Ammon News -

*Princess Basma: I am proud and honored to live in the era of King Abdullah II

*Princess Basma: King Hussein was my elder brother, father, friend, and role model in life

*Princess Basma: The journey of development has continued through His Majesty’s commitment to King Hussein’s legacy in a modern and remarkable way

*Princess Basma: Every era has its own requirements, challenges, and risks — and the King fully understands that

*Princess Basma: The King is fully aware of domestic conditions, including economic challenges and the realities facing families

*Princess Basma: The King cares deeply about families, their security, and creating opportunities for them

*Princess Basma: Crown Prince Hussein has inherited many qualities from both King Hussein and King Abdullah II

*Princess Basma: Ammon enjoys strong credibility and a wide audience, and I follow it with admiration

*Princess Basma: Anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Jordanians’ concerns should turn to Ammon and its peers

*Princess Basma: Online newspapers play a major role in Jordan’s modernization process

*Princess Basma: Digital media must stay ahead of the curve and keep pace with global changes

*Princess Basma: Jordanians have a strong culture of charity, volunteerism, solidarity, and compassion

*Princess Basma: I have learned a great deal from people’s perspectives and ways of thinking

*Princess Basma: One of my greatest sources of happiness is being among people in the field

*Princess Basma: Volunteer work is a longstanding part of Jordanian heritage

*Princess Basma: We have made notable progress in supporting women, but I always call for more

*Princess Basma: Women are often the first to bear the burden when new challenges or difficult circumstances arise

*Princess Basma: My thoughts and concerns always remain with poor women who shoulder responsibility for their families



Seventy-five years of life and more than half a century in public service have made Princess Basma bint Talal a witness to Jordan’s transformations, closely connected to the details of its society and actively engaged in its issues, particularly those related to women, families, volunteerism, and development.

From rural areas, the Badia, and refugee camps to cities and villages, her relationship with Jordanians has never been limited to official occasions or formal positions. Rather, it has been a long journey in the field, during which, she says, she learned from the people themselves, from their ability to face life’s challenges, and from the spirit of solidarity and mutual support that she believes is an integral part of the Jordanian character.

In an interview conducted with "Ammon News" on Monday, marking more than twenty years since its establishment, Princess Basma shared with journalist Samir Alhyari reflections on the history of Jordanian media, from the era of print journalism, with which she grew up, to the age of digital media. She believes digital platforms have become more capable of rapidly reaching people’s concerns, challenges, and achievements. At the same time, she warns of the other side of this transformation, when speed comes at the expense of accuracy and becomes a space for misinformation, abuse, and negative influence, particularly on women and young people.

Speaking about the Hashemite family, Princess Basma reflected on her late brother, King Hussein bin Talal, describing him as an older brother, a father, and a friend, as well as her role model in life.

She then turned to King Abdullah II, whom she sees as continuing the nation-building journey, but with the tools of a different era and amid unprecedented challenges. She expressed confidence in his wisdom and his ability to lead Jordan through a turbulent region and a rapidly changing world.

As for Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II, Princess Basma spoke of him with clear affection, describing him as a cheerful, capable young man who connects well with his generation. She emphasized that the admiration young people have for him is mutual and that he shares part of the responsibility carried by his father.

The full interview:

Interviewer Samir Alhyari:

Today, we are honored to meet a distinguished Jordanian Hashemite figure who has graciously joined us on the occasion of more than 20 years since the founding of Ammon News Agency. She is the Basma (smile) of Jordanians a beacon of goodness cherished by all Jordanians for her achievements—Her Royal Highness Princess Basma bint Talal.


HRH Princess Basma bint Talal:

I would like to express my great pleasure at being here at Ammon with a dear and long-standing friend for whom I have the utmost respect and appreciation. I am delighted to join in celebrating the 20th anniversary of Ammon News Agency. Thanks to your efforts, vision, and dedicated commitment to everything Ammon strives to achieve, this remarkable journey and the significant transformation it has witnessed have been, and continue to be, the result of your hard work. My warmest congratulations to you and the entire Ammon family.

Samir Alhyari:

As Jordan’s first private news agency, Ammon has now been operating for nearly 20 years. How does Your Royal Highness view electronic media in Jordan and its national role?

HRH Princess Basma:

I would like to extend my appreciation and gratitude to Ammon and its team, and offer my heartfelt congratulations on this achievement. I believe that electronic newspapers and modern media play a significant role in Jordan’s ongoing modernization under the leadership of His Majesty the King. As the country witnesses major developments across various sectors, digital media must remain at the forefront, keeping pace with both global and local changes.

Ammon enjoys strong credibility and a wide readership, and I follow it with admiration, particularly because it publishes in both Arabic and English, enabling it to reach a very broad audience.

Samir Alhyari:

Through your long career in public service and social development, you have witnessed the evolution of media from traditional platforms to digital media. How do you view this transformation, and what is required of the media today to preserve its professional mission and maintain public trust?

HRH Princess Basma:

Throughout my life journey, which now spans 70 years, we grew up with traditional newspapers such as Ad-Dustour, Al-Rai, Al-Arab Al-Yawm, and various weekly publications. These newspapers had a distinguished history, made important contributions, and played a vital role in society.

Today, however, we have entered a new era in which media can rapidly draw attention to challenges, issues, developments, achievements, and events, something that traditional newspapers could not always cover with the same speed and scope available to electronic media.

Anyone wishing to better understand the concerns of Jordanians should turn to Ammon and its fellow online news platforms. I am a supporter of Ammon.

At the same time, we see around the world a growing tendency to prioritize speed and audience attraction, sometimes at the expense of accuracy. This can have negative consequences, particularly for women and young people. For example, harmful online comments and forms of harassment have discouraged many women from running in elections, limiting their participation in political and developmental roles.

