Mais AlQudah

Jordanians have witnessed for the past couple of weeks a common and steadfast show of anger that His Majesty King Abdullah II, God preserve him, has ventured, one that was replete with urgency and sincerity. Using words of crystal clearness, His Majesty referred to the existence in the Kingdom of organizations with foreign orientation following agendas that bear no connection to Jordan's national agenda. His words were not uttered casually; they were a measured and forceful warning that clandestine maneuvering need no longer be tolerated and that the patience of the Jordanian state — prudent as it is — has been tested to the breaking point. It was absolutely a threat that betrayal would not be answered with negotiation but with resolve.

The King's words were not uttered in vain. It was a call of warning — an alarm of awakening meant to alert the people that the patience of Jordan is not infinite and that its security is not negotiable. Despite Jordan's old traditions of wisdom, diplomacy, and leniency, the line is drawn. It is time to confront those who have traded loyalty for foreign or personal gain and who are trying to destabilize the social fabric of a country built on unity and sacrifice.

Over the years, there have been individuals and groups, motivated by foreign interests, who have tried to exploit Jordan's hospitality. Driven by self-interest and misguided by foreign manipulation, they thought Jordan could be manipulated, its stability undermined, and its people divided. But they underestimated the resilience of this country. Jordan is not a battlefield for other people's wars, nor a playground for anarchy and subversion. It is a free homeland — proud, dignified, and defended by loyal citizens and strong institutions.

Those who attempt to undermine national security should understand that they have an organization to deal with, a strong and vigilant army, Jordan's security establishment, with an emphasis on the General Intelligence Directorate, ever vigilant, expecting danger before it arises, and meticulous in ensuring the safety of the Jordanian people at all costs. These are no security forces in the classic sense, they are manifestations of national will, guardians of the country's values, and guardians of its peace.

Attempts to harm Jordan are like punching bare fists on stone — an exercise in futility against a nation made strong by unity, honor, and heritage. Though geographically small, it is big when it comes to strength, leadership, and commitment. Our security organs have always found and broken plots time and again, intended to instill an atmosphere of terror and fear. Whether it is through illegal caches of weapons, drones, or hired instruments of treachery, those plots have repeatedly failed — not by chance, but by the unshakeable resolve of those who serve behind the scenes.

History has shown that Jordan has never stopped being faced with those who seek to diminish its sovereignty. But again and again, the country prevails. Its flag continues to fly high, and its institutions continue to function with honor. Those individuals who tread the road of treason may create a hubbub for a time, but they end up as nothing, while the Jordanian state remains — more powerful and united.

Treason is not disagreement, conspiracy is not opinion, and national security is not a topic for debate. Those who have betrayed their country cannot appeal for forgiveness through platitudes or token gestures. In Jordan, defending national interests goes beyond political correctness and diplomatic courtesy.

To all of those who believe that Jordan can be intimidated, compromised, or manipulated: learn from our past, and read about it. Jordan doesn't fall. Jordan doesn't trade its values. Jordan doesn't kneel.

The new developments have once again proved the strength of the Jordanian character. The forceful statements of the King uncovered hidden plots. The consciousness of the people dissipated the conspiracy. And the firm stand of our institutions ensured that the plotters will never triumph.

We owe gratitude to the humble guardians of this country — to the women and men who keep Jordan safe not for gain, but for honor and love. They are our defense, they are the still power that holds our peace.

Jordan will remain, as it has ever remained, resolute and untouchable — its strong points secure, its avenues noble, and its defenders noble.