The world's heaviest man alive Khalid bin Mohsen Shaari has undergone a historic transformation by losing 542 kgs with the help of Saudi Arabia's former King Abdullah.&nbsp;

Shaari once weighed 610 kgs but after going through the life-altering change is now weighing only 63 kgs.

Shaari was bedridden for more than three years because of his weight and his condition deteriorated day by day as he became more dependent on his family and parents for his basic needs.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:90,&quot;y&quot;:178,&quot;w&quot;:455,&quot;h&quot;:16,&quot;abs_x&quot;:123,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2128}" href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/wife-demands-fee-for-sex-from-too-fat-husband-couple-gets-divorce-747778">Wife demands fee for sex from 'too fat' husband, couple gets divorce</a>

He finally got extensive medical care for free because of the intervention of the former Saudi king.

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:7,&quot;y&quot;:246,&quot;w&quot;:649,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:40,&quot;abs_y&quot;:2196}">Here's what the Saudi king did for the world's heaviest man</h2>

The condition of Shaari caught King Abdullah's attention in 2013 and he decided to set up a comprehensive medical plan for him.

In the plan laid out for Shaari, a team of 30 medical professionals was formed to handle his case.&nbsp;

With the help of a specially designed bed and forklift, Shaari was shifted from his house in Jazan to King Fahad Medical City in Riyadh to undergo treatment.

As part of his treatment plan, he underwent gastric bypass surgery and followed a tailored diet as well as a rigorous exercise regimen.&nbsp;

In the first six months, extensive physiotherapy and intensive care helped him lose almost half of his body weight.&nbsp;

By 2023, the man's weight was reduced to 63.5 kilograms. But he had to go through multiple surgeries to remove the excess skin which was left because of such a major weight loss.

People who undergo such significant weight loss generally have to go through excess skin removal surgery so that their skin can adapt to their new body shape.

Now, the man is called "The Smiling Man" which is the nickname he was awarded by the medical staff who saw his remarkable transformation.

(With inputs from agencies)

The world's heaviest man alive Khalid bin Mohsen Shaari has undergone a historic transformation by losing 542 kgs with the help of Saudi Arabia's former King Abdullah.

The world's heaviest man alive Khalid bin Mohsen Shaari has undergone a historic transformation by losing 542 kgs with the help of Saudi Arabia's former King Abdullah. Shaari once weighed 610 kgs but after going through the life-altering change is now weighing only 63 kgs. Shaari was bedridden for more than three years because of his weight and his condition deteriorated day by day as he became more dependent on his family and parents for his basic needs. Also Read: Wife demands fee for sex from 'too fat' husband, couple gets divorce He finally got extensive medical care for free because of the intervention of the former Saudi king. Here's what the Saudi king did for the world's heaviest man The condition of Shaari caught King Abdullah's attention in 2013 and he decided to set up a comprehensive medical plan for him. In the plan laid out for Shaari, a team of 30 medical professionals was formed to handle his case. With the help of a specially designed bed and forklift, Shaari was shifted from his house in Jazan to King Fahad Medical City in Riyadh to undergo treatment. As part of his treatment plan, he underwent gastric bypass surgery and followed a tailored diet as well as a rigorous exercise regimen. In the first six months, extensive physiotherapy and intensive care helped him lose almost half of his body weight. By 2023, the man's weight was reduced to 63.5 kilograms. But he had to go through multiple surgeries to remove the excess skin which was left because of such a major weight loss. People who undergo such significant weight loss generally have to go through excess skin removal surgery so that their skin can adapt to their new body shape. Now, the man is called "The Smiling Man" which is the nickname he was awarded by the medical staff who saw his remarkable transformation. (With inputs from agencies)

World's heaviest man alive loses 542kg. Here's how he went from 610kg to 63kg

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday (January 24) made a surprise visit to Jordan to hold talks with King Abdullah amid increasing tensions over the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in East Jerusalem.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday (January 24) made a surprise visit to Jordan to hold talks with King Abdullah amid increasing tensions over the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in East Jerusalem. According to the royal palace, Netanyahu and King Abdullah discussed the situation in the compound and the importance of respecting the historical and legal status quo. Netanyahu's office, meanwhile, said that the Israeli Prime Minister and the Jordanian King discussed regional issues, especially strategic, security and economic cooperation between the two countries, a report by the news agency AFP said. The visit to Amman was Netanyahu's first official trip abroad since taking office. He had previously met the monarch in 2018. The latest meeting between the two leaders comes following years of strained relations. Why does Netanyahu's visit to Jordan hold significance? Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's visit to Jordan came amid increasing tensions over the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound. On January 3, Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel's extreme right-wing national security minister, visited the holy site, sparking global condemnation. The compound is a highly sensitive site sacred to both Islam and Judaism. Palestinians labelled Itamar Ben-Gvir's January 3 visit as a provocation. The meeting on Tuesday also seemed an avenue for Netanyahu and Jordanian King Abdullah to mend their relations. What does the status quo say? Under the status quo agreement, the Al-Aqsa mosque is administered by Jordan in coordination with the Palestinians but access to the site is controlled by Israel's security forces. As per rules, Muslims are allowed to enter the esplanade at all times of the day and night. However, non-Muslims can only do so at certain times and without praying. ALSO READ | Explained: Why has Israeli minister Ben-Gvir’s visit to Al-Aqsa mosque sparked outrage? In the past few years, the Israeli Police have repeatedly closed access to the compound during times of tension and the number of Jews paying a visit (to the holy site) has increased. Some ultra-nationalist Jews have been caught praying at the esplanade, leading to tensions with Muslim worshippers. They also want to build a Third Temple at the site. WION had earlier reported that Israeli minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has long sought to change the status quo of the holy site and is also allegedly an advocate for Jewish prayer to take place. Ahead of his January 3 tour, Jordan signalled that a visit by the Israeli minister or moves which violated the status quo would have far-reaching consequences, according to a report by the Times of Israel on Tuesday. Netanyahu-King Abdullah meeting after years of tense relations During Netanyahu's last stint as Israel's Prime Minister, ties between Jerusalem and Amman had deteriorated. Jordanian King Abdullah had repeatedly described ties with Israel as a "cold peace", and said in 2019 that relations between the two countries were at an all-time low. The Times of Israel report on Tuesday said that Jordan was nervous over changes to the Temple Mount during Netanyahu’s previous tenure. In 2019, King Abdullah said that he was under pressure to alter his country's role on Temple Mount, but the monarch said he would not change in position, the report added. In January this year, the foreign ministry in Amman summoned Israel's ambassador twice, first to protest against Itamar Ben-Gvir's visit to the Al-Aqsa mosque compound and second after Israeli police prevented the Jordanian ambassador from entering the holy site. Jordan's concerns after Netanyahu's return to power Netanyahu becoming Israel's prime minister again has deepened Jordan's concerns that ultra-right policies, which include an accelerated Jewish settlement building in Palestinian territories in the West Bank, will cause a new wave of violence, news agency Reuters reported on Tuesday. Jordan also fears provocative moves by ultra-right Jewish groups praying at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound could inflame religious passions. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: Why is Israeli PM Netanyahu's visit to Jordan important?

