AGP Executive Report

Regional Security: Warning sirens sounded across Jordan after reports of Iranian missile launches toward Israel, with the government saying Jordan’s airspace was breached and reiterating it “will not allow” the kingdom to be used as a battleground; the Public Security Directorate also reissued safety guidance on unidentified objects and how to respond during siren alerts. Court & Crime: Jordan’s State Security Court sentenced a man to death for killing three anti-narcotics officers during a March raid in Amman, with the ruling set for review by the Court of Cassation. Sports & Tech: The Jordan Football Association signed a partnership with Google naming Google Gemini as the national team’s AI technical sponsor, aiming to boost fan engagement ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Education: Qatar Foundation launched the Rasekh accreditation framework to align international education with Arabic language and local cultural context, rolling out an initial cohort of schools. Agriculture: Jordan’s National Agricultural Research Center reported promising wheat harvest results, including high-yield research varieties supporting food security. Public Life: An official holiday was announced for June 16 to mark Hijri New Year.

Aviation & Jobs: Joramco Academy is now accepting applications for its Aircraft Maintenance programme, a four-year hybrid track starting in October with two years of theory followed by two years of hands-on training, aiming to prepare graduates for EASA and CARC licensing and potential first employment at Joramco. Markets: The Amman Stock Exchange saw JOD 18.2 million in trading volume, while the general index slipped 0.57% to 4,007 points. Regional Diplomacy: Prime Minister Jafar Hassan met Iraqi Parliament Speaker Haibat Al Halbousi, reaffirming strong Amman-Baghdad ties and pushing cooperation in energy, electricity, trade and investment. Royal Engagement: King Abdullah also received Halbousi, urging efforts to consolidate the US-Iran ceasefire and warning against attempts to change realities in Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza. Security & Condemnations: Jordan condemned an Israeli strike that killed Lebanese Army personnel, calling it a breach of international law and urging full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701. Tourism Confidence: Jordan’s Ministry of Tourism welcomed the UK’s updated travel advisory, saying it boosts confidence in Jordan as a safe destination. Humanitarian Aid: Qatar Red Crescent Society’s Eid Al-Adha Sacrifice campaign reached 247,344 beneficiaries across Qatar and 13 countries, including Jordan and Palestine/Gaza. World Cup Build-up: Prince Ali said Jordan’s World Cup qualification reflects more than two decades of youth development, with Mousa Tamari highlighted as a model of the system’s success.

Gulf Tensions: Jordan condemned fresh Iranian missile and drone attacks on Bahrain and Kuwait, calling them a “flagrant” violation of sovereignty and a dangerous escalation that threatens regional stability. Lebanon Front: Jordan also condemned an Israeli strike on a Lebanese Army patrol, reiterating support for Lebanon’s sovereignty and the full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701. Tourism Boost: The UK updated its travel advisory, reclassifying most of Jordan as safe; Jordan’s Tourism Ministry said it should boost European confidence and help the sector recover. Jerash Festival Prep: Culture Minister Mustafa Rawashdeh inspected preparations for the 40th Jerash Festival, urging top-standard logistics and stronger media coverage ahead of the July launch. World Cup Momentum: JFA President Prince Ali said Jordan’s 2026 World Cup qualification is the result of more than two decades of youth development, highlighting Mousa Tamari as a model. Trade & Industry: Jordan’s industrial exports rose 2.6% in Q1 2026 to JD2.027bn, while Amman Chamber of Commerce certificates of origin hit JD624m in five months.

