By Amer Al Sabaileh


When Hamas was expelled from Jordan in 1999, it was clear that such a decision was taken to defend strategic national interests. At a later stage, especially during the Bush and New Conservative era, many (including myself) urged the Jordanian State to bring back Hamas as an important frontline against the proposed “Jordanian option” – a convenient solution for the US administration perhaps, but opposed by Jordanians and Palestinians alike as it threatened the very existence of their national status’.



What may be strategically viable in one scenario can radically change in another. Interests are subject to change. Hence, today, the return of Hamas to Amman is no longer considered an act of assistance; it is a potential risk to the national security and stability of Jordanian society. Rather than welcoming a hero, it’s like hiding an outlaw in the house.

Any development of the Syrian situation will determine the shape of things to come in the region. Hamas is likely to leave Damascus, targeting Amman as a future destination. However, the return of a “tamed Hamas” would mean their full involvement in political life which would be like throwing a stone into a silent lake – the refugee camps. These new players would give the Muslim Brothers of Jordan what they claim to have, but lack in reality: sufficient numbers to popular pressure. The Prime Minister’s policy and actions to promote the Muslim Brothers as the exclusive protagonist cannot but do them a favor in achieving this goal.

Many observers have expressed concern over an alliance between the PM and the Muslim Brothers. However, the PM is expected to prove his good intentions by adopting a neutral position towards all popular movements, especially those of our cities such as Tafilh and Kerak in the south.

He is also expected to remember that as PM he represents the State, not himself and any deal with Hamas or the MB should enhance Jordanian national interest. Jordan should not have to pay the price of Hamas’s isolation from Iran and Syria and we should be wary of creating a new power in the street today which could turn out to be a catastrophically strategic mistake tomorrow.


The visit of King Abdullah to Ramallah was a real Machiavellian move. Paying a visit to Abu Mazen at this stage is considered a clear message on domestic, regional and international levels that the PNA is our main reference and legitimate Palestinian political power. Moreover, it anticipated the Palestinian reconciliation meeting. The indirect implications are, if we are to receive Hamas in Jordan it will be under the umbrella of the efforts to achieve Palestinian reconciliation and will never have any political meaning on Jordanian soil. This is a clear message to the MB and their followers and promoters. The visit is also a reminder that a Jordanian political role in the peace process is unavoidable.

Dr. Amer Al Sabaileh

http://amersabaileh.blogspot.com