Syria—aimed at boosting Lebanon’s electricity generation amid ongoing power shortages. UK Settlement Trade Ban: Jordan’s Foreign Ministry welcomed Britain’s ban on trade in Israeli settlement products, backing a 12-nation push for restrictions tied to international law and the two-state solution. Red Sea Tensions: Jordan condemned Houthi attacks on Saudi civilian and economic sites and warned the strikes threaten sovereignty and maritime navigation, reaffirming solidarity with Riyadh. Jerusalem Watch: Jordan chaired an Arab League ministerial committee meeting condemning escalating Israeli violations at Al Aqsa and calling for stronger international pressure to protect the city’s legal status quo. Public Health Crackdowns: JFDA shut an unlicensed cosmetic clinic inside an Amman gym and sealed a Zarqa workshop for producing food packaging without proper licenses, seizing tons of cardboard and warning consumers to check food-safety suitability. Air Traffic Surge: CARC data shows aircraft transits over Jordan jumped 80.3% in the first eight months of 2026, largely linked to redesigned flight routes and navigation procedures. Humanitarian Aid to Gaza: Jordan’s Red Crescent sent another aid convoy to Gaza, continuing support via Egyptian crossings. Sports & Youth: Jordan hosted the 24th Asian Cadet/Junior/U21 Karate Championships, with UAE and Bahrain teams competing; Jordan’s women’s volleyball team won silver at the West Asian Championship. Economy & Services: Valu officially launched in Jordan with BNPL and digital financing after Central Bank approval; Jordan also extended labor directorate working hours to help regularize non-Jordanian workers.

Aviation Boom: CARC data shows aircraft transiting Jordanian airspace jumped 80.3% in the first eight months of 2026, with 116,051 crossings versus 64,372 last year, as route and navigation procedures were redesigned and inaugurated May 25. Jordanian Aid to Gaza: The Jordan Red Crescent and Jordan Armed Forces medical aviation moved to support people in Gaza and beyond, including a new Gaza aid convoy and the evacuation of 10 injured Jordanians from Egypt for treatment in Amman. Jerusalem and Holy Sites: Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi warned of consequences from Israeli aggression, pushing for sustained Arab action to protect occupied Jerusalem and its Islamic and Christian holy sites, while an Arab committee condemned escalating violations at Al Aqsa. Water Crackdown: Water authorities detected and removed illegal lines and sealed wells used to supply farms, chalets and homes, tightening control over water sources and networks. Economy and Investment: National exports rose 6.2% to JD4.66bn in the first half, as industry calls for more export-focused investment; Awqaf also unveiled a plan to double endowment property revenue, after valuing holdings at about JD516m. Weather: Temperatures stay slightly above seasonal averages through Wednesday, then ease later in the week.

Humanitarian Aid to Gaza: Jordan’s Red Crescent sent a new convoy of aid trucks from Amman to Gaza via Egyptian ports and crossings, with officials citing King Abdullah II’s directives and coordination with Egypt. Awqaf Revenue Push: The Awqaf ministry unveiled a three-year plan to double investable endowment property revenue, after a first valuation put Awqaf Properties Development holdings at about JD516 million, aiming to boost returns within three years. Jerusalem Escalation Condemned: An Arab ministerial committee chaired by Jordan condemned “unprecedented” Israeli escalation at Al Aqsa/Al Haram Al Sharif and called for intensified international pressure to preserve the city’s historical and legal status quo. Work and Study Access: The government extended working hours at several labor directorates in Amman and governorates until 5 p.m. to help non-Jordanians complete regularization procedures; meanwhile, unified electronic applications opened for the 2026–2027 bridging program at public universities. Economy and Trade: National exports rose 6.2% in the first half to JD4.66bn, as industry leaders urged more export-focused investment and public-private partnerships. Water Enforcement: Water authorities detected and removed multiple illegal water lines and sealed wells used to supply farms, chalets and homes, as part of a nationwide crackdown. Tech and Services: Valu officially launched in Jordan with BNPL and digital financing after receiving a specialized finance license from the Central Bank.