World Cup Spotlight: Jordan’s Mousa Al Tamari is set to chase a World Cup dream as the national team prepares for its first finals appearance, with Prince Ali bin Al Hussein telling CNN Jordan will play “for the enjoyment of the game” despite injuries. Foreign Affairs: Jordan condemned Iranian attacks on Bahrain and Kuwait as a “flagrant” breach of sovereignty and a dangerous escalation, reaffirming solidarity with both Gulf states. Tourism Boost: Jordan’s Tourism Ministry welcomed the UK’s updated travel advisory, saying most of the country is now classified as safe and expected to lift confidence for European visitors. Business & Trade: The Amman Chamber of Commerce reported exports routed through certificates of origin hit 624 million dinars in the first five months of 2026, up 24.1% year-on-year. Arts & Culture: Palestinian-Jordanian artist Zeyne and Greek-Sudanese star Marina Satti released the collaborative single “A’ti,” exploring love, distance and emotional imbalance. Sports Economy: TicketData says resale prices for Arab teams vary widely, with Jordan averaging about $456 for matches.

Labour Policy: Jordan will suspend recruitment of non-Jordanians across most sectors starting June 1, with key exceptions including domestic workers, garment and textile, and roles tied to development zones, QIZs and free zones, as unemployment falls to 16% in Q1 2026. Regional Diplomacy: Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi and Saudi counterpart Prince Faisal bin Farhan condemned “treacherous Iranian attacks” on Bahrain and Kuwait and urged de-escalation, while also discussing deeper Jordan-Saudi cooperation. Judicial Cooperation: Saudi Arabia’s ambassador visited the Jordan Judicial Institute, praising its training role for judges and its regional standing. Finance Watch: The Central Bank of Jordan issued JD100m in treasury bonds for 2026, with a June 7, 2036 maturity. Food Security: Jordan’s food self-sufficiency rose to 61.4% in 2024, up from 57.3% in 2020, though wheat and fish remain heavily import-dependent. World Cup Build-Up: Jordan’s historic 2026 World Cup debut continues to draw attention as preparations face injuries to key players.

Air Travel Disruption: British Airways says Middle East airspace uncertainty has forced it to cancel/suspend flights to Dubai, Amman, Bahrain, Doha, Abu Dhabi, Tel Aviv and Riyadh, with Dubai and three other routes pushed to restart only after summer—targeting Oct. 25. Labour Market Policy: Jordan’s Labour Ministry has suspended recruitment of non-Jordanians across most sectors from June 1, with exemptions for domestic work, garment/textiles, and some high-skilled roles. Food Security: Jordan’s food self-sufficiency rose to 61.4% in 2024 (up from 57.3% in 2020), driven by surpluses in vegetables and some livestock, while wheat and seafood remain heavily import-dependent. Regional Diplomacy: Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi urged cementing Lebanon’s ceasefire and backing state control of weapons, while also coordinating with Saudi Arabia and condemning attacks on Bahrain and Kuwait. World Cup Fever: Jordan’s historic 2026 World Cup run stays in the spotlight, with Jordan Ahli Bank launching the “Falak Al Fouz” song celebrating Al Nashama’s qualification. Holy Sites: Jordan and partners continue to push back on changes to Jerusalem’s Al-Aqsa status quo amid renewed international concern.

Green Investment Push: ABJ CEO Dr Maher Al Mahrouq urged Qatari investors to back Jordan’s green economy push, pointing to renewable energy, sustainable transport, circular economy and low-emission infrastructure as key pillars of the 2023-2033 modernization vision. Lebanon Ceasefire & UNIFIL: Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi called for cementing Lebanon’s ceasefire and keeping weapons with state authorities, while Jordan also condemned an attack on a UNIFIL position that killed a Serbian peacekeeper and injured two others. Security Ties with Kuwait & Saudi: Kuwait and Jordan reviewed regional security and defense cooperation in high-level meetings, and Jordan’s Safadi also spoke with Saudi FM Prince Faisal bin Farhan, condemning Iranian attacks on Bahrain and Kuwait. Labour Market Move: The Labour Ministry suspended recruitment of non-Jordanians across most sectors from June 1, with exemptions for areas like domestic work, textiles, and certain high-skilled roles. Food Security Update: Jordan’s food self-sufficiency rose to 61.4% in 2024, up from 57.3% in 2020, driven by surpluses in vegetables, milk and eggs, while wheat and other staples still rely heavily on imports. Air Travel Disruption: British Airways extended flight cancellations to Amman and other Middle East destinations until at least October 25 due to ongoing regional turmoil. ASE Connectivity: BHM Capital activated access to Amman Stock Exchange trading via ADX’s Tabadul platform, boosting cross-border investment links. Humanitarian Aid to Lebanon: JHCO sent a new 28-truck aid convoy to Lebanon with WFP support, bringing Jordan’s total to 130 trucks.