Amid the diplomatic tensions over the Al-Aqsa mosque controversy, Jordan's King Abdullah held a meeting with Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. According to Jordan's Royal Court, Abdullah told Netanyahu that Israel should respect the historic legal status-quo in the holy Al-Aqsa mosque and not violate it.

Jordan's King Abdullah, Israel's Netanyahu discuss Al-Aqsa mosque tensions

Jordan's King Abdullah meets Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, discuss Al-Aqsa tensions

Jordan's King Abdullah II has a hidden property empire worth more than $100 million according to the Pandora Papers. On The West Asia Post, Ghadi Francis tells you what this means for the monarch amid rising discontent in the kingdom.

The West Asia Post: Jordan king's hidden property empire

The Pandora Papers have exposed the secret wealth and dealings of West Asian leaders, including Jordan's King Abdullah and Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati. For more such stories, keep watching the West Asia post with Ghadi Francis every Friday at 8:30 PM IST, only on WION.

The West Asia Post: Pandora Papers reveals hidden wealth of the powerful

US President Joe Biden welcomed Jordan's King Abdullah II to the White House on Monday. Before the bilateral meeting, Biden called King Abdullah a good, loyal and decent friend.

US President Biden welcomes Jordan's King Abdullah II to White House

Marking the first visit by an Egyptian president to Iraq since the 1990 invasion of Kuwait by Saddam Hussein, Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi arrived in Baghdad on Sunday.

The decades earlier conflict had badly damaged the relations between Egypt and Iraq; however, the relations have witnessed an improvement in recent years with many senior officials from both countries exchanging visits.

In a bid to boost Iraqi ties with Arab nations, and counter Iran’s influence in the country, Sisi's visit is part of a summit between Egypt, Jordan and Iraq.

The fourth round of talks between these countries, this summit is aimed at strengthening security, economic, trade and investment cooperation. In recent years, Iraq has also signed cooperation deals with Jordan and Egypt in the energy, health and education sectors.

Shortly after Sisi’s arrival, Jordan's King Abdullah also arrived in Baghdad. They were received by Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi and Iraqi President Barham Salih.

While Iraq’s Kadhimi, Sisi and Jordan’s Abdullah were supposed to have a summit in Baghdad in April, they had to postpone due to a train crash in Egypt that left dozens dead and wounded.

After Iraq's cabinet in December approved renewing its contract to supply the Egyptian General Petroleum Corporation (EGPC) with 12 million barrels of Basra light crude for the year 2021, Egypt in February signed 15 deals and memoranda of understanding in various sectors including oil, roads, housing, construction and trade.

"The president affirmed Egypt's aspiration in developing bilateral cooperation with Iraq into a sustainable framework of economic integration and strategic cooperation, especially in light of the great challenges facing the region," said an Egypt presidency statement.

A pipeline that will hold the capacity to export 1 million barrels per day of Iraqi crude from the southern city of Basra to Jordan's Red Sea port of Aqaba is also being planned by Iraq.

(With inputs from agencies)

Marking the first visit by an Egyptian president to Iraq since the 1990 invasion of Kuwait by Saddam Hussein, Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi arrived in Baghdad on Sunday.

Marking the first visit by an Egyptian president to Iraq since the 1990 invasion of Kuwait by Saddam Hussein, Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi arrived in Baghdad on Sunday. The decades earlier conflict had badly damaged the relations between Egypt and Iraq; however, the relations have witnessed an improvement in recent years with many senior officials from both countries exchanging visits. In a bid to boost Iraqi ties with Arab nations, and counter Iran’s influence in the country, Sisi's visit is part of a summit between Egypt, Jordan and Iraq. The fourth round of talks between these countries, this summit is aimed at strengthening security, economic, trade and investment cooperation. In recent years, Iraq has also signed cooperation deals with Jordan and Egypt in the energy, health and education sectors. Shortly after Sisi’s arrival, Jordan's King Abdullah also arrived in Baghdad. They were received by Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi and Iraqi President Barham Salih. While Iraq’s Kadhimi, Sisi and Jordan’s Abdullah were supposed to have a summit in Baghdad in April, they had to postpone due to a train crash in Egypt that left dozens dead and wounded. After Iraq's cabinet in December approved renewing its contract to supply the Egyptian General Petroleum Corporation (EGPC) with 12 million barrels of Basra light crude for the year 2021, Egypt in February signed 15 deals and memoranda of understanding in various sectors including oil, roads, housing, construction and trade. "The president affirmed Egypt's aspiration in developing bilateral cooperation with Iraq into a sustainable framework of economic integration and strategic cooperation, especially in light of the great challenges facing the region," said an Egypt presidency statement. A pipeline that will hold the capacity to export 1 million barrels per day of Iraqi crude from the southern city of Basra to Jordan's Red Sea port of Aqaba is also being planned by Iraq. (With inputs from agencies)

Sisi marks first Iraq visit by an Egyptian leader in decades

Jordan's King Abdullah and former crown prince and half-brother Prince Hamza made their first joint appearance since a rift shook the country, attending a ceremony on Sunday marking 100 years of independence.&nbsp;

