Dr. Ahmad Al Hyari

The recent debate surrounding Israel’s ban on property ownership in Jordan raises critical questions about the broader implications of allowing non-Jordanians to acquire land and real estate. It makes little sense to restrict only Israelis from purchasing property, as Israeli agencies are not lacking in American and European passports, which enable them to buy land anywhere in the world. So, what is the solution?

To understand the gravity of the situation, one must look back at the movements of Israeli agencies since the early 20th century. These agencies have acted as a Trojan horse, first paving the way for the occupation of Palestine and continuing to play similar roles to this day. Initially, they operated under various guises, laying the groundwork for what later evolved into gangs and, eventually, a political entity that has destabilized the region.

Indeed, Israelis holding American and European nationalities exist and actively operate. This reality necessitates a robust response. The solution, in my view, lies in temporarily suspending laws permitting real estate ownership by foreigners—whether Arab or non-Arab—until we fully grasp the truth about the dynamics unfolding around us.

Wisdom demands vigilance. The Israeli right-wing, particularly under Netanyahu’s leadership, has been explicit about its ambitions in the region. Handling this sensitive issue with indifference would be perilous.

While officials and politicians may claim they are fully aware of the risks, such reassurances are insufficient. What use are vigilant eyes if we allow a French, American, or British individual to purchase property under legal pretenses, only to discover later that this individual is an Israeli operating under a different passport?

This is not a theoretical concern but a lesson from history. Palestine fell, in part, due to the strategic purchase of land and real estate. Responsible authorities must treat this matter with the utmost seriousness. It is no a joke.

As a guiding principle, I refer to a legal maxim: “What is not obligatory becomes obligatory when necessary.” Applying this to real estate ownership means imposing a temporary prohibition on foreign and Arab nationals from acquiring property in Jordan. This precautionary measure is essential to safeguard our sovereignty and mitigate potential risks.

Merely assuring citizens that officials are attentive to these concerns is insufficient. It is true that we see and hear what happens in our country. But it is equally true that there are those who work relentlessly, often covertly, to undermine our nation. Legislative measures are a necessary safeguard.

No doubt, current and former officials will rush to reassure the public, delving into legislative and legal details to justify their positions. However, this is not enough. The need of the hour is clear: suspend non-Jordanian ownership of property—whether by Arabs or other foreigners—until we have a firmer grasp of the evolving regional dynamics and the threats they may pose.

Such a step is not one of paranoia but of prudence. It is a call to protect the Kingdom from potentially harmful outcomes rooted in negligence or misplaced trust. The region’s history offers ample evidence of what happens when vigilance falters. Let us heed these lessons and act decisively for the sake of our homeland.

 

Dr. Ahmad Al Hyari is a Researcher at Center for Strategic Studies - University of Jordan