World Cup Watch: Jordan’s historic 2026 World Cup debut is set, with Al Nashama opening against Austria on June 17 and facing Algeria and Argentina next, while Prime Minister Jafar Hassan orders public institutions to start at 10:00am on match days to help fans catch the early kick-offs. Humanitarian Relief: JHCO dispatched a sixth aid convoy to Lebanon—28 trucks carrying food—bringing Jordan’s total relief deliveries to 130 trucks, coordinated with WFP, the Armed Forces and the Foreign Ministry. Regional Diplomacy: Jordan condemned Iran’s attacks on Bahrain and Kuwait, reiterating solidarity with both states after separate calls involving Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi. Security & Labour: The Ministry of Labour suspended recruitment of non-Jordanian workers across most sectors, with limited exceptions, while Public Security reported arrests of 18 drug dealers and seizure of illicit drugs. Public Safety Tech: Globitel announced a nationwide Cell Broadcast Early Warning System to send official, geo-targeted emergency alerts to mobile phones within seconds. Sports Schedule: FIBA confirmed venues and tip-off times for the Asian Qualifiers’ third window, with Iran and Syria starting in Amman.

West Bank Settlements: Jordan condemned Israel’s approval of 2,126 new settler units in the occupied West Bank, calling it a blatant breach of international law and a setback to the two-state solution. Regional Security: Deputy PM and FM Ayman Safadi condemned Iran’s attacks on Bahrain and Kuwait in separate calls, stressing Jordan’s solidarity and condolences after strikes that hit civilian facilities including Kuwait International Airport. World Cup Logistics: With Jordan’s World Cup debut days away, the prime minister ordered public institutions to start at 10:00am on match days (June 17, 23 and 28) to help fans follow Al Nashama’s early kick-offs. Anti-Drug Operations: Jordan’s Anti-Narcotics Department reported 18 arrests in major campaigns, including a “highly dangerous” dealer, and seized drugs in multiple governorates. Aviation & Tourism: Aqaba’s special economic zone says an agreement with a foreign operator for King Hussein International Airport is imminent, alongside new Royal Jordanian routes via Abu Dhabi and Riyadh. Smart Mobility: Greater Amman’s investment arm launched a smart parking project with a unified digital platform, targeting about 5,600 spaces by 2031. Business & Trade: Jordan’s pharmaceutical exports rose 17.6% in Q1 2026 to JD147m, while vehicle clearance at Zarqa Free Zone for the domestic market fell 65.3% in the first five months, linked to 2025 import restrictions.

Al-Aqsa Custodianship & Holy Sites: Foreign ministers of Jordan and other Arab-Islamic states condemned extremist Israeli settlers’ incursions into Al-Aqsa under Israeli protection, including reports of Israeli flag-raising, warning the moves violate international law and threaten the historical status quo and Hashemite custodianship. Regional Security & Aviation Disruption: Iran’s missile and drone attacks on Bahrain and Kuwait triggered major flight disruptions across the Gulf; Kuwait International Airport faced heavy disruption after strikes on Terminal 1, while British Airways extended Middle East flight suspensions through late October and kept Amman on hold. Jordan Economy & Industry: Jordan’s pharmaceutical exports rose 17.6% in Q1 2026 to JD147m, and the government highlighted projects aimed at sustainable growth. Transport & Labour: GAM launched a smart parking project via public-private partnership, while Labor Watch urged changes to protect app-based drivers, saying about 90,000 work without social security. Aviation Numbers: CARC reported 29,096 aircraft movements in Jordanian airports in the first five months of 2026.