State media showed the monarch and other members of the royal family laying wreaths at the memorial to the unknown soldier and tombs of royalty in the Raghdan palace in Amman.&nbsp;

Hamza pledged allegiance to King Abdullah late on Monday following mediation by the royal family, two days after the military warned him over actions that it said were undermining Jordan’s security and stability. &nbsp;

On Wednesday, in the first statement since the affair came to light, King Jordan said sedition had been quashed and Hamza was 'under my care' with his family at his palace. &nbsp;

The monarch said the crisis was ‘the most painful' because it came from both inside the royal family and outside it.&nbsp;

Hamza's absence after he appeared in a video on April 3 saying he had been ordered to stay at home and accused the country's rulers of corruption and authoritarian rule led to speculation about his whereabouts.&nbsp;

In announcing last week that the military had warned Hamza over his actions, the government said that Hamza had liaised with people linked to foreign parties seeking to destabilise Jordan and that he had been under investigation for some time.&nbsp;

Hamza had been widely expected to succeed Abdullah as Jordan’s next king, until the monarch made his own son, Prince Hussein, heir instead in 2004, in line with family tradition.&nbsp;

While Hamza and Abdullah have publicly buried the hatchet, the dramatic events of the last week exposed faultlines within a royal family that has helped shield Jordan from the turmoil that has consumed neighbouring Syria and Iraq.&nbsp;

The rift within the monarchy has shaken the country's reputation as a stable country in a volatile region.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Jordan's King Abdullah and former crown prince and half-brother Prince Hamza made their first joint appearance since a rift shook the country, attending a ceremony on Sunday marking 100 years of independence.

Jordan's King Abdullah and former crown prince and half-brother Prince Hamza made their first joint appearance since a rift shook the country, attending a ceremony on Sunday marking 100 years of independence. State media showed the monarch and other members of the royal family laying wreaths at the memorial to the unknown soldier and tombs of royalty in the Raghdan palace in Amman. Hamza pledged allegiance to King Abdullah late on Monday following mediation by the royal family, two days after the military warned him over actions that it said were undermining Jordan’s security and stability. On Wednesday, in the first statement since the affair came to light, King Jordan said sedition had been quashed and Hamza was 'under my care' with his family at his palace. The monarch said the crisis was ‘the most painful' because it came from both inside the royal family and outside it. Hamza's absence after he appeared in a video on April 3 saying he had been ordered to stay at home and accused the country's rulers of corruption and authoritarian rule led to speculation about his whereabouts. In announcing last week that the military had warned Hamza over his actions, the government said that Hamza had liaised with people linked to foreign parties seeking to destabilise Jordan and that he had been under investigation for some time. Hamza had been widely expected to succeed Abdullah as Jordan’s next king, until the monarch made his own son, Prince Hussein, heir instead in 2004, in line with family tradition. While Hamza and Abdullah have publicly buried the hatchet, the dramatic events of the last week exposed faultlines within a royal family that has helped shield Jordan from the turmoil that has consumed neighbouring Syria and Iraq. The rift within the monarchy has shaken the country's reputation as a stable country in a volatile region. (With inputs from agencies)

Jordan's King Abdullah, Prince Hamza make first joint appearance since rift

Jordan&nbsp;banned all news outlets and social media users on Tuesday from publishing any content related to King Abdullah's half-brother Prince Hamzah after the latter was accused of plotting to destabilise the country.

Prince Hamzah had on Saturday harshly criticised&nbsp;Jordan's leaders from what he said was house arrest,&nbsp;but in a dramatic about-turn on Monday, pledged his loyalty to the royal family.

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The palace released a signed statement in which the 41-year-old prince had changed his tone and pledged to "always be ready to help and support His Majesty the King and his Crown Prince".

The monarchy ruling&nbsp;Jordan&nbsp;-- a country long regarded as a pro-Western anchor of stability in a turbulent region-- declared it was settling the matter "within the framework of the Hashemite family".

Amman's prosecutor general on Tuesday banned the publication of any information about the investigation into what the government has called a "wicked" plot against&nbsp;Jordan&nbsp;involving unnamed foreign entities.

The government has accused Hamzah, a former crown prince who was sidelined as heir to the throne in 2004, of involvement in a conspiracy to "destabilise the kingdom's security" and also arrested at least 16 people.

"In order to keep the security services' investigation into Prince Hamzah and the others secret, (it is decided) to ban the publication of anything related to this inquiry at this stage," prosecutor Hassan al-Abdallat said in a statement.

"The ban on publication involves all audiovisual media and social networks, as well as the publication of all images or video clips relating to this subject on pain of legal action."

The government says he liaised with people linked to foreign parties in a plot to destabilise&nbsp;Jordan&nbsp;and that he had been under investigation for some time.

Prince Hamza said in a voice recording released by&nbsp;Jordan's opposition on Monday that he would not comply after being barred from any activity and told to keep quiet.

While not considered a direct threat to the king, Hamza in recent weeks visited tribal gatherings where the king and his government have been criticised more openly.

Saudi Arabia was among the countries to issue statements of support to King Abdullah, and on Monday Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan travelled to Amman to meet his&nbsp;Jordanian counterpart Ayman Safadi, the&nbsp;Jordanian foreign ministry said.

"King Salman reaffirmed the kingdom's support to all measures to protect&nbsp;Jordan&nbsp;and its interests," Saudi state TV reported.

King Abdullah had expressed "appreciation for the kingdom's continuous support to&nbsp;Jordan," it said.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Jordan banned all news outlets and social media users on Tuesday from publishing any content related to King Abdullah's half-brother Prince Hamzah after the latter was accused of plotting to destabilise the country.

