Amman, April 1 (Petra) – Former Prime Minister Samir Rifai said that Jordan is an integral part of the joint Arab action system, adding that the phase of regional escalation requires unity behind the Jordanian state and the Hashemite leadership, as well as strengthened confidence in national institutions.
In remarks to the Jordan News Agency (Petra), Rifai said such unity is not only a national duty but a fundamental pillar for enhancing political resilience and ensuring the continuation of Jordan's role as a voice of moderation and balance in a region facing mounting crises.
He described the developments as an unprecedented regional crisis, marked by unjustified aggression against Jordan and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states, with far-reaching regional and global political and economic repercussions.
Despite these challenges, he said that safeguarding Jordan's security and stability must remain the top priority.
Rifai warned that competing regional projects, particularly those of Israel and Iran, have exploited Arab divisions to expand their influence and destabilise states by fueling polarisation and undermining trust between governments and their peoples.
He underscored that Jordan's priority must remain clear: preserving its stability, protecting its institutions and maintaining its ability to act in a balanced manner across political and economic fronts.
He noted that regional developments are closely linked to economic conditions, emphasising that Jordan, like other countries, is directly affected by instability and must plan for all possible scenarios.
Rifai called for strengthening ties with Arab neighbours, particularly Syria and Iraq, as well as deepening cooperation with Saudi Arabia and GCC. He urged enhanced economic integration, the opening of Arab markets and the reinforcement of a collective security framework to advance shared interests.
He added that Jordan is well-positioned to play the role within the Arab world, describing it as a continuation of its longstanding commitment to regional stability.
He added that the next phase requires both greater self-reliance and stronger Arab interdependence, noting that unity remains the key to Arab strength.
On Palestine, Rifai said that protecting the occupied West Bank from displacement, depopulation or the erosion of prospects for a political solution is a priority for Jordan.
He said developments in the occupied West Bank directly affect Jordan's national security and the future of the Palestinian cause, reaffirming Jordan's longstanding support for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.
He called for maintaining Jordan's standing on the international stage, describing global trust in the Kingdom as a core element of its strength and influence.
Rifai concluded by noting that Jordanian decision-making is guided by institutional processes and strategic assessment, rather than emotion or political rhetoric, which has enabled the country to navigate regional crises and maintain stability over time.
//Petra// AK
