<p>Jordan&rsquo;s King Abdullah II met with US President Donald Trump at the White House in Washington on Tuesday (Feb 11), to discuss the situation in Gaza.</p>
<p>&ldquo;One of the things we can do right away&rdquo; is bring 2,000 children who are in a &ldquo;very ill state&rdquo; to Jordan as quickly as possible, King Abdullah said.</p>
<p>In response to the offer, Trump said: "That&rsquo;s a really beautiful gesture."</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-trump-advisor-steve-bannon-pleads-guilty-to-fraud-receives-conditional-discharge-8712206">Former Trump advisor Steve Bannon pleads guilty to fraud, receives conditional discharge</a></strong></p>
<p>&ldquo;The president is looking at Egypt coming to present their plan, we will be in Saudi Arabia to disucss how we can work with the president and with the United States,&rdquo; the King said.</p>
<p>&ldquo;So I think let&rsquo;s wait until the Egyptians can come and present it to the president and not get ahead of ourselves,&rdquo; he added.</p>
<p>Asked about taking in Palestinians, Jordan&rsquo;s King Abdullah said, "We have to keep in mind how do we make this work that is in everyone&rsquo;s best interest."</p>
<p>Jordan King also added that he has to do what is best for his country when he was asked whether there is a parcel of land where Palestinians can live in Jordan.</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/respecting-truce-only-way-to-bring-hostages-back-hamas-warns-trump-after-us-presidents-ultimatum-8711876">'Respecting truce only way to bring hostages back', Hamas warns Trump after US president's ultimatum</a></strong></p>
<h2><strong>Trump's Gaza plan</strong></h2>
<p>His comments came as Trump pushed his suggestion of relocating all Palestinians from the Gaza Strip to neighbouring Jordan and Egypt, to transform Gaza into a luxury destination. The US president had proposed turning the territory into a high-end "Riviera."</p>
<p>Revealing more about his plan, the US president said that he would not personally develop property in Gaza. "Palestinians will live safely in another location that is not Gaza. We will run Gaza very properly, we&rsquo;re not going to buy it," Trump said.</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stick-to-catholic-church-trumps-border-czar-fires-back-at-pope-francis-over-immigration-criticism-8712179">'Stick to Catholic Church': Trump&rsquo;s border czar fires back at Pope Francis over immigration criticism</a></strong></p>
<p>Prior to his discussion with Trump, King Abdullah had met with some of the president&rsquo;s advisers, including National Security Advisor Mike Waltz.</p>
<p>The visit comes at a critical time for the fragile ceasefire in Gaza. Hamas has accused Israel of breaking the truce and announced it will suspend further hostage releases. Meanwhile, Trump has told Israel to resume its military operations if all captives are not freed by the weekend.</p>
<p>Trump has put forward a plan for the US to take control of Gaza and develop it as "the Riviera of the Middle East." His proposal involves relocating Palestinians to neighbouring countries, without offering them the right to return.</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-reconstruction-needs-at-least-usd-53-billion-un-says-8712066">Gaza reconstruction needs at least USD 53 billion, UN says</a></strong></p>
<p>On Monday, he indicated that he might cut US financial aid to Jordan and Egypt&mdash;both key American allies and major recipients of US assistance&mdash;if they refused to accept more displaced Palestinians from Gaza.</p>
<p>&ldquo;Yeah, maybe. Sure, why not?&rdquo; Trump said when asked about the possibility of withholding aid. &ldquo;If they don&rsquo;t, I would conceivably withhold aid, yes.&rdquo;</p>
<p>Jordan, which already hosts more than two million Palestinians, has firmly rejected Trump&rsquo;s relocation plan, as have other Arab nations.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

World: “One of the things we can do right away” is bring 2,000 children who are in a “very ill state” to Jordan as quickly as possible, King Abdullah said.