The same concern applies to youth, who are still developing and may be more inclined to believe everything they encounter online. Therefore, digital platforms and modern technologies bear a responsibility to confront negative influences and strengthen positive values.

Samir Alhyari:

Your Royal Highness has long been known for championing social and developmental causes, with a strong presence among communities in cities, villages, Bedouin areas, and refugee camps. How do you assess these years of work, and what are the key lessons from your experience?

HRH Princess Basma:

One thing I can say is that helping others, volunteering, and showing solidarity and compassion are deeply embedded in our identity as Jordanians. Whether inspired by our religious or social values, I have always encountered people who are eager to contribute, give, and support one another. I have learned a great deal from people’s perspectives and experiences.

Personally, when I reflect on my years of service and, God willing, the years aheadone of the greatest sources of happiness for me is being among people in local communities and meeting individuals who remain positive despite the challenges they face, whether within their families, communities, or livelihoods.

Since the beginning, charitable associations spread across Jordan’s villages and towns have played a crucial role. They have strengthened social bonds, provided mutual support, and fostered a shared commitment to serving society. Volunteerism is an integral part of our heritage, and it remains alive today. It has also benefited from improved organization and management, which have contributed to greater success.

In earlier years, the sector required stronger organization, but overall, it remains healthy because the determination and goodwill of people are still present.

Samir Alhyari:

Your Royal Highness has long been a strong advocate for women’s rights and issues, leaving a lasting impact in this field. How do you assess the status of Jordanian women today and their role in the nation’s development?

HRH Princess Basma:

Thank God, we have made considerable progress, although I always call for more. While the achievements have been significant, we have not yet reached our goals, not in Jordan, and not globally.

Whenever major challenges, political crises, or difficult circumstances arise, women are often the first to bear the consequences. Setbacks tend to come at women’s expense, and this is something we must continue to resist, both as women and as a society. Women cannot achieve these goals alone.

Our aspirations differ from those in the West. Our objective is for women to receive the attention they deserve from the state, the public sector, and the private sector in terms of dignity, employment opportunities, economic participation, representation, and involvement in decision-making.

Next week, I will participate in an event marking International Equal Pay Day, which highlights a fundamental right. I understand that achieving pay equity is not always simple. Employers may assume that a woman could take time away from work at certain stages of her life and therefore prefer to hire a man. However, this is not the solution.

Development and progress cannot be achieved without the participation of all members of society. Women have repeatedly demonstrated their capabilities in education and numerous professions, proving that they can contribute alongside men in an effective and meaningful way.

I also extend my respect and appreciation to the institutions and women’s movements in Jordan that have grown and evolved over the decades. The women’s movement, which began in the late 1940s in both Palestine and Jordan, has remained active and influential.

I recall with great warmth the Fourth World Conference on Women in Beijing, where I participated with a large Jordanian delegation. We represented not only Jordan but, in many ways, the Arab world, as no other Arab delegation matched ours in size and engagement. Since then, Jordanian women have become increasingly visible and influential on the international stage.

At the same time, the Jordanian National Commission for Women was established by a Cabinet decision. After thirty years of dedicated work and growing professionalism, the Commission eventually secured its own law approved by Parliament.

Although we were able to build and achieve results before this legal framework existed, its adoption represents important recognition of the Commission’s credibility and contributions. It also means we must continue working even harder and cooperate closely with government institutions, civil society, and all stakeholders to advance women’s needs and roles.

While I take pride in every woman who has reached a leadership position, my thoughts and concerns always return to the women I meet in the field—the poor woman, the widow, the woman with disabilities, and the woman who bears responsibility for her family. These women inspire me with their courage and resilience.

We must continue reducing these gaps and overcoming these challenges. I have dedicated my life to serving this segment of Jordanian society.

Samir Alhyari:

Your Royal Highness, as the younger sister of the late King Hussein bin Talal, may he rest in peace, you were closely connected to him and witnessed Jordan’s development during his reign. Today, Jordan is experiencing a new era of progress under His Majesty King Abdullah II ibn Al Hussein. How do you view this journey, and what message would you like to share?

HRH Princess Basma:

I grew up during the era of King Hussein, may God rest his soul. To me, he was an elder brother, a father figure, a friend, and a role model. He was truly exceptional, and his humanity was extraordinary. He remains alive in my heart every day.

Today, I am proud and honored to live in the era of King Abdullah II. He, too, is an exceptional leader. Every era has its own requirements, and every leader has his own style and approach.

Jordan may be a small country geographically, but it enjoys immense respect internationally because of its reputation, role, and contributions. His Majesty is recognized worldwide for his capabilities, responsibilities, and service to Jordan.

Thankfully, the path of development and progress has continued under His Majesty’s leadership and commitment to preserving and advancing this legacy in a modern and inspiring way.

The challenges facing the world today, particularly in our region, are unlike those of any previous era. Every period has its own demands and risks, and His Majesty understands this fully. He spares no effort in safeguarding Jordan and its people.

Through his awareness, dedication, wisdom, and sense of responsibility, he consistently guides the country toward stability and security. This deserves our appreciation, respect, and confidence. Those who carry responsibility experience burdens that others may not fully see—the concern, the effort, the perseverance, and the constant renewal of energy required to keep Jordan strong.

His Majesty is deeply aware of the economic realities facing Jordanian families and, like his father, genuinely cares about the wellbeing, security, and opportunities available to every family and individual.

Although I do not see His Majesty every day, I feel and understand his commitment. As his aunt, I hold great affection for him, but my admiration is also rooted in deep respect for his abilities and leadership.

As long as His Majesty continues to lead with wisdom and determination, always placing Jordan first, