The Middle East is currently experiencing a difficult period, especially following the events of October 7, 2023, and the ensuing developments in the conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, as well as the Palestinians in the West Bank.

His Majesty King Abdullah II bin Al Hussein delivered a clear and firm speech at the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, focusing primarily on the regional conflict, Gaza, and its repercussions, particularly the suffering of the Palestinian people due to this war. He also emphasized the importance and central role of the Hashemite custodianship over the Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem.

On the sidelines of the General Assembly meetings, a gathering took place between U.S. President Donald Trump and leaders of Arab and Islamic countries. Subsequently, His Majesty King Abdullah II met with former Jordanian prime ministers at Al-Husseiniya Palace in Amman to discuss the key outcomes of the 80th UN summit and the various meetings during His Majesty’s visit to New York.

His Majesty affirmed Jordan’s constant readiness to protect the kingdom and national security, describing his visit to New York as successful. He highlighted Jordan’s ongoing cooperation with Arab brothers and global partners on a comprehensive plan to end the war in Gaza. A crucial meeting was held with President Trump and leaders of some Arab and Islamic countries concerning Gaza, followed by a joint statement from these leaders and members of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation. The statement addressed the tragic and unbearable situation in Gaza, especially the humanitarian disaster and heavy human losses caused by the war.

The joint statement emphasized the rejection of forced displacement and the necessity to allow the return of Gazans who left the sector. The leaders stressed the urgent need to end the war, achieve an immediate ceasefire, secure the release of all detainees from both sides, and allow sufficient humanitarian aid. These are essential conditions for achieving a just and lasting peace.

The meeting also touched on the Israeli aggression on Qatar and the targeting of Hamas leaders there, which His Majesty described as indicative of terrorism in the region through force.

His Majesty also discussed the current situations in some Arab countries, such as Syria and Lebanon, affirming Jordan’s commitment to supporting their sovereignty and stability. Jordan has played a prominent role in the Syrian file during the rule of Bashar al-Assad and the transitional period under President Ahmed al-Shara. For example, the ‘step-by-step’ meetings held in Amman during Assad’s rule and other Jordan-supported meetings aimed at resolving the Syrian crisis. Recently, Jordan played a significant role in calming tensions between Syrian Arab tribes and the Druze community in Sweida. Additionally, Jordan provided military equipment to the Lebanese army in 2024 to strengthen security and stability in Lebanon.

Finally, the most important issue remains the effort to end the war and suffering in Gaza. Jordan has played a vital role in supporting and aiding the afflicted people in Gaza by sending field hospitals and delivering humanitarian assistance. It is hoped that the meetings, especially the one with Donald Trump on the sidelines of the 80th UN General Assembly with Arab and Islamic leaders, will succeed in achieving the crucial outcomes, particularly the ultimate goal of ending the war in Gaza and establishing security and peace in the conflict-ridden Middle East.