Jordan’s King Abdullah II met with US President Donald Trump at the White House in Washington on Tuesday (Feb 11), to discuss the situation in Gaza. “One of the things we can do right away” is bring 2,000 children who are in a “very ill state” to Jordan as quickly as possible, King Abdullah said. In response to the offer, Trump said: "That’s a really beautiful gesture." Also read: Former Trump advisor Steve Bannon pleads guilty to fraud, receives conditional discharge “The president is looking at Egypt coming to present their plan, we will be in Saudi Arabia to disucss how we can work with the president and with the United States,” the King said. “So I think let’s wait until the Egyptians can come and present it to the president and not get ahead of ourselves,” he added. Asked about taking in Palestinians, Jordan’s King Abdullah said, "We have to keep in mind how do we make this work that is in everyone’s best interest." Jordan King also added that he has to do what is best for his country when he was asked whether there is a parcel of land where Palestinians can live in Jordan. Also read: 'Respecting truce only way to bring hostages back', Hamas warns Trump after US president's ultimatum Trump's Gaza plan His comments came as Trump pushed his suggestion of relocating all Palestinians from the Gaza Strip to neighbouring Jordan and Egypt, to transform Gaza into a luxury destination. The US president had proposed turning the territory into a high-end "Riviera." Revealing more about his plan, the US president said that he would not personally develop property in Gaza. "Palestinians will live safely in another location that is not Gaza. We will run Gaza very properly, we’re not going to buy it," Trump said. Also read: 'Stick to Catholic Church': Trump’s border czar fires back at Pope Francis over immigration criticism Prior to his discussion with Trump, King Abdullah had met with some of the president’s advisers, including National Security Advisor Mike Waltz. The visit comes at a critical time for the fragile ceasefire in Gaza. Hamas has accused Israel of breaking the truce and announced it will suspend further hostage releases. Meanwhile, Trump has told Israel to resume its military operations if all captives are not freed by the weekend. Trump has put forward a plan for the US to take control of Gaza and develop it as "the Riviera of the Middle East." His proposal involves relocating Palestinians to neighbouring countries, without offering them the right to return. Also read: Gaza reconstruction needs at least USD 53 billion, UN says On Monday, he indicated that he might cut US financial aid to Jordan and Egypt—both key American allies and major recipients of US assistance—if they refused to accept more displaced Palestinians from Gaza. “Yeah, maybe. Sure, why not?” Trump said when asked about the possibility of withholding aid. “If they don’t, I would conceivably withhold aid, yes.” Jordan, which already hosts more than two million Palestinians, has firmly rejected Trump’s relocation plan, as have other Arab nations. (With inputs from agencies)

'US will control Gaza, Palestinians will be living beautifully elsewhere,' says Trump as he meets Jordan king

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (Oct 23) spoke to Jordanian King Abdullah II to discuss their shared concerns towards terrorism, violence and loss of lives.</p>

<p>Though the whole context of their conversation is unclear, since the conversion is taking place amidst the Israel-Hamas war, their discussion may have been related to the ongoing conflict in the West Asian region.</p>

<p>"Spoke with His Majesty @KingAbdullahII of Jordan. Exchanged views on the developments in the West Asia region. We share concerns regarding terrorism, violence and loss of civilian lives,” Modi said on social media platform X.</p>

<p>He told the king that further concerted efforts are needed for early resolution of the security and humanitarian situation, alluding to the situation in the Gaza Strip where the stranded civilians have been finding it difficult to access shelter and food amidst Israel's counter operations against the Hamas militants.</p>

<p>The Jordanian foreign ministry later in a statement said that both leaders discussed means to stop the deteriorating situation in Gaza.</p>

<h2><strong>India wants efforts to end war in Gaza</strong></h2>

<p>“Discussions during the call covered the need to step up international efforts to end the war on Gaza, protect civilians and hospitals, and guarantee the sustained delivery of medical and relief aid into the strip,” the statement said.</p>

<p>“His Majesty warned of the deteriorating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and the repercussions of what is happening in the strip on the region&nbsp;and&nbsp;the&nbsp;world,” he added.</p>

<p>On Sunday, India sent humanitarian aid to Palestinians in the conflict-torn region.</p>

<p>Nearly 6.5 tonnes of medical aid and 32 tonnes of disaster relief material have been sent to Palestine, which will reach the country via Egypt.</p>

<h2><strong>Modi sends aid to Palestinians&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said on X, "An IAF C-17 flight carrying nearly 6.5 tonnes of medical aid and 32 tonnes of disaster relief material for the people of Palestine departs for El-Arish airport in Egypt."</p>

<p>The relief items will be sent to Palestine via the Rafah border crossing between Egypt and Gaza.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-why-israel-bombed-syrian-airports-in-the-thick-of-its-ongoing-war-with-hamas-650322">Explained | Why Israel bombed Syrian airports, amid its ongoing war with Hamas</a></p>

<p>The official further said that the humanitarian aid includes "essential life-saving medicines, surgical items, tents, sleeping bags, tarpaulins, sanitary utilities, water purification tablets, among other necessary items".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-israel-hamas-war-spreading-al-qaeda-and-is-call-on-followers-to-attack-jewish-and-us-targets-650184">Amid horror of Israel-Hamas war, al-Qaeda, Islamic State call for global attacks</a></p>

<p>Aid to Palestine comes days after Prime Minister Modi spoke to Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas on Thursday.</p>

