The Arab Army leadership Arabization is one of the historical decisions that solidified the foundation of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and affirmed its full sovereignty.
اضافة اعلان
This bold decision came at a time filled with challenges and difficulties, marking a turning point in modern Jordan's history. It was a brave step taken by a young king, Hussein bin Talal – may God rest his soul – who shouldered the full responsibility at a time when the country faced the dangers of unrest and wars, with storms sweeping through the nation from all directions, and enemies lurking on every side. During this period, the Jordanian military leadership was comprised of British officers, while the Arab Army was made up of the best elements raised in the culture of the Jordanian Arab military.
On March 1, 1956, King Hussein bin Talal, may God rest his soul, made a decisive decision to Arabize the leadership of the Arab Army, dismissing General Glubb and several other British leaders who were in charge of various units of the Jordanian army.
The late King Hussein bin Talal mentioned in his book "My Profession as a King" that the dismissal of General Glubb was "a fully Jordanian matter, as the position of the army commander was operating within the framework of foreign governments' interests, limiting the independence of the Jordanian military decision."
This decision marked a turning point in the history of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. King Hussein knew very well the consequences of this decision, but he was confident in the courage and loyalty of the Arab Army officers, who had long dreamed of an independent leadership for their army, free from foreign influences. This step represented the elevation of Jordanian dignity and restored pride to the Arab Army. As a result of this decision, Rady Anab was promoted to the rank of Major General and appointed Chief of Staff of the Arab Army after the dismissal of General Glubb, becoming the first Jordanian officer to hold this position.
King Hussein, may God rest his soul, delivered a historic speech via the Jordanian radio to announce this decision and explain its motivations, emphasizing that it was a step towards enhancing Jordan's security and sovereignty, and marking the beginning of a new chapter in the independence of the Jordanian army.
Events Leading to the Decision
King Hussein bin Talal assumed his constitutional powers on May 2, 1953, after being proclaimed king on August 11, 1952, when he was just 17 years old. At that time, Jordan had gained independence in 1946 and was in the process of implementing new constitutional structures. However, the Kingdom faced significant challenges on both military and political fronts, especially after the 1948 Arab-Israeli war.
Military Conditions in the Preceding Period
Since independence, the Arab Army had gone through difficult times, participating in the battle of Jerusalem during the 1948 war against the Israeli occupation. The army suffered significant losses defending Jerusalem and the Islamic holy sites. Despite this, the army faced challenges in its structure, as its senior leadership still included British officers. King Hussein had met with several Jordanian officers in London and expressed his desire for Jordanians to lead their army in the future.
Motives Behind the Decision
The key motivations behind the Arab Army leadership Arabization decision can be summarized in several important points:
The Role of Jordanian Officers in the Army: King Hussein aimed to empower Jordanian officers to take over the high command of the Arab Army, believing that this would enhance their confidence and allow the army to operate independently of foreign influence.
Defense Strategy: There was a fundamental disagreement between King Hussein, who advocated for quick and effective steps to confront military threats, and General Glubb, who adopted a more cautious approach, especially regarding Israel.
Steps Taken by King Hussein
On Thursday, March 1, 1956, King Hussein quickly implemented his plan to change the leadership of the Arab Army. Within hours, General Glubb was dismissed, and Major General Rady Anab was appointed Chief of Staff. This unexpected decision was in line with King Hussein’s larger national vision to ensure Jordan’s military independence and rid it of any foreign influence.
Military Impact of the Decision
The decision had significant political and military ramifications:
Completion of Military and Sovereign Independence: Arabizing the army’s leadership was an important step toward completing Jordan's full independence after its declaration of independence in 1946. This decision sparked a new era of military transformation, including more independent and organized training for the army.
Abolishing the British Treaty: Shortly after the Arabization of the army, the British treaty that restricted Jordan militarily and politically was abolished, a vital step to solidify Jordan’s sovereignty.
Military Cooperation with Arab States: After this decision, Jordan signed military agreements with Arab countries like Egypt, Syria, and Iraq, strengthening the Arab army’s ability to collaborate with neighboring forces in addressing common threats.
Impact of the Decision on the Future
King Hussein’s decision to Arabize the army was a crucial strategic move that paved the way for stronger military cooperation between Arab countries and enhanced the Arab Army’s image in the region. This decision led to significant shifts in Arab military cooperation, with the Arab Army becoming more powerful and influential in regional military matters.
Today, 69 years after this historic decision, King Abdullah II, following in his father’s footsteps, continues to strengthen and develop the Arab Army, making it one of the most powerful military forces in the region. The Palestinian cause remains integral to Jordan’s political and military identity. Jordan continues to support Palestinian rights and stands firmly in defense of them in international forums.
Conclusion
The decision to Arabize the Arab Army in 1956 was a landmark step toward achieving military independence, and it had long-term effects on Jordan’s military capabilities and regional influence. This decision empowered the Jordanian military, allowing it to make decisions independently and strengthen cooperation with other Arab nations.