Jordan banned all news outlets and social media users on Tuesday from publishing any content related to King Abdullah's half-brother Prince Hamzah after the latter was accused of plotting to destabilise the country. Prince Hamzah had on Saturday harshly criticised Jordan's leaders from what he said was house arrest, but in a dramatic about-turn on Monday, pledged his loyalty to the royal family. The palace released a signed statement in which the 41-year-old prince had changed his tone and pledged to "always be ready to help and support His Majesty the King and his Crown Prince". The monarchy ruling Jordan -- a country long regarded as a pro-Western anchor of stability in a turbulent region-- declared it was settling the matter "within the framework of the Hashemite family". Amman's prosecutor general on Tuesday banned the publication of any information about the investigation into what the government has called a "wicked" plot against Jordan involving unnamed foreign entities. The government has accused Hamzah, a former crown prince who was sidelined as heir to the throne in 2004, of involvement in a conspiracy to "destabilise the kingdom's security" and also arrested at least 16 people. "In order to keep the security services' investigation into Prince Hamzah and the others secret, (it is decided) to ban the publication of anything related to this inquiry at this stage," prosecutor Hassan al-Abdallat said in a statement. "The ban on publication involves all audiovisual media and social networks, as well as the publication of all images or video clips relating to this subject on pain of legal action." The government says he liaised with people linked to foreign parties in a plot to destabilise Jordan and that he had been under investigation for some time. Prince Hamza said in a voice recording released by Jordan's opposition on Monday that he would not comply after being barred from any activity and told to keep quiet. While not considered a direct threat to the king, Hamza in recent weeks visited tribal gatherings where the king and his government have been criticised more openly. Saudi Arabia was among the countries to issue statements of support to King Abdullah, and on Monday Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan travelled to Amman to meet his Jordanian counterpart Ayman Safadi, the Jordanian foreign ministry said. "King Salman reaffirmed the kingdom's support to all measures to protect Jordan and its interests," Saudi state TV reported. King Abdullah had expressed "appreciation for the kingdom's continuous support to Jordan," it said. (With inputs from agencies)

Jordan bans media coverage of royal rift, labels it a family affair

Spanish King Felipe VI of Spain has renounced the wealth of his father King Emerit Juan Carlos I.

He has also distanced himself from his father&nbsp;over the alleged financial irregularities involving the former monarch.&nbsp;

The announcement came after reports earlier this month that the former monarch Juan Carlos had received 100 million dollars from Saudi Arabia’s late King Abdullah in 2008 through an offshore account.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-in-last-chance-bid-to-avoid-fresh-elections-249587">Spain in last-chance bid to avoid fresh elections</a>

A later report stated that 52-year-old King Felipe was also a beneficiary of the fund, which it said had been set up when Juan Carlos was still on the throne.

In the palace statement released Sunday, the reigning king said that in April he had made it clear to a notary that he would accept no money from the foundation in question.

Watch: Art or show? 228,000 dollar to burn down a statue of Spain's king

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Felipe denied any knowledge of the fund in Sunday’s statement.

The royal house said in a statement that in addition to renouncing his inheritance, Felipe is stripping Juan Carlos of his annual stipend.&nbsp;

The statement said King Felipe was renouncing any assets, shares or investments that might be either illegal or compromise the royal family's integrity.

According to the national media reports say Juan Carlos has until now received an annual allowance from the state of more than 194,000 euros.

Juan Carlos, 82, became king in November 1975 and reigned until his abdication in June 2014.

Spanish King Felipe VI of Spain has renounced the wealth of his father King Emerit Juan Carlos I. He has also distanced himself from his father over the alleged financial irregularities involving the former monarch.

Spanish King Felipe VI of Spain has renounced the wealth of his father King Emerit Juan Carlos I. He has also distanced himself from his father over the alleged financial irregularities involving the former monarch. The announcement came after reports earlier this month that the former monarch Juan Carlos had received 100 million dollars from Saudi Arabia’s late King Abdullah in 2008 through an offshore account. Also read: Spain in last-chance bid to avoid fresh elections A later report stated that 52-year-old King Felipe was also a beneficiary of the fund, which it said had been set up when Juan Carlos was still on the throne. In the palace statement released Sunday, the reigning king said that in April he had made it clear to a notary that he would accept no money from the foundation in question. Watch: Art or show? 228,000 dollar to burn down a statue of Spain's king Felipe denied any knowledge of the fund in Sunday’s statement. The royal house said in a statement that in addition to renouncing his inheritance, Felipe is stripping Juan Carlos of his annual stipend. The statement said King Felipe was renouncing any assets, shares or investments that might be either illegal or compromise the royal family's integrity. According to the national media reports say Juan Carlos has until now received an annual allowance from the state of more than 194,000 euros. Juan Carlos, 82, became king in November 1975 and reigned until his abdication in June 2014.

Spanish King renounces inheritance and distances himself from father amid scandal

The estranged wife of the ruler of Dubai has applied for a forced marriage protection order, a London court heard Tuesday.

Princess Haya, 45, a wife of 70-year-old United Arab Emirates Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, has applied for the order, as well as wardship of their children and for a non-molestation order relating to herself, the High Court heard.

The details of the Forced Marriage Protection Order sought by the princess are not known, Britain's domestic Press Association news agency reported.

The couple is locked in a legal battle over their children's welfare, being heard by judge Andrew McFarlane, the president of the family division of the High Court of England and Wales.

The case is being heard at the Royal Courts of Justice complex in London, with a preliminary hearing taking place Tuesday.

The judge allowed the media to report that Princess Haya had made the applications.

The court also heard that Sheikh Mohammed has applied to the High Court for the summary return of the children to Dubai.

Princess Haya is a daughter of the late King Hussein of Jordan and a half-sister of King Abdullah II of Jordan.

The orders can be used to help someone who is being forced into marriage or is already in a forced marriage.

They can be applied for by the person to be protected by the order, or for someone else by a relevant third party or another person with the court's permission to do so.

"Force can include physical force, as well as being pressurised emotionally, being threatened or being a victim of psychological abuse," according to the legislation on protection orders.

McFarlane rejected a bid by Sheikh Mohammed's lawyers for certain details to be subject to reporting restrictions.

"There is a public interest in the public understanding, in very broad terms, proceedings that are before the court," he said.

McFarlane earlier decided that only accredited journalists with media-based within the jurisdiction of England and Wales were allowed to sit in on the proceedings.

