By Robert Levings

AMMONNEWS - Jordan has not officially named its new ambassador to Israel yet, probably because Jordan does not want to give the position great importance, columnist Maher Abu Tayr wrote in Al Arab Al Yawm daily:

The available information suggests that Jordan will not nominate any previously well-known political figure and that the nomination will be very technical and done in such a way that downplays the diplomatic significance of the position.

Several scenarios surrounding the future Jordanian ambassador to Israel have been discussed, including various viewpoints – some of them in favor of reducing the importance of the position, while others favor elevating the position’s significance since the region is moving towards direct negotiations.

According to certain confirmations, it is likely that the inclination will be to consider the position of Jordanian ambassador to Israel a position of "shade and shadows."

There is a tendency not to give the position added significance and the deliberateness is intended to feel out the Israelis’ mood regarding the new ambassador and to proceed slowly in announcing the new ambassador’s name.

Jordan does not want to stir the radar amidst reservations in relations between itself and Tel Aviv.

Time is also crucial and therefore Jordan will not rush in announcing the name of the new ambassador, and even though it will eventually have to announce it, the delay is calculated; it has its secrets.

Names of several candidates along with their respective strengths and weaknesses have been discussed for the position of Jordanian ambassador to Israel.

Why do we send an ambassador to Israel in the first place and what is the benefit of having an ambassador there?

Can’t Jordan’s embassy be managed through the charge d’affaires in Tel Aviv just as the Israelis do at their embassy in Amman most of the time?

From Addustour Newspaper/ 8-28-2010