Diplomacy & Gaza: Deputy PM and FM Ayman Safadi met Egypt’s Badr Abdelatty, urging full implementation of Trump’s Gaza plan and coordination ahead of the Arab League Council session in Cairo, while Jordan and Egypt also pushed back against illegal Israeli measures in occupied Jerusalem. Credentials & Ties: Italy’s new ambassador Pier Luigi Zamporlini presented his credentials to King Abdullah II, stressing expanded cooperation in defense, trade, culture and development. Human Rights: Prime Minister Jafar Hassan received Jordan’s NCHR annual human rights report for 2025, with Parliament set to review its recommendations. Energy & Regional Cooperation: Cabinet approved supplying Lebanon with natural gas via Aqaba using a floating unit and transport through Syria, alongside an energy-efficiency push for government buildings. Digital Services: The government’s AI spokesperson “Farah” is set to add an English version, and a new e-passport application service is now available at multiple service centers. Water Security: Water authorities detected and shut down multiple illegal water lines and wells used to supply farms, chalets and homes. Public Safety Tragedy: A five-year-old boy died after allegedly being left inside a private school bus in Zarqa for hours, with a heat-shock finding reported. Science & Culture: Jordanian astronomers observed a newly discovered supernova from Amman skies, while PM Hassan launched tourism and environmental site development in eastern Jordan. Weather: Moderate conditions continue through Thursday, with hot weather persisting in the Badia, Jordan Valley, Dead Sea and Aqaba.

Human Rights Oversight: Prime Minister Jafar Hassan received Jordan’s 22nd annual National Centre for Human Rights report on the status of human rights in 2025, with Lower House Speaker Mazen Qadi saying Parliament will give the recommendations full attention through its committees. Energy Cooperation: The Cabinet approved supplying Lebanon with natural gas via Aqaba Port, using Jordan’s LNG regasification and transport through Syria, while also backing an energy-efficiency project in government buildings aimed at cutting bills by about 20%. Water Enforcement: Water authorities carried out inspections that led to removing illegal water lines, sealing illegal wells tied to selling water to farms and chalets, and seizing equipment in Irbid and other areas. Ports and Supply Chains: The PM met officials and private-sector representatives to keep Aqaba ports and border crossings running smoothly and ensure the steady flow of goods amid regional conditions. Digital Services: The government’s AI spokesperson “Farah” is set to add an English-language version for international audiences, and the Digital Economy Ministry launched an electronic passport application service at several government centers. Regional Tensions: Jordan and Arab and Islamic states condemned Israeli plans to displace Palestinians from Gaza, warning they violate international law and threaten Palestinian rights. Science Spotlight: Jordanian astronomers observed a newly discovered supernova (SN 2026aaiv) from Jordan, about 40 million light-years away. Tourism Push: The PM ordered a project to develop eastern Jordan’s tourism, ecological and historical sites, linking reserves and landmarks including Azraq. Public Safety Tragedy: A five-year-old boy in Zarqa died after allegedly being left inside a private school bus for hours; authorities detained the driver pending questioning.

Iran-US Tensions and Jordan’s Security: Jordan continues to face Iranian missile and drone threats tied to its US alliance, with officials stressing they will keep the partnership despite the risk; a senior US official also said Washington has no information supporting claims of missiles launched toward US bases in Jordan. Diplomatic Push: Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi held talks in Paris with France on bilateral ties and regional stability, warning against escalation in the occupied West Bank and Gaza. Government Services Upgrade: Jordan launched an electronic passport application service at selected government service centers, and the digital spokesperson “Farah” is set to expand with an English-language version for wider international reach. Local Development & Tourism: The prime minister visited the “Blessed Tree” site and Azraq Wetland Reserve revitalisation project, ordering a broader eastern-Jordan tourism and ecological development push. Health & Infrastructure: The Health Ministry completed rehabilitation of 16 primary care centers and relocated eight specialized clinics to the former Prince Hamzah ER to ease outpatient congestion. Public Safety Tragedy: A five-year-old boy died in Zarqa after allegedly being locked inside a school bus for hours; a forensic report cited heat shock and the driver was detained. Weather: Moderate conditions are expected through Wednesday, with hotter weather in the Badia, Jordan Valley, Dead Sea and Aqaba.