Reporters from media organisations not based in the UK were in attendance but were told they could not hear the proceedings.

Haya arrived at the court accompanied by her lawyer Fiona Shackleton, who represented Prince Charles, the heir to the British throne, in his divorce from Diana, Princess of Wales.

Sheikh Mohammed is being represented by Helen Ward, who acted for Guy Ritchie in his divorce from pop star Madonna and for former Formula One motor racing supremo Bernie Ecclestone in his divorce.

The Dubai ruler was not in court.

A small anti-Sheikh Mohammed demonstration took place outside the courts complex.

The two-day preliminary hearing is set to continue on Wednesday.

The estranged wife of the ruler of Dubai has applied for a forced marriage protection order, a London court heard Tuesday. Princess Haya, 45, a wife of 70-year-old United Arab Emirates Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, has applied for the order, as well as wardship of their children and for a non-molestation order relating to herself, the High Court heard.

The estranged wife of the ruler of Dubai has applied for a forced marriage protection order, a London court heard Tuesday. Princess Haya, 45, a wife of 70-year-old United Arab Emirates Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, has applied for the order, as well as wardship of their children and for a non-molestation order relating to herself, the High Court heard. The details of the Forced Marriage Protection Order sought by the princess are not known, Britain's domestic Press Association news agency reported. The couple is locked in a legal battle over their children's welfare, being heard by judge Andrew McFarlane, the president of the family division of the High Court of England and Wales. The case is being heard at the Royal Courts of Justice complex in London, with a preliminary hearing taking place Tuesday. The judge allowed the media to report that Princess Haya had made the applications. The court also heard that Sheikh Mohammed has applied to the High Court for the summary return of the children to Dubai. Princess Haya is a daughter of the late King Hussein of Jordan and a half-sister of King Abdullah II of Jordan. The orders can be used to help someone who is being forced into marriage or is already in a forced marriage. They can be applied for by the person to be protected by the order, or for someone else by a relevant third party or another person with the court's permission to do so. "Force can include physical force, as well as being pressurised emotionally, being threatened or being a victim of psychological abuse," according to the legislation on protection orders. McFarlane rejected a bid by Sheikh Mohammed's lawyers for certain details to be subject to reporting restrictions. "There is a public interest in the public understanding, in very broad terms, proceedings that are before the court," he said. McFarlane earlier decided that only accredited journalists with media-based within the jurisdiction of England and Wales were allowed to sit in on the proceedings. Reporters from media organisations not based in the UK were in attendance but were told they could not hear the proceedings. Haya arrived at the court accompanied by her lawyer Fiona Shackleton, who represented Prince Charles, the heir to the British throne, in his divorce from Diana, Princess of Wales. Sheikh Mohammed is being represented by Helen Ward, who acted for Guy Ritchie in his divorce from pop star Madonna and for former Formula One motor racing supremo Bernie Ecclestone in his divorce. The Dubai ruler was not in court. A small anti-Sheikh Mohammed demonstration took place outside the courts complex. The two-day preliminary hearing is set to continue on Wednesday.

Dubai ruler's wife Princess Haya applies for forced marriage protection order in UK court

Jordan's King Abdullah was expected on Monday to ask Prime Minister Hani Mulki to resign in a bid to soothe widespread anger over economic policies that have sparked the largest protests in several years, political sources said.

The dismissal of Mulki was demanded in a series of protests against IMF-backed tax increases that have shaken the kingdom. The sources said King Abdullah had ordered Mulki for an audience in his palace later on Monday.

Mulki, a business-friendly politician, was appointed in May 2016 and given the responsibility of reviving a sluggish economy and business sentiment hit by regional turmoil.

Public anger over IMF-driven government policies has grown since a steep general sales tax hike earlier this year and the abolition of bread subsidies, a staple item for the poor.

The increases have caused Mulki's popularity to plummet.

Thousands of Jordanians took to the streets of the capital, Amman, and in main provincial towns on Sunday in an extension of protests that began last Wednesday.

The protests widened on Saturday after Mulki refused to scrap a bill increasing personal and corporate taxes, saying it was up to parliament to decide.

Witnesses said demonstrators who converged near the Cabinet office said they would disband only if the government rescinded the tax bill it sent to parliament last month, which critics say would worsen living standards.

"The government has made us penniless ... they have left us with no more money in our pockets," chanted protesters.

Unions representing tens of thousands of employees in both the public and private sectors have also called for a general strike on Wednesday after their demands for the bill to be scrapped were rejected by the government.

The government says it needs more funds for public services and argues that tax changes reduce social disparities by placing a heavier burden on high earners and leaving lower-paid state workers relatively unscathed

Jordan's economy has struggled to grow in the past few years in the face of chronic deficits as private foreign capital and aid flows have declined.

Politicians and economists say the tough IMF-imposed fiscal consolidation plan has worsened the plight of poorer Jordanian and squeezed the middle class.

Protesters have also slammed politicians for squandering public funds and corruption.

"Our demands are legitimate. No, no to corruption," chanted the demonstrators urging King Abdullah, who is seen as a unifying force, to intervene and crack down on official graft.

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The dismissal of Mulki was demanded in a series of protests against IMF-backed tax increases that have shaken the kingdom