<p>During their conversation, PM Modi said that India would continue sending humanitarian assistance to the Palestinians, as he also conveyed his condolences on the loss of civilian lives in the Gaza Strip due to the bombing at a hospital.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (Oct 23) spoke to Jordanian King Abdullah II to discuss their shared concerns towards terrorism, violence and loss of lives.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (Oct 23) spoke to Jordanian King Abdullah II to discuss their shared concerns towards terrorism, violence and loss of lives. Though the whole context of their conversation is unclear, since the conversion is taking place amidst the Israel-Hamas war, their discussion may have been related to the ongoing conflict in the West Asian region. "Spoke with His Majesty @KingAbdullahII of Jordan. Exchanged views on the developments in the West Asia region. We share concerns regarding terrorism, violence and loss of civilian lives,” Modi said on social media platform X. He told the king that further concerted efforts are needed for early resolution of the security and humanitarian situation, alluding to the situation in the Gaza Strip where the stranded civilians have been finding it difficult to access shelter and food amidst Israel's counter operations against the Hamas militants. The Jordanian foreign ministry later in a statement said that both leaders discussed means to stop the deteriorating situation in Gaza. India wants efforts to end war in Gaza “Discussions during the call covered the need to step up international efforts to end the war on Gaza, protect civilians and hospitals, and guarantee the sustained delivery of medical and relief aid into the strip,” the statement said. “His Majesty warned of the deteriorating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and the repercussions of what is happening in the strip on the region and the world,” he added. On Sunday, India sent humanitarian aid to Palestinians in the conflict-torn region. Nearly 6.5 tonnes of medical aid and 32 tonnes of disaster relief material have been sent to Palestine, which will reach the country via Egypt. Modi sends aid to Palestinians External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said on X, "An IAF C-17 flight carrying nearly 6.5 tonnes of medical aid and 32 tonnes of disaster relief material for the people of Palestine departs for El-Arish airport in Egypt." The relief items will be sent to Palestine via the Rafah border crossing between Egypt and Gaza. Also read | Explained | Why Israel bombed Syrian airports, amid its ongoing war with Hamas The official further said that the humanitarian aid includes "essential life-saving medicines, surgical items, tents, sleeping bags, tarpaulins, sanitary utilities, water purification tablets, among other necessary items". Also read | Amid horror of Israel-Hamas war, al-Qaeda, Islamic State call for global attacks Aid to Palestine comes days after Prime Minister Modi spoke to Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas on Thursday. During their conversation, PM Modi said that India would continue sending humanitarian assistance to the Palestinians, as he also conveyed his condolences on the loss of civilian lives in the Gaza Strip due to the bombing at a hospital. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Israel-Hamas war: Indian PM Modi, Jordan King Abdullah II discuss developments in West Asia

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<p>Princess Iman, the eldest daughter of Jordan's King Abdullah II and his wife Queen Rania got married to Jameel Alexander Thermiotis - a New York-based financier from a prominent Greek family in an opulent, private ceremony on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>26-year-old Princess Iman was walked down the aisle by her elder brother Crown Prince Hussein in front of family friends and some Gulf royals. She wore a Dior white wedding dress, featuring long, lace-cuffed sleeves. The look was completed with a tiara and a long veil.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The bride and the groom signed a marriage document in front of the monarch before signing a verse from the holy Quran.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Grateful for all the precious memories we share and overjoyed to see you celebrate your wedding today… I wish you, dear Iman and Jameel, a lifetime of blessings and happiness together," wrote Crown Prince Hussein in an Instagram post.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Similarly, Queen Rania took to her Instagram account to wish the best to the newly married couple.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Congratulations my dearest Iman, your smile has always been a gift of love that I’ve cherished since the day you were born. I wish you and Jameel a life filled with love and laughter!" she captioned the post as saying.&nbsp;</p>

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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-jordans-king-abdullah-ii-warns-israel-547846" target="_blank"><strong>Gravitas: Jordan's King Abdullah II warns Israel</strong></a></p>

<p>The celebrations took place a week after the Royal Hashemite Court shared the wedding date with the public. Notably, the couple's engagement was announced last summer by the royal court.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The Royal Hashemite Court is pleased to announce the engagement of Her Royal Highness Princess Iman bint Abdullah II to Mr. Jameel Alexander Thermiotis, on Tuesday, 5 July 2022," read the announcement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Princess Iman is the eldest daughter of Queen Rania and King Abdullah, who are also parents to Crown Prince Hussein, 28, Princess Salma, 22, and Prince Hashem, 18.</p>

<p>After Iman's marriage, the royal family of Jordan is also gearing up for the wedding of Crown Prince Hussein who will be marrying Rajwa Al Saif, the youngest daughter of Saudi businessman Khaled Al Saif on June 1.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Princess Iman, the eldest daughter of Jordan's King Abdullah II and his wife Queen Rania got married to Jameel Alexander Thermiotis - a New York-based financier from a prominent Greek family in an opulent, private ceremony on Sunday.

