Jordan's King Links Regional Stability to a Palestinian Homeland

Jordan’s King Abdullah II said on November 2 that regional security and stability depended on Palestinians’ right to a homeland, renewing that position in his Speech from the Throne at the opening of Parliament in Amman. He inaugurated the third ordinary session of Jordan’s Twentieth Parliament. Abdullah said that “there can be no security or stability in our region without upholding the Palestinian people’s right to their homeland.” He also reaffirmed Jordan’s Arab identity and its aspiration for a united Arab voice. The address combined that regional message with instructions to Jordan’s legislators and government. The king described Parliament as central to political life and told its members to represent the nation, protect public interests and scrutinize government performance. He said differing opinions strengthened the institution when legislators shared the national interest, adding that citizens assessed their conduct and rhetoric alongside their legislative work. Abdullah also urged the government to accelerate strategic national projects intended to strengthen the economy and Jordan’s regional role. He described water security as a pillar of national sovereignty and called for continued water-security projects and proactive plans to safeguard resources for future generations. Crown Prince Hussein accompanied him; Queen Rania, Prince Hashem, senior officials and members of the Arab and foreign diplomatic corps attended.