Full Breakdown
Jordanian Parliament Votes to Remove Mentions of Israel from Debate Minutes
2/24/2026, 3:22:15 AM
Unanimous Decision by Jordanian Parliament
On a recent Monday, the Jordanian Parliament voted unanimously to remove references to "Israel" from the minutes of a debate concerning statements made by U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee. The debate focused on proposed reforms by the Israeli Security Cabinet regarding the administration of the West Bank. The motion to eliminate mentions of Israel was introduced by MP Hail Ayash, who asserted that the name of the Jewish state "represents an enemy to every Jordanian."
Context of the Debate
Parliament Speaker Mazen al-Qadi criticized Huckabee's remarks, claiming they justified Israel’s control over "Arab lands" and violated international law and the United Nations charter. He described Huckabee's statements as a "blatant provocation" and a "serious breach of state sovereignty." Al-Qadi emphasized that the West Bank and Gaza Strip are Palestinian territories and deemed any claims based on Jewish religious narratives as "unacceptable," arguing that they undermine the prospects for a just, two-state solution.
Reactions from Jordanian Officials
The decision to remove mentions of Israel has drawn attention, particularly given Jordan's peace treaty with Israel, signed 31 years ago. Roi Kais, an Arab affairs correspondent for Israel's KAN News, noted the significance of this action. Saleh al-Armouti, head of the 'Islamic Action Front' parliamentary bloc, supported the decision, calling it an "honor" for the parliament and indicative of a general consensus on national issues.
In addition, MP Ali Khalaileh urged the Jordanian government to summon U.S. Ambassador to Jordan James Holtsnider to address Huckabee's "dangerous statements." Another MP, Abdul Nasser Khasawneh, advocated for a more permanent removal of the "Israeli entity" from official discourse, suggesting that the Jewish state be referred to as the "usurping entity."
Criticism & Opposition
The unanimous vote has sparked discussions about the implications of such a stance in the context of Jordan's diplomatic relations with Israel. Critics argue that this decision could strain the already delicate ties between the two nations and complicate future negotiations regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Verbatim Quotes
- “These statements are a blatant provocation and a serious breach of state sovereignty,” — Mazen al-Qadi, Jordanian Parliament Speaker
- “represents an enemy to every Jordanian.” — Hail Ayash, Jordanian MP
- “reflects a general parliamentary consensus around national issues,” — Saleh al-Armouti, Head of the Islamic Action Front
This parliamentary action highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding Jordan's relationship with Israel and the broader regional dynamics affecting peace efforts in the Middle East.