Al-Aqsa Custodianship: Foreign ministers from Jordan and eight Muslim states condemned “continued incursions” by extremist Israeli settlers into Al-Aqsa Mosque under Israeli protection, including the raising of the Israeli flag, calling it a violation of international law and urging an immediate halt while stressing the Hashemite custodianship role. Regional Air Disruptions: After Iran attack claims, parts of the Gulf saw airspace closures and flights diverted or cancelled; Bahrain temporarily closed airspace and airlines extended suspensions, with Jordan-linked traffic affected. Jordan Aviation Activity: Jordan’s Civil Aviation Regulatory Commission said airports handled about 29,000 flights in 2026 so far, citing strong growth and readiness for more European low-cost services. World Cup Focus: Jordan named its historic 2026 World Cup squad, led by Mousa Al-Tamari, as the team begins a training camp in San Diego ahead of friendlies. Humanitarian Pressure: WFP suspended food aid for 135,000 Syrian refugees in Jordan’s host communities due to a funding shortfall, while aid in camps continues at a reduced level. Local Infrastructure: Maintenance work is set to start on damaged sections of Queen Alia International Airport Road, funded by a Kuwait Fund loan.

World Cup Spotlight: Jordan named its full 26-player squad for its first-ever FIFA World Cup appearance, with Mousa Al-Tamari valued at €10m and the team’s total market value put at about €19.475m; the squad arrived in San Diego for a camp until June 10 ahead of a final friendly vs Colombia on June 9. Transport & Travel: Low-cost airlines are set to resume flights to Jordan on July 1, while British Airways has pushed back its Dubai route resumption to October 25, keeping Dubai/Tel Aviv/Bahrain/Amman suspended amid ongoing regional disruption. Industry & Jobs: PM Jafar Hassan inaugurated six new Chinese-owned Jinsheng International factories in Karak’s Qatraneh area, aiming to expand an integrated industrial hub and create about 700 jobs, and also announced incentives for Maan’s Rawda Industrial Area tied to the Aqaba-Maan land port plan. Economy & Prices: Jordan’s wholesale price index rose 1.13% in Q1 2026 year-on-year, with textiles and fuel/metals/construction among the biggest movers. Humanitarian Pressure: WFP suspended food aid for 135,000 Syrian refugees in Jordan’s host communities due to a funding shortfall, while JHCO reported Eid Al Adha assistance reaching thousands in Jordan and Gaza. Water & Enforcement: WAJ and partners detected illegal pipeline violations in Jizah and Ruseifa, including a seized drilling rig and illegal extensions to supply unauthorized homes. Markets Integration: Jordan and the UAE activated an electronic trading link via Tabadul, linking Amman and Abu Dhabi exchanges to broaden investor access and liquidity.

Tabadul Financial Link: Jordan and the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange have activated an electronic trading connection via the Tabadul platform, letting investors trade across both markets through licensed brokers and aiming to boost liquidity and market efficiency. World Cup Work Hours: Labour Minister Khaled Bakkar urged private employers to mirror a Prime Ministry decision to start official work at 10am on World Cup final match days, so fans can watch Jordan’s historic campaign. Border Security Upgrade: Jordan announced the operationalization of advanced military facilities to strengthen land border security, using 24/7 detection and rapid-response capabilities to curb smuggling and infiltration. Lebanon Travel Hit: Flights to and from Beirut were cancelled after Israel signalled it may resume strikes, raising fresh regional security and travel concerns. Exports Up: Industry Minister Yarub Qudah said Jordan’s exports rose 1.6% in Q1 2026 to JD 2.129 billion, led by garments, potash and pharmaceuticals, with gains to Syria, China and the EU. Local Transport: A new Irbid–Sweileh–Medical City bus route starts with services from 6:15am to 6:00pm and a JD 1.65 fare. Public Safety: A shooting in Amman’s Ashrafieh left three injured; the gunman’s son was arrested after the incident, and investigations continue.

