Jordan faces potential political upheaval due to rising Islamist movements and instability in the West Bank. Despite significant public support for King Abdullah, the nation grapples with pressures regarding the Palestinian situation, reflecting broader regional tensions and the need for national identity.
The stability of Jordan may be threatened by rising Islamist sentiments and ongoing disorder in the West Bank. Recently, public support for King Abdullah has been evidenced by mass gatherings where citizens celebrated his stance against external pressures, particularly related to the refugee situation. The rallying cry of, ‘Jordan is Jordan, not Palestine,’ underscores the nation’s desire for independence from Palestine’s struggles and highlights the delicate balance Jordan maintains amidst regional turmoil.
In summary, while King Abdullah enjoys substantial popular support following his defiance of external pressures, there are significant risks posed by both Islamist movements and instability in neighboring areas. These dynamics could potentially lead to political upheaval in Jordan, as the country navigates its identity and regional responsibilities.
Original Source: www.economist.com