Princess Iman, the eldest daughter of Jordan's King Abdullah II and his wife Queen Rania got married to Jameel Alexander Thermiotis - a New York-based financier from a prominent Greek family in an opulent, private ceremony on Sunday. 26-year-old Princess Iman was walked down the aisle by her elder brother Crown Prince Hussein in front of family friends and some Gulf royals. She wore a Dior white wedding dress, featuring long, lace-cuffed sleeves. The look was completed with a tiara and a long veil. The bride and the groom signed a marriage document in front of the monarch before signing a verse from the holy Quran. "Grateful for all the precious memories we share and overjoyed to see you celebrate your wedding today… I wish you, dear Iman and Jameel, a lifetime of blessings and happiness together," wrote Crown Prince Hussein in an Instagram post. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Al Hussein bin Abdullah II (@alhusseinjo) × Similarly, Queen Rania took to her Instagram account to wish the best to the newly married couple. "Congratulations my dearest Iman, your smile has always been a gift of love that I’ve cherished since the day you were born. I wish you and Jameel a life filled with love and laughter!" she captioned the post as saying. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Queen Rania Al Abdullah (@queenrania) × Gravitas: Jordan's King Abdullah II warns Israel The celebrations took place a week after the Royal Hashemite Court shared the wedding date with the public. Notably, the couple's engagement was announced last summer by the royal court. "The Royal Hashemite Court is pleased to announce the engagement of Her Royal Highness Princess Iman bint Abdullah II to Mr. Jameel Alexander Thermiotis, on Tuesday, 5 July 2022," read the announcement. Princess Iman is the eldest daughter of Queen Rania and King Abdullah, who are also parents to Crown Prince Hussein, 28, Princess Salma, 22, and Prince Hashem, 18. After Iman's marriage, the royal family of Jordan is also gearing up for the wedding of Crown Prince Hussein who will be marrying Rajwa Al Saif, the youngest daughter of Saudi businessman Khaled Al Saif on June 1. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Eldest daughter of Jordan's King Abdullah ties the knot in epic royal ceremony

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidu5Nng9XWsGAM" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Jordan, the land of prophets, has been a bastion of stability and moderation in a historically conflicted Arab world. However, a power struggle has been brewing between two brothers which&nbsp;could soon toss the country into an existential crisis.</p>

<p>"It's 11:00 pm on the night of the 3rd of April and I've just been sent a communiqué that was sent out by the chief of staff, claiming that I was asked to not contribute to actions that would hurt the security of Jordan," Prince <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jordans-prince-hamzah-refuses-to-obey-restrictions-on-movements-amid-coup-allegations-375489">Hamzah</a>, Jordan's King Abdullah II's half-brother said.</p>

<p>Prince Hamzah bin Hussein is a former pilot and a former crown prince and the half brother of Jordan's King Abdullah II.</p>

<p>Prince Hamza is a popular figure in his country. The 41-year-old is seen as religious, modest and in touch with the common man. Many admire him also because of his uncanny resemblance to his father the late King Hussein.</p>

<p>Hussein bin Talal was the 40th generation direct descendant of Prophet Muhammad. He ruled Jordan from 1952 to 1999 and married four women and fathered 12 children. Abdullah is the oldest son of his second wife Princess Muna who is a British citizen and Hamzah is the oldest son from his fourth wife queen Noor who is an American.</p>

<p>Out of all his children, King Hussein is said to have favoured Hamzah the most. In 1999, when the king died an untimely death, Abdullah had acceded the throne and in line with his father's dying wishes named Hamza the crown prince only to strip him of the right to succeed in 2004 in favour of his son.</p>

<p>In a letter to his half-brother, the king had said: "I have decided to free you from the constraints of the position of the crown prince in order to give you the freedom to work and undertake any mission or responsibility I entrust you with."</p>

<p>However, Hamzah whom the chance to become king had escaped twice did not see his disinheritance in the same way. He gradually distanced himself from the top circles of power often criticising the Jordanian government over its policies.</p>

<p>His royal blood saved him from being targeted, also Hamzah did not show any signs of an open rivalry with his brother. So he was sidelined and not imprisoned, until last week.</p>

<p>When the authorities became increasingly concerned with Hamza's efforts to reach out to Jordan's powerful tribal leaders with public grievances over the deteriorating economy and corruption on the rise in Jordan, Hamzah is said to have seen it as a chance to increase his public standing, however, the Jordanian authorities viewed it as a threat to the monarchy.</p>

<p>Hamzah bin Hussein was therefore placed under house arrest. The system accuses him of being part of a foreign conspiracy, but the erstwhile crown prince said his fight is only for human dignity and reform.</p>

<p>"There is no conspiracy, whatever concoction they're attempting to create or whatever narrative that they're attempting to sell, the basic fact is this is all about human dignity, freedom from arbitrary government, freedom from invasive security apparatuses and services, and the freedom to live in a country where human dignity and human rights and the human voice are protected and sacred," Prince Hamzah said.</p>


Jordan, the land of prophets, has been a bastion of stability and moderation in a historically conflicted Arab world. However, a power struggle has been brewing between two brothers which could soon toss the country into an existential crisis.