Regional Security: Jordan condemned “repeated” Iranian attacks on Kuwait, calling them a breach of international law, and reaffirmed full solidarity with the Gulf state as air defences intercepted missiles and drones. Holy Sites: Jordan also denounced Israeli settlers’ storming of Al-Aqsa courtyards, including flag-raising under police protection, warning against any attempt to change the site’s historical and legal status quo. Lebanon Crisis: As Israel expanded operations in southern Lebanon, Jordan condemned the aggression and urged an end to attacks and full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701, while WFP warned Lebanon’s displacement and food insecurity are worsening. Economy & Jobs: Jordan’s unemployment fell to 16.1% in Q1 2026, and the Amman Stock Exchange recorded JD26.4m trading volume. Trade & Investment: Exports rose 1.6% in Q1 2026 to JD2.129b, and Jordan and Abu Dhabi launched an electronic trading link via Tabadul to boost regional market integration. Health & Services: Zarqa Government Hospital performed Jordan’s first open-heart surgery in the governorate, and the Reayah cancer programme marked a major shift in access to treatment. Industry Push: PM Jafar Hassan ordered expanded incentives for the al-Rawdah Industrial Zone and inaugurated new Jinsheng factories in Karak, targeting more jobs and investment. Royal & Society: Crown Prince Hussein and Princess Rajwa marked their third wedding anniversary with a new portrait.

Al-Aqsa Tensions: Jordan’s Foreign Ministry condemned Israeli settlers’ storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, denouncing flag-raising and chanting under police protection as a violation of international law and a bid to change the site’s historical status. Jobs & Economy: Jordan’s unemployment fell to 16.1% in Q1 2026, while the Prime Minister ordered expanded incentives for the al-Rawdah Industrial Zone and pushed to speed up the Aqaba–Ma’an Dry Port master plan. Industrial Push: Hassan inaugurated six Jinsheng factories in Karak’s Qatrana area, aiming to create 700 jobs and move the complex toward development-zone status. Tourism & Travel: Low-cost flights to Jordan are set to resume July 1, expected to lift European tourist arrivals after regional disruptions. Public Health: Tobacco use among Jordanians aged 15+ tops 50%, with low-income smokers hit hardest. Eid Services in Amman: GAM and traffic officials reported clean-up, sanitisation, and 21,656 traffic reports handled during Eid al-Adha. Sports: Jordan’s national team plays Switzerland in a key World Cup warm-up ahead of its first-ever FIFA appearance.

Al-Aqsa Stand-off: Jordan’s Foreign Ministry condemned Israeli extremists for storming Al-Aqsa/Al-Haram Al-Sharif, including raising Israeli flags and chanting inside the courtyards under occupation police protection, calling it a clear breach of international law and warning of consequences. Industrial Push: PM Jafar Hassan ordered expanded incentives for the al-Rawdah Industrial Zone in Ma’an (electricity, land and employment support) until natural gas reaches the area, and urged faster work on the Aqaba–Ma’an Dry Port master plan and studies ahead of year-end. Jobs and Investment: Hassan inaugurated six Jinsheng factories in Karak’s Qatrana area, aiming to anchor an integrated industrial complex and create about 700 jobs, with steps underway to convert it into a development zone. Health Alert: A new report marks World No Tobacco Day, saying tobacco use among Jordanians aged 15+ exceeds 50%, with low-income smokers hit hardest. Eid Logistics in Amman: GAM completed waste removal from sacrificial sale sites and will sanitize approved locations twice daily for two weeks after Eid. Sports & Travel: Jordan Post issued commemorative stamps for the national team’s 2026 World Cup qualification; Jordan’s “Nashama” face Switzerland in a key World Cup warm-up, while low-cost flights to Jordan are set to resume July 1.