Many are pondering whether the outcome of
the forthcoming Israeli election will have a negative impact on the
Jordanian-Israeli relations.
In recent years,
these relations deteriorated. However, many observers underline that after the
departure of Benjamin Netanyahu, the former Israeli prime minister, relations
did improve at an official level, with more courage exhibited by the Jordanian
side, which did and continues to publicize the ongoing meetings with Israeli
leaders and got more engaged diplomatically and politically.
اضافة اعلان
This said, there is
high concern, on the official Jordanian side, about the likelihood of
Netanyahu’s return as the next prime minister. Such a development surely
warrants adopting a realpolitik vision that entails expanding beyond any
possible political change in Israel.
Undoubtedly, the
peace treaty and the security coordination between Jordan and Israel are two
important strategic assets for Jordan. Yet, there is always a need to increase
the value of these assets and capitalize on them.
A possible
Netanyahu return is the concern and the choice of Israelis. Hence, there is no
space for hate or love in real politics, especially considering the peace
treaty with Jordan, which is a matter of necessity rather than choice, due to
geographic, security, and demographic considerations, as it is the case with
the Gulf countries.
Jordan should capitalize on its geographic position and adopt an open-door policy, transforming Amman into a regional hub for reconciliation. This approach is the only guarantor for Jordan’s long-term economic stability and national security.
Through its
geographic location, borders, security, and demographic situation, Jordan has
leverage over regional relations. But to activate this impact, there is need
for progressive diplomacy that takes into consideration the ongoing changes and
key aspects pertinent to bilateral relations, for finding common interests,
playing a vital role, and maximizing the value of geography.
In recent years,
chaos has become an essential feature of the regional scene, driving the
countries of the region to adopt and even benefit from it, as is the case with
the chaos in Syria, which provided Israel with the opportunity to target the
activities of Iran, Hezbollah, and Syria itself.
It might be
legitimate for Jordan to narrow its relationship with Israel. However, this
choice is not always available. Further, while facing the de facto situation,
Jordan’s importance must be highlighted to any Israeli government, regardless
of its political affiliation or position.
The recent
Israeli-Lebanese agreement is a clear indicator that many regional political
actors are concerned with the socio-economic situation, which is reaching a
very critical point, and puts at risk even the legitimacy of these parties and
political actors. Therefore, overcoming economic difficulties, finding job
opportunities, and improving the social conditions should be the priority in
the coming phase.
Jordan should
capitalize on its geographic position and adopt an open-door policy,
transforming Amman into a regional hub for reconciliation. This approach is the
only guarantor for Jordan’s long-term economic stability and national security.
Amer Al-Sabailehi s a Jordanian university professor and
geopolitical expert. He is a leading columnist in national, regional, and
international media, offers consultancies to think tanks and speaks at
international conferences on Middle East politics and developments.
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