Jordan, the land of prophets, has been a bastion of stability and moderation in a historically conflicted Arab world. However, a power struggle has been brewing between two brothers which could soon toss the country into an existential crisis. "It's 11:00 pm on the night of the 3rd of April and I've just been sent a communiqué that was sent out by the chief of staff, claiming that I was asked to not contribute to actions that would hurt the security of Jordan," Prince Hamzah, Jordan's King Abdullah II's half-brother said. Prince Hamzah bin Hussein is a former pilot and a former crown prince and the half brother of Jordan's King Abdullah II. Prince Hamza is a popular figure in his country. The 41-year-old is seen as religious, modest and in touch with the common man. Many admire him also because of his uncanny resemblance to his father the late King Hussein. Hussein bin Talal was the 40th generation direct descendant of Prophet Muhammad. He ruled Jordan from 1952 to 1999 and married four women and fathered 12 children. Abdullah is the oldest son of his second wife Princess Muna who is a British citizen and Hamzah is the oldest son from his fourth wife queen Noor who is an American. Out of all his children, King Hussein is said to have favoured Hamzah the most. In 1999, when the king died an untimely death, Abdullah had acceded the throne and in line with his father's dying wishes named Hamza the crown prince only to strip him of the right to succeed in 2004 in favour of his son. In a letter to his half-brother, the king had said: "I have decided to free you from the constraints of the position of the crown prince in order to give you the freedom to work and undertake any mission or responsibility I entrust you with." However, Hamzah whom the chance to become king had escaped twice did not see his disinheritance in the same way. He gradually distanced himself from the top circles of power often criticising the Jordanian government over its policies. His royal blood saved him from being targeted, also Hamzah did not show any signs of an open rivalry with his brother. So he was sidelined and not imprisoned, until last week. When the authorities became increasingly concerned with Hamza's efforts to reach out to Jordan's powerful tribal leaders with public grievances over the deteriorating economy and corruption on the rise in Jordan, Hamzah is said to have seen it as a chance to increase his public standing, however, the Jordanian authorities viewed it as a threat to the monarchy. Hamzah bin Hussein was therefore placed under house arrest. The system accuses him of being part of a foreign conspiracy, but the erstwhile crown prince said his fight is only for human dignity and reform. "There is no conspiracy, whatever concoction they're attempting to create or whatever narrative that they're attempting to sell, the basic fact is this is all about human dignity, freedom from arbitrary government, freedom from invasive security apparatuses and services, and the freedom to live in a country where human dignity and human rights and the human voice are protected and sacred," Prince Hamzah said.

How power struggle ignited between Jordan Prince Hamzah and King Abdullah II

<p>The Arab world is not alien to the Game of Thrones, sometimes it ends quickly like a T20 cricket match but at times it stretches and takes the form of Test cricket with the last played in the house of Saud.</p>

<p>Saudi crown prince Mohammad bin Salman had arrested the former head of army intelligence Prince Nayef bin Ahmed. He had also arrested the younger brother of King Salman-- Prince Ahmed bin Abdulaziz to reportedly quash a potential coup.</p>

<p>In 2017, princes, ministers and businessmen were arrested and the Ritz Carlton in Riyadh was converted into a fancy prison - fast forward to April 2021 and a game of thrones is underway in the house of Hashim.</p>

<p>Jordan's former crown prince Humzah bin Hussein is under house arrest. He has been accused of targeting the country's security and stability. Jordan's allies like the United States have come out in support of his arrest with statements issued in support of Jordan's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-power-struggle-ignited-between-jordan-prince-hamzah-and-king-abdullah-ii-375561">King Abdullah II</a>.</p>

<p>The statements have also come from Morocco, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Bahrain, Lebanon, Kuwait, Iraq, Qatar, Yemen, Palestine and the United Arab Emirates, also the Gulf Cooperation Council and the Arab League.</p>

<p>Arab countries like Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and the UAE have oil money, however, Jordan does not have any but it has stability. It has a history of building bridges and it is a precious skill in the region and is celebrated internationally.</p>

<p>Jordan is considered a stable partner by many countries with the United States being one of them. The US has given Jordan access to military equipment and aid and American forces regularly train with Jordanians.</p>

<p>The kingdom is home to 3,000 American troops. Jordan is also home to more than 2 million registered Palestinian refugees. Like India, Jordan has been able to find the delicate balance of maintaining ties with both Israel and Palestine instead of pitting one against another.</p>

<p>Jordan was one of the first Arab countries to sign a peace deal with Israel as early as 1994. Now other Arab countries have joined hands with Israel and aligning together against Iran.</p>

<p>It is said that it is not about the Sunni-Shia divide but about security and stability, the Arabs say and they use the same words in the context of Jordan- security and stability.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Every statement issued by the Arab world says the same, like a chorus. It shows how critical Jordan is to regional stability which is the main reason, the second reason is religion.</p>

<p>Jordan is the custodian of holy sites in Jerusalem including the al Aqsa mosque. It is the third holiest site in Islam and also controls Christian and Jewish sites.</p>

<p>The other reason is Jordan is strategically important. It has withstood the impact of a 10-year-long Syrian civil war in its north. It was also a key player in defeating ISIS.</p>