Jordan's King Abdullah was expected on Monday to ask Prime Minister Hani Mulki to resign in a bid to soothe widespread anger over economic policies that have sparked the largest protests in several years, political sources said. The dismissal of Mulki was demanded in a series of protests against IMF-backed tax increases that have shaken the kingdom. The sources said King Abdullah had ordered Mulki for an audience in his palace later on Monday. Mulki, a business-friendly politician, was appointed in May 2016 and given the responsibility of reviving a sluggish economy and business sentiment hit by regional turmoil. Public anger over IMF-driven government policies has grown since a steep general sales tax hike earlier this year and the abolition of bread subsidies, a staple item for the poor. The increases have caused Mulki's popularity to plummet. Thousands of Jordanians took to the streets of the capital, Amman, and in main provincial towns on Sunday in an extension of protests that began last Wednesday. The protests widened on Saturday after Mulki refused to scrap a bill increasing personal and corporate taxes, saying it was up to parliament to decide. Witnesses said demonstrators who converged near the Cabinet office said they would disband only if the government rescinded the tax bill it sent to parliament last month, which critics say would worsen living standards. "The government has made us penniless ... they have left us with no more money in our pockets," chanted protesters. Unions representing tens of thousands of employees in both the public and private sectors have also called for a general strike on Wednesday after their demands for the bill to be scrapped were rejected by the government. The government says it needs more funds for public services and argues that tax changes reduce social disparities by placing a heavier burden on high earners and leaving lower-paid state workers relatively unscathed Jordan's economy has struggled to grow in the past few years in the face of chronic deficits as private foreign capital and aid flows have declined. Politicians and economists say the tough IMF-imposed fiscal consolidation plan has worsened the plight of poorer Jordanian and squeezed the middle class. Protesters have also slammed politicians for squandering public funds and corruption. "Our demands are legitimate. No, no to corruption," chanted the demonstrators urging King Abdullah, who is seen as a unifying force, to intervene and crack down on official graft. ×

Jordan's King Abdullah may ask PM Hani Mulki to resign: Report

King Abdullah was accorded a ceremonial welcome at the Rashtrapati Bhavan where he inspected a guard of honour and met Indian officials.

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King Abdullah II of Jordan receives ceremonial reception at the Rashtrapati Bhawan in Delhi. <a href="https://t.co/6HR0wZcea7">pic.twitter.com/6HR0wZcea7</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/969060518899208192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Jordan&#39;s King Abdullah II will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Hyderabad House.&nbsp;

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Delhi: King Abdullah II of Jordan arrives at Rashtrapati Bhawan, received by President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. <a href="https://t.co/g43n7pKIkA">pic.twitter.com/g43n7pKIkA</a>
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King is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with PM Narendra Modi later in the day.

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King Abdullah II of Jordan paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat in Delhi. <a href="https://t.co/9Jz2hNxB2S">pic.twitter.com/9Jz2hNxB2S</a>
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Earlier on Tuesday, PM Modi tweeted about the bilateral talks on his twitter handle.

&ldquo;Welcomed His Majesty King Abdullah II to Delhi. It&rsquo;s wonderful to meet him again, after my brief halt at Amman earlier this month. His visit to India will further deepen bilateral ties between our nations. I look forward to our talks on Thursday,&rdquo; PM Modi tweeted.

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Welcomed His Majesty King Abdullah II to Delhi. It&rsquo;s wonderful to meet him again, after my brief halt at Amman earlier this month. His visit to India will further deepen bilateral ties between our nations. I look forward to our talks on Thursday. <a href="https://t.co/MUWsd3rxyj">pic.twitter.com/MUWsd3rxyj</a>
&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/968518953063583744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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King Abdullah, accompanied by a large business delegation and officials, is in India on a three-day official visit.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj met King Abdullah, who then visited IIT-Delhi to explore possible tie-ups with technical institutes in Jordan. He also took part in an in a CEO roundtable followed by the India-Jordan Business Forum meeting. In his address to the forum organised by FICCI, King Abdullah asserted that there were &ldquo;lots of opportunities for Indian companies to come and work in Jordan&rdquo;.

King Abdullah, accompanied by a large business delegation and officials, is in India on a three-day official visit.

King Abdullah was accorded a ceremonial welcome at the Rashtrapati Bhavan where he inspected a guard of honour and met Indian officials. King Abdullah II of Jordan receives ceremonial reception at the Rashtrapati Bhawan in Delhi. pic.twitter.com/6HR0wZcea7 — ANI (@ANI) March 1, 2018 × Jordan's King Abdullah II will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Hyderabad House. Delhi: King Abdullah II of Jordan arrives at Rashtrapati Bhawan, received by President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. pic.twitter.com/g43n7pKIkA — ANI (@ANI) March 1, 2018 × King is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with PM Narendra Modi later in the day. King Abdullah II of Jordan paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat in Delhi. pic.twitter.com/9Jz2hNxB2S — ANI (@ANI) March 1, 2018 × Earlier on Tuesday, PM Modi tweeted about the bilateral talks on his twitter handle. “Welcomed His Majesty King Abdullah II to Delhi. It’s wonderful to meet him again, after my brief halt at Amman earlier this month. His visit to India will further deepen bilateral ties between our nations. I look forward to our talks on Thursday,” PM Modi tweeted. Welcomed His Majesty King Abdullah II to Delhi. It’s wonderful to meet him again, after my brief halt at Amman earlier this month. His visit to India will further deepen bilateral ties between our nations. I look forward to our talks on Thursday. pic.twitter.com/MUWsd3rxyj — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 27, 2018 × King Abdullah, accompanied by a large business delegation and officials, is in India on a three-day official visit. On Wednesday, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj met King Abdullah, who then visited IIT-Delhi to explore possible tie-ups with technical institutes in Jordan. He also took part in an in a CEO roundtable followed by the India-Jordan Business Forum meeting. In his address to the forum organised by FICCI, King Abdullah asserted that there were “lots of opportunities for Indian companies to come and work in Jordan”.

Jordan's King Abdullah II gets ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan

Jordan`s King Abdullah expressed concern on Sunday over a decision by Washington to recognise Jerusalem as Israel`s capital, saying East Jerusalem had to be the capital of a future Palestinian state.&nbsp;

In remarks during talks with U.S. Vice Mike Pence in Amman, the king said the only solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict was a two-state one.

Jordan lost East Jerusalem and the West Bank to Israel during the 1967 Arab-Israeli war.

U.S. endorsement of Israel&rsquo;s claim to Jerusalem as its capital broke with decades of U.S. policy that the city&rsquo;s status must be decided in negotiations with the Palestinians, who want East Jerusalem as the capital of their future state.

King Abdullah said the U.S. move would fuel radicalism and inflame Muslim and Christian tensions.

&quot;For us, Jerusalem is key to Muslims and Christians, as it is to Jews. It is key to peace in the region and key to enabling Muslims to effectively fight some of our root causes of radicalisation,&quot; he said.

