Jordan’s army and security forces directed a double-edged strike at the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS). The Jordanian armed forces participated in the airstrikes led by the United States against the group’s strongholds inside Syria in the past two days, after conducting a series of strikes along the border at vehicles that were said to be a security threat to the Hashemite Kingdom. As for the security forces, in the past two months they have allegedly arrested “terrorists” affiliated with ISIS who were planning operations inside Jordan.
Amman – Reactions among political parties and public opinion in Jordan varied between full backing, reluctant support, opposition and fear of the ramifications of the fight against ISIS in the future.
King Abdullah and the decision-making circles in Jordan justified joining the coalition against ISIS from the very beginning. Information minister and government spokesperson Mohammed al-Momani told Al-Akhbar: “We are keen not to allow ISIS to get closer to our border and we will do whatever is necessary to protect our citizens’ security and safety,” stressing that his country is under a real threat from extremists.