<p>Today, Jordan hosts 600,000 Syrian refugees and 2 million Palestinian refugees live in the country. It also has a presence of the Muslim brotherhood. Unrest in the country could translate into chaos on its borders and could put the entire Arab region at risk.</p>

<p>While palace intrigues and power plays between rival princes is common in the Gulf region - in Jordan, it's rare. The country has a reputation for stability and making peace. Jordan was the first Arab state to reestablish diplomatic ties with Egypt back in 1984.</p>

<p>The Gulf region is in a delicate phase. There is a new oil order brought about by the pandemic, evolving geopolitics driven by a peace deal, a common enemy and a new American leadership that's vetting the West Asia policy of the old regime.</p>


The Arab world is not alien to the Game of Thrones, sometimes it ends quickly like a T20 cricket match but at times it stretches and takes the form of Test cricket with the last played in the house of Saud.

The Arab world is not alien to the Game of Thrones, sometimes it ends quickly like a T20 cricket match but at times it stretches and takes the form of Test cricket with the last played in the house of Saud. Saudi crown prince Mohammad bin Salman had arrested the former head of army intelligence Prince Nayef bin Ahmed. He had also arrested the younger brother of King Salman-- Prince Ahmed bin Abdulaziz to reportedly quash a potential coup. In 2017, princes, ministers and businessmen were arrested and the Ritz Carlton in Riyadh was converted into a fancy prison - fast forward to April 2021 and a game of thrones is underway in the house of Hashim. Jordan's former crown prince Humzah bin Hussein is under house arrest. He has been accused of targeting the country's security and stability. Jordan's allies like the United States have come out in support of his arrest with statements issued in support of Jordan's King Abdullah II. The statements have also come from Morocco, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Bahrain, Lebanon, Kuwait, Iraq, Qatar, Yemen, Palestine and the United Arab Emirates, also the Gulf Cooperation Council and the Arab League. Arab countries like Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and the UAE have oil money, however, Jordan does not have any but it has stability. It has a history of building bridges and it is a precious skill in the region and is celebrated internationally. Jordan is considered a stable partner by many countries with the United States being one of them. The US has given Jordan access to military equipment and aid and American forces regularly train with Jordanians. The kingdom is home to 3,000 American troops. Jordan is also home to more than 2 million registered Palestinian refugees. Like India, Jordan has been able to find the delicate balance of maintaining ties with both Israel and Palestine instead of pitting one against another. Jordan was one of the first Arab countries to sign a peace deal with Israel as early as 1994. Now other Arab countries have joined hands with Israel and aligning together against Iran. It is said that it is not about the Sunni-Shia divide but about security and stability, the Arabs say and they use the same words in the context of Jordan- security and stability. Every statement issued by the Arab world says the same, like a chorus. It shows how critical Jordan is to regional stability which is the main reason, the second reason is religion. Jordan is the custodian of holy sites in Jerusalem including the al Aqsa mosque. It is the third holiest site in Islam and also controls Christian and Jewish sites. The other reason is Jordan is strategically important. It has withstood the impact of a 10-year-long Syrian civil war in its north. It was also a key player in defeating ISIS. Today, Jordan hosts 600,000 Syrian refugees and 2 million Palestinian refugees live in the country. It also has a presence of the Muslim brotherhood. Unrest in the country could translate into chaos on its borders and could put the entire Arab region at risk. While palace intrigues and power plays between rival princes is common in the Gulf region - in Jordan, it's rare. The country has a reputation for stability and making peace. Jordan was the first Arab state to reestablish diplomatic ties with Egypt back in 1984. The Gulf region is in a delicate phase. There is a new oil order brought about by the pandemic, evolving geopolitics driven by a peace deal, a common enemy and a new American leadership that's vetting the West Asia policy of the old regime.

Why stability in Jordan matters

<p>Several suspects have been arrested in a security sweep in Jordan, as the army cautioned a half-brother of King Abdullah II against damaging the country's security.</p>

<p>Official news agency Petra named former close aides to the royal family Bassem Awadallah, chief of the royal court in 2007-2008, and Sherif Hassan bin Zaid among an unspecified number of suspects arrested on late Saturday night. Sherif is a title given to those close to the royal family in Jordan.</p>

<p>Videos posted online showed a heavy police deployment in the Dabouq area near the royal palaces, while the former crown prince Hamzah bin Hussein said he was confined to his home.</p>

<p>In a video the BBC said it obtained from his lawyer, Prince Hamzah said a number of his friends had been arrested, his security removed and his internet and phone lines cut.</p>

<p>He denied being part of "any conspiracy or nefarious organisation", but said the Hashemite kingdom had "become stymied in corruption, in nepotism, and in misrule" where no-one was allowed to criticise the authorities.</p>

<p>In a statement published by the state news agency, the military said the warning to Prince Hamzah was part of a broader, ongoing security investigation in which a former minister, a junior member of the royal family and unnamed others were detained.</p>