King Abdullah said the U.S. move would fuel radicalism and inflame Muslim and Christian tensions.

Jordan`s King Abdullah expressed concern on Sunday over a decision by Washington to recognise Jerusalem as Israel`s capital, saying East Jerusalem had to be the capital of a future Palestinian state. In remarks during talks with U.S. Vice Mike Pence in Amman, the king said the only solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict was a two-state one. Jordan lost East Jerusalem and the West Bank to Israel during the 1967 Arab-Israeli war. U.S. endorsement of Israel’s claim to Jerusalem as its capital broke with decades of U.S. policy that the city’s status must be decided in negotiations with the Palestinians, who want East Jerusalem as the capital of their future state. King Abdullah said the U.S. move would fuel radicalism and inflame Muslim and Christian tensions. "For us, Jerusalem is key to Muslims and Christians, as it is to Jews. It is key to peace in the region and key to enabling Muslims to effectively fight some of our root causes of radicalisation," he said.

Jordan's king says East Jerusalem must be capital of Palestinian state

Senior Saudi Prince Miteb bin Abdullah, once seen as a leading contender to the throne, was freed after reaching an &quot;acceptable settlement agreement&quot; with authorities paying more than $1 billion, a Saudi official said on Wednesday.

Miteb, 65, son of the late King Abdullah and former head of the elite National Guard, was among dozens of royal family members, ministers and senior officials who were rounded up in a graft inquiry partly aimed at strengthening the power of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

The official, who is involved in the anti-corruption campaign, said Miteb was released on Tuesday after reaching &quot;an acceptable settlement agreement&quot;. The amount of the settlement was not disclosed but the official said it is believed to be the equivalent of more than $1 billion.

&quot;It is understood that the settlement included admitting corruption involving known cases,&quot; the official said.

According to a Saudi official, Prince Miteb was accused of embezzlement, hiring ghost employees and awarding contracts to his own firms including a $10 billion deal for walkie talkies and bulletproof military gear worth billions of Saudi riyals.

The allegations against the others included kickbacks, inflating government contracts, extortion and bribery.

The claims could not be independently verified.

Saudi authorities had been working on striking agreements with some of those in detention, asking them to hand over assets and cash in return for their freedom.

News of the purge emerged on Nov 4 soon after King Salman decreed the creation of an anti-corruption committee led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, his 32-year-old favourite son, also known as MbS, who has amassed power since his meteoric rise three years ago.

The new body was given broad powers to investigate cases, issue arrest warrants and travel restrictions, and seize assets.

In an interview with the New York Times published last week, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, was quoted as saying that the vast majority of about 200 businessmen and officials implicated in the crackdown were agreeing to settlements under which they would hand assets over to the government.

Apart from Miteb, the Saudi official said that at least three other people allegedly involved in corruption cases have also finalized settlement agreements.

He said the Public Prosecutor had also decided to release a number of individuals and to prosecute at least 5 individuals. The official gave no details on their identities.

Detailed charges not revealed

The authorities have not revealed detailed charges against any of the detainees. It was also unclear if Miteb was able to move freely or whether he would be put under house arrest.

Officials from Miteb&#39;s office could not immediately be reached for a comment about his release. An acquaintance of the family has said earlier on his twitter account that Miteb was receiving brothers and sons at his palace in Riyadh.

The arrest of royals and top business elite capped a frenetic almost three years of growing power by MbS. It was seen as another pre-emptive step by the crown prince to remove powerful figures as he exerts control over the world&rsquo;s leading oil exporter.

The roundup recalled the meticulously planned palace coup in June through which MbS ousted his elder cousin, Mohammed bin Nayef, as heir to the throne, interior minister and veteran head of the kingdom&#39;s formidable security apparatus.

In September, he rounded up and jailed religious and intellectual opponents.

This month&rsquo;s purge was another carefully planned swoop on 11 princes, four serving ministers, dozens of former ministers and officials, and tycoons including the kingdom&rsquo;s best-known businessman, Prince Alwaleeed bin Talal, who owns high-profile stakes in global companies like Citigroup and Twitter.

They were held at the five-star Ritz-Carlton hotel in Riyadh.

Yet many observers believe the primary target of the purge was Prince Miteb, overlord of Saudi Arabia&rsquo;s 100,000-strong National Guard, as he represented the last great power centre left standing after the toppling of former Crown Prince Mohammed bin Nayef.

By launching a war on corruption MbS combined a popular cause with the elimination of perhaps the last obstacles between him and the throne.

As the Sandhurst-trained preferred son of the late King Abdullah, Miteb was once thought to be a leading contender to the throne.

Before he was sacked by a royal decree on Nov. 4, he headed the Saudi National Guard, a pivotal power base rooted in the kingdom&rsquo;s tribes that was run by his father for five decades.

He was also the last remaining member of Abdullah&#39;s Shammar branch of the family to retain a key position at the top of the Saudi power structure, after brothers Mishaal and Turki were relieved of their posts as governors in 2015.