Regional Diplomacy: Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi held talks in Paris with France on strengthening bilateral ties and pushing for international action to protect regional stability, including efforts toward a sustainable US-Iran ceasefire. Tourism Push in the East: Prime Minister Jafar Hassan visited the “Blessed Tree” site and the Azraq Wetland Reserve revitalisation project, ordering a wider plan to develop eastern Jordan’s tourist, ecological and historical locations. US-Iran Fallout for Jordan: Jordan continues to face Iranian missile and drone threats tied to its US alliance, with officials stressing they will keep the partnership while warning against escalations across the region. Government Services: Jordan launched an electronic passport application service at selected government service centers, running from 9am to midnight. Public Safety Tragedy: A five-year-old boy died after allegedly being locked inside a school transport bus for about four hours in Zarqa; a forensic report cited heat shock and the driver was detained. Tourism Numbers: Umm Qais saw visitor totals fall to 71,289 in Jan–July 2026, down 13.3% from the same period last year. Weather: Moderate conditions are expected with hot weather in the Badia, Jordan Valley, Dead Sea and Aqaba.

Iran-Jordan tensions: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi hit back at Jordan’s Ayman Safadi over Amman’s criticism of Tehran’s retaliatory strikes, arguing Arab territory and airspace were used in US attacks and asking how long Iran should wait to respond. Air defence updates: Jordan reported intercepting Iranian missiles over northern areas, as the wider US-Jordan security partnership keeps putting the kingdom in the firing line. US alliance pressure: Multiple reports say Jordan is paying a security price for hosting US forces, but leaders insist the Washington ties remain central to protecting the country. Tragedy in Zarqa: A five-year-old boy died after allegedly being locked inside a private school bus for about four hours; a forensic report cited heat shock and the driver was detained. Government comms: Jordan launched the digital spokesperson “Farah,” with an upcoming English version for international audiences and investment-related messaging. Local life & services: Greater Amman Municipality announced temporary traffic diversions for a pedestrian bridge installation; the Health Ministry completed rehabilitation of 16 primary care centres and moved eight specialized clinics to Prince Hamzah Hospital’s former emergency area. Tourism figures: Umm Qais visitor numbers fell to 71,289 in Jan–July 2026, down 13.3% from the same period last year.

Government Tech & Media: The government’s digital spokesperson service “Farah” is set to add an English-language version for international media, with possible more languages later, and will also cover content tied to investment conferences. Regional Security: Jordan’s US alliance is being tested as Iran escalates with drone and missile attacks, while Amman says it will keep its partnership despite the risk; Iranian FM Abbas Araqchi also traded sharp criticism with Jordan’s Ayman Safadi. Military Leadership: King Abdullah appointed Maj. Gen. Majdi Al Harasis as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, replacing Lt. Gen. Yousef Huneiti, as Jordan continues to face aerial threats. Public Health & Services: The Health Ministry completed EU/WHO-funded rehabilitation of 16 health centers and moved eight specialized clinics to the renovated former Prince Hamzah ER to ease outpatient congestion. Transport & Safety: Greater Amman Municipality announced temporary road lane closures and diversions for a steel pedestrian bridge installation on Jordan Street. Humanitarian/Community: The Palestinian PM visited the Jordan Field Hospital in Nablus, praising JAF medical work. Sports: Bahrain’s youth handball team returned to a warm welcome after winning Asian U19 silver in Amman and booking the 2027 world championship berth.

Iran-US Tensions and Jordan’s Security: Jordan says it has paid a price for its US alliance as Iranian drone and missile strikes target military bases, with Amman stressing it remains committed to Washington despite economic strain and regional volatility. Military Leadership Update: King Abdullah appointed Maj. Gen. Majdi Al Harasis as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, outlining plans to restructure, strengthen and modernise the armed forces. Diplomacy in the Region: King Abdullah and Bahrain’s king discussed halting escalation and boosting coordination on Arab causes. Foreign Relations: Ayman Safadi met Austria’s foreign minister in Vienna to expand cooperation in trade, tourism, education and defence, including resuming Amman–Vienna direct flights. Health Services: The Health Ministry completed EU/WHO-funded rehabilitation of 16 primary care centres, aiming to ease pressure on hospital emergencies. Local Infrastructure: Greater Amman Municipality plans a steel pedestrian bridge on Jordan Street with temporary lane closures and diversions. Road Safety Tragedy: Jordan’s PM offered condolences after a deadly bus crash in Egypt killed 22, including 10 Jordanians. Business & Growth: CFI Financial Group named Federico Cirulli as chairman ahead of its next growth phase. Aviation & Travel: CARC said air traffic to and from Jordan is operating normally with only limited cancellations.