<p>Prince Hamzah said in a video recording he was under house arrest and had been told to stay at home and not contact anyone.</p>

<p>Joint Chiefs of Staff head, Major General Yousef Huneiti said the prince had been "asked to stop some activities that could be used to shake the stability and security of Jordan".</p>

<p>The Washington Post has, meanwhile, alleged the former crown prince was "placed under restriction" as part of a probe into an alleged plot to unseat the king.</p>

<p>The alleged plot "included at least one other Jordanian royal as well as tribal leaders and members of the country's security establishment," the US daily added.</p>

<p>US State Department spokesman Ned Price said Washington was "closely following" the events in its close regional ally.</p>

<p>Neighbouring Saudi Arabia reacted swiftly to developments in Amman.</p>

<p>"The kingdom stresses its full support for the Hashemite kingdom of Jordan ... and for the decisions and measures taken by King Abdullah II and Crown Prince Hussein to safeguard security and stability," it said.</p>

<p><strong>HISTORY</strong></p>

<p>Hamzah is the eldest son of late King Hussein and his American wife Queen Noor. He has good relations officially with Abdullah, his half-brother, and is a popular figure close to tribal leaders.</p>

<p>Abdullah had appointed Hamzah crown prince in 1999 in line with Hussein's dying wish, but in 2004 stripped him of the title and gave it to his own eldest son Hussein.</p>

<p>Prince Hamzah is not seen as a major threat to Jordan`s monarchy and has been marginalised for years, but the move against him represents the first such incident involving a close member of the royal family since King Abdullah came to the throne.</p>

<p>The authorities have become increasingly concerned with his efforts to build ties with disgruntled figures within powerful tribes.</p>

<p>The army denied Saturday that Prince Hamzah, who holds no official position, had been detained.</p>

<p>Saturday's security sweep comes as Jordan prepares to mark 100 years since the new kingdom then named Transjordan was established alongside Palestine under British mandate.</p>

<p>It declared independence in 1946, and despite having little oil wealth, severely lacking water and repeatedly being rocked by wars on its borders, the kingdom has managed to survive the regional upheavals.</p>

<p><em><strong>(with inputs from agencies)</strong></em></p>


Several suspects have been arrested in a security sweep in Jordan, as the army cautioned a half-brother of King Abdullah II against damaging the country's security.

Several suspects have been arrested in a security sweep in Jordan, as the army cautioned a half-brother of King Abdullah II against damaging the country's security. Official news agency Petra named former close aides to the royal family Bassem Awadallah, chief of the royal court in 2007-2008, and Sherif Hassan bin Zaid among an unspecified number of suspects arrested on late Saturday night. Sherif is a title given to those close to the royal family in Jordan. Videos posted online showed a heavy police deployment in the Dabouq area near the royal palaces, while the former crown prince Hamzah bin Hussein said he was confined to his home. In a video the BBC said it obtained from his lawyer, Prince Hamzah said a number of his friends had been arrested, his security removed and his internet and phone lines cut. He denied being part of "any conspiracy or nefarious organisation", but said the Hashemite kingdom had "become stymied in corruption, in nepotism, and in misrule" where no-one was allowed to criticise the authorities. In a statement published by the state news agency, the military said the warning to Prince Hamzah was part of a broader, ongoing security investigation in which a former minister, a junior member of the royal family and unnamed others were detained. Prince Hamzah said in a video recording he was under house arrest and had been told to stay at home and not contact anyone. Joint Chiefs of Staff head, Major General Yousef Huneiti said the prince had been "asked to stop some activities that could be used to shake the stability and security of Jordan". The Washington Post has, meanwhile, alleged the former crown prince was "placed under restriction" as part of a probe into an alleged plot to unseat the king. The alleged plot "included at least one other Jordanian royal as well as tribal leaders and members of the country's security establishment," the US daily added. US State Department spokesman Ned Price said Washington was "closely following" the events in its close regional ally. Neighbouring Saudi Arabia reacted swiftly to developments in Amman. "The kingdom stresses its full support for the Hashemite kingdom of Jordan ... and for the decisions and measures taken by King Abdullah II and Crown Prince Hussein to safeguard security and stability," it said. HISTORY Hamzah is the eldest son of late King Hussein and his American wife Queen Noor. He has good relations officially with Abdullah, his half-brother, and is a popular figure close to tribal leaders. Abdullah had appointed Hamzah crown prince in 1999 in line with Hussein's dying wish, but in 2004 stripped him of the title and gave it to his own eldest son Hussein. Prince Hamzah is not seen as a major threat to Jordan`s monarchy and has been marginalised for years, but the move against him represents the first such incident involving a close member of the royal family since King Abdullah came to the throne. The authorities have become increasingly concerned with his efforts to build ties with disgruntled figures within powerful tribes. The army denied Saturday that Prince Hamzah, who holds no official position, had been detained. Saturday's security sweep comes as Jordan prepares to mark 100 years since the new kingdom then named Transjordan was established alongside Palestine under British mandate. It declared independence in 1946, and despite having little oil wealth, severely lacking water and repeatedly being rocked by wars on its borders, the kingdom has managed to survive the regional upheavals. (with inputs from agencies)