Miteb bin Abdullah was once seen as a leading contender to the throne

Senior Saudi Prince Miteb bin Abdullah, once seen as a leading contender to the throne, was freed after reaching an "acceptable settlement agreement" with authorities paying more than $1 billion, a Saudi official said on Wednesday. Miteb, 65, son of the late King Abdullah and former head of the elite National Guard, was among dozens of royal family members, ministers and senior officials who were rounded up in a graft inquiry partly aimed at strengthening the power of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The official, who is involved in the anti-corruption campaign, said Miteb was released on Tuesday after reaching "an acceptable settlement agreement". The amount of the settlement was not disclosed but the official said it is believed to be the equivalent of more than $1 billion. "It is understood that the settlement included admitting corruption involving known cases," the official said. According to a Saudi official, Prince Miteb was accused of embezzlement, hiring ghost employees and awarding contracts to his own firms including a $10 billion deal for walkie talkies and bulletproof military gear worth billions of Saudi riyals. The allegations against the others included kickbacks, inflating government contracts, extortion and bribery. The claims could not be independently verified. Saudi authorities had been working on striking agreements with some of those in detention, asking them to hand over assets and cash in return for their freedom. News of the purge emerged on Nov 4 soon after King Salman decreed the creation of an anti-corruption committee led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, his 32-year-old favourite son, also known as MbS, who has amassed power since his meteoric rise three years ago. The new body was given broad powers to investigate cases, issue arrest warrants and travel restrictions, and seize assets. In an interview with the New York Times published last week, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, was quoted as saying that the vast majority of about 200 businessmen and officials implicated in the crackdown were agreeing to settlements under which they would hand assets over to the government. Apart from Miteb, the Saudi official said that at least three other people allegedly involved in corruption cases have also finalized settlement agreements. He said the Public Prosecutor had also decided to release a number of individuals and to prosecute at least 5 individuals. The official gave no details on their identities. Detailed charges not revealed The authorities have not revealed detailed charges against any of the detainees. It was also unclear if Miteb was able to move freely or whether he would be put under house arrest. Officials from Miteb's office could not immediately be reached for a comment about his release. An acquaintance of the family has said earlier on his twitter account that Miteb was receiving brothers and sons at his palace in Riyadh. The arrest of royals and top business elite capped a frenetic almost three years of growing power by MbS. It was seen as another pre-emptive step by the crown prince to remove powerful figures as he exerts control over the world’s leading oil exporter. The roundup recalled the meticulously planned palace coup in June through which MbS ousted his elder cousin, Mohammed bin Nayef, as heir to the throne, interior minister and veteran head of the kingdom's formidable security apparatus. In September, he rounded up and jailed religious and intellectual opponents. This month’s purge was another carefully planned swoop on 11 princes, four serving ministers, dozens of former ministers and officials, and tycoons including the kingdom’s best-known businessman, Prince Alwaleeed bin Talal, who owns high-profile stakes in global companies like Citigroup and Twitter. They were held at the five-star Ritz-Carlton hotel in Riyadh. Yet many observers believe the primary target of the purge was Prince Miteb, overlord of Saudi Arabia’s 100,000-strong National Guard, as he represented the last great power centre left standing after the toppling of former Crown Prince Mohammed bin Nayef. By launching a war on corruption MbS combined a popular cause with the elimination of perhaps the last obstacles between him and the throne. As the Sandhurst-trained preferred son of the late King Abdullah, Miteb was once thought to be a leading contender to the throne. Before he was sacked by a royal decree on Nov. 4, he headed the Saudi National Guard, a pivotal power base rooted in the kingdom’s tribes that was run by his father for five decades. He was also the last remaining member of Abdullah's Shammar branch of the family to retain a key position at the top of the Saudi power structure, after brothers Mishaal and Turki were relieved of their posts as governors in 2015.

Senior Saudi prince freed in $1 billion settlement agreement: Official

Jordan could witness the return of its moderate Islamist opposition from Tuesday&#39;s parliamentary election. 
 
The Islamist leaders have regained influence after surviving government attempts to ban it as a part of a wider crackdown on political Islam.&nbsp; 
 
The electoral commission extended voting by an hour in major cities including Amman as great crowds turned up for the voting.&nbsp; 
 
The Islamic Action Front, the political arm of Jordan&#39;s Muslim Brotherhood could win up to a fifth of the seats in the Parliament.&nbsp; 
 
The IAF is expected to clinch about 20 seats in the 130-member Parliament, which would make it the largest opposition force. 
 
The group attracted a broader base after ditching its &quot;Islam is the Solution&quot; slogan and joining with Christians to create a civic grouping - The National Coalition for Reform. 
 
&quot;I chose the party that wants to represent me,&quot; said a 19-year-old student, Baraa Zeidan. &quot;I hope they will step up and solve our problems with transport, employment and the education system.&quot; 
 
Voting was monitored by 14,000 local observers and 676 from abroad, including 66 from the European Union. 
 
&quot;We in Jordan are proud of the fact that we have recourse to the ballot box and dialogue through elections at a time when you hear only the sound of gunfire in several countries in the region,&quot; said government spokesman Mohammad al-Momani. 
 
But the low turnout confirmed the anticipated apathy from many voters with minimal confidence in a pro-government Parliament. 
 
The opposition complained of &quot;several&quot; irregularities, including vote-buying. The commission assured that it was investigating the allegations. 
 
The election represents a modest step in the democratisation process launched by King Abdullah. 
 
He seeks to insulate Jordan from the spillover of wars in Syria and Iraq and the burden of hosting thousands of refugees.&nbsp; 
 
(WION with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Jordan's opposition Islamists could re-emerge as the major parliamentary force with up to a fifth of the seats in Parliament

Jordan could witness the return of its moderate Islamist opposition from Tuesday's parliamentary election. The Islamist leaders have regained influence after surviving government attempts to ban it as a part of a wider crackdown on political Islam. The electoral commission extended voting by an hour in major cities including Amman as great crowds turned up for the voting. The Islamic Action Front, the political arm of Jordan's Muslim Brotherhood could win up to a fifth of the seats in the Parliament. The IAF is expected to clinch about 20 seats in the 130-member Parliament, which would make it the largest opposition force. The group attracted a broader base after ditching its "Islam is the Solution" slogan and joining with Christians to create a civic grouping - The National Coalition for Reform. "I chose the party that wants to represent me," said a 19-year-old student, Baraa Zeidan. "I hope they will step up and solve our problems with transport, employment and the education system." Voting was monitored by 14,000 local observers and 676 from abroad, including 66 from the European Union. "We in Jordan are proud of the fact that we have recourse to the ballot box and dialogue through elections at a time when you hear only the sound of gunfire in several countries in the region," said government spokesman Mohammad al-Momani. But the low turnout confirmed the anticipated apathy from many voters with minimal confidence in a pro-government Parliament. The opposition complained of "several" irregularities, including vote-buying. The commission assured that it was investigating the allegations. The election represents a modest step in the democratisation process launched by King Abdullah. He seeks to insulate Jordan from the spillover of wars in Syria and Iraq and the burden of hosting thousands of refugees. (WION with inputs from agencies)

Jordan parliamentary vote: Islamist opposition set to make comeback

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