Regional Diplomacy: King Abdullah II spoke by phone with Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, urging an end to dangerous escalation and discussing ways to deepen Jordan-Bahrain cooperation. Military Leadership: A Royal Decree appointed Maj. Gen. Majdi Al Harasis as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, replacing Maj. Gen. Yousef Al Huneiti as Jordan remains on high alert amid Iranian aerial threats. Health Services: The Health Ministry completed EU/WHO-funded rehabilitation of 16 primary healthcare centers, and also relocated eight specialized clinics to the renovated former emergency department at Prince Hamzah Hospital to cut outpatient congestion. Transport & Safety: Greater Amman Municipality announced traffic diversions for a steel pedestrian bridge installation on Jordan Street near Al-Sarh Schools. Palestinian Support: Jordan’s Field Hospital in Nablus received a visit from Palestinian PM Mohammad Mustafa, who praised JAF’s ongoing humanitarian and medical work. Social Protection: Social Development Minister Wafa Bani Mustafa met the Ford Foundation to expand cooperation on disability inclusion and social protection. Aviation & Trade Links: Queen Alia International Airport invited concession bids for duty free and F&B through 2039, while Jordan and China discussed potential new Amman–Beijing air links. Sports: Bahrain’s youth men’s handball team returned to a hero’s welcome after winning Asian silver in Amman and booking a 2027 world championship berth.

Jordan–China Ties: King Abdullah II’s China visit opened new economic paths, highlighted by a memorandum between Royal Jordanian and Air China to explore direct Amman–Beijing flights, plus codesharing, cargo, ground services and training. Weather Watch: Jordan’s temperatures are set to ease gradually through Sunday, with hot conditions mainly lingering in the Jordan Valley, Dead Sea and Aqaba. Regional Security: Jordan strongly condemned Iranian attacks on a Saudi tanker and on Bahrain and Kuwait, while US embassies in Amman, Doha and Jerusalem issued security alerts urging Americans to stay vigilant amid possible travel disruptions. Air Travel Update: CARC said air traffic into and out of Jordan is operating normally, with only limited cancellations reported. Jerusalem Education: The RCJA warned that forcing the Israeli curriculum on East Jerusalem students is a dangerous escalation aimed at erasing Arab-Palestinian identity. Public Safety: Anti-narcotics police arrested 26 suspects in eight drug cases, seizing hashish, crystal meth and firearms. Sports: The Jordan Pro League season kicks off with Al-Wehdat vs Al-Faisaly in the capital. Culture & Community: ESCWA and UN-Habitat launched the third Arab Mayors Academy in Amman to help local leaders drive SDG localization and resilience.

Jordan Air Defences: Jordan intercepted and destroyed 10 of 13 Iranian ballistic missiles entering its airspace, with the remaining three landing in remote areas; the Armed Forces said no injuries or major damage were reported and urged the public not to approach debris. Regional Security Alerts: US embassies in Jerusalem, Doha and Amman issued fresh travel warnings amid US-Iran tensions, citing the risk of unpredictable escalation and possible flight disruptions. Travel Disruption: Despite “limited” cancellations reported Tuesday night, CARC said air traffic to and from Jordan is operating normally, advising travellers to confirm flight updates before heading to airports. Drug Crackdown: The Anti-Narcotics Department arrested 26 suspects in eight cases nationwide, seizing hashish, crystal meth and firearms. Local Appointments: Royal Decrees named Maj. Gen. Majdi Al-Harasīs as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, while Lt. Gen. Yousef Al-Huneiti was promoted and referred to retirement. Economy & Jobs: Jordan recorded record net job creation for citizens in 2025, reaching 87,617, with Jordanians filling about 91% of new posts. Culture & Community: ASU and the University of Leeds documented a new digital heritage project turning Jordan’s historic architecture into contemporary designs. Sports: The Jordan Pro League season kicks off with a blockbuster Al-Wehdat vs Al-Faisaly clash.