Jordan in security sweep, king's half-brother put under house arrest

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said the fight against terrorism and radicalisation was not against any religion, but against a mindset that misguides the young.</p>

<p>Every religion promotes human values, the prime minister said in his address at a conference on &#39;Islamic Heritage: Promoting Understanding &amp; Moderation&#39;, where Jordan&#39;s King Abdullah II was also present.</p>

<p>India, the prime minister added, had been a &quot;cradle of all major religions in the world&quot;.</p>

<p>Indian democracy is a celebration of age-old pluralism, Modi said. According to him, all faiths promote human values. &quot;... Therefore, our youth should associate themselves with the humanitarian aspects of Islam and should also able to use modern technology&quot;, he said.</p>

<p>Sharing his views on religion, Abdullah II said faith should hold humanity together.</p>

<p>Faith allows us to prosper and thrive, he said while emphasising that people should reject voices which spread hatred.</p>

<p>&quot;Our strongest defence against turmoil is inclusion,&quot; he said.</p>


Every religion promotes human values, the prime minister said in his address

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said the fight against terrorism and radicalisation was not against any religion, but against a mindset that misguides the young. Every religion promotes human values, the prime minister said in his address at a conference on 'Islamic Heritage: Promoting Understanding & Moderation', where Jordan's King Abdullah II was also present. India, the prime minister added, had been a "cradle of all major religions in the world". Indian democracy is a celebration of age-old pluralism, Modi said. According to him, all faiths promote human values. "... Therefore, our youth should associate themselves with the humanitarian aspects of Islam and should also able to use modern technology", he said. Sharing his views on religion, Abdullah II said faith should hold humanity together. Faith allows us to prosper and thrive, he said while emphasising that people should reject voices which spread hatred. "Our strongest defence against turmoil is inclusion," he said.

Fight against terrorism not against any religion: PM Narendra Modi

<p>The core of a religion cannot be inhumane. Every religion, every sect, every tradition promotes human values. Thus, it is important that today our youth should connect with humane Islam while being able to utilise modern science and technology at the same time, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Modi was taking part in an Islamic conference in New Delhi along with Jordan King Abdullah II, who is on a state visit to India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The conference, themed &lsquo;Islamic Heritage: Promoting Understanding and Moderation&rsquo;, has brought together scholars of the Islamic studies from across the world.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In India, we have one mission - to take along everyone on the path to development, Modi said and added &#39;&#39;Our heritage and values, the message of our religions and our morals are the basis on which we challenge violent and terror elements. Those who commit crimes against humanity do not understand that their actions also hurt people of that religion, which they claim to be protecting,&#39;&#39; he said.</p>

<p>It is the power which allows ever Indian to respect our glorious past, believe in our present and have faith in our future, &nbsp;Modis said.</p>

<p>India has hosted religions from across the world. In India&#39;s atmosphere, they have thrived. Be it Lord Budhha 2500 years ago or Mahatma Gandhi a century ago - India has always spread the message of peace and love to the world, PM said.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;&nbsp;<br />
Jordan and India are etched in the religious text. Jordan is located on a holy land, from where the message of God is spreading through His messengers across the globe, Modi said.</p>

<p>PM Modi and Jordanian King will hold bilateral talks on India-Jordan relations after the conference.&nbsp;</p>


Modi was taking part in an Islamic conference in New Delhi along with Jordan King Abdullah II, who is on a state visit to India.

The core of a religion cannot be inhumane. Every religion, every sect, every tradition promotes human values. Thus, it is important that today our youth should connect with humane Islam while being able to utilise modern science and technology at the same time, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday. Modi was taking part in an Islamic conference in New Delhi along with Jordan King Abdullah II, who is on a state visit to India. The conference, themed ‘Islamic Heritage: Promoting Understanding and Moderation’, has brought together scholars of the Islamic studies from across the world. In India, we have one mission - to take along everyone on the path to development, Modi said and added ''Our heritage and values, the message of our religions and our morals are the basis on which we challenge violent and terror elements. Those who commit crimes against humanity do not understand that their actions also hurt people of that religion, which they claim to be protecting,'' he said. It is the power which allows ever Indian to respect our glorious past, believe in our present and have faith in our future, Modis said. India has hosted religions from across the world. In India's atmosphere, they have thrived. Be it Lord Budhha 2500 years ago or Mahatma Gandhi a century ago - India has always spread the message of peace and love to the world, PM said. Jordan and India are etched in the religious text. Jordan is located on a holy land, from where the message of God is spreading through His messengers across the globe, Modi said. PM Modi and Jordanian King will hold bilateral talks on India-Jordan relations after the conference.

Core of religion cannot be inhumane: PM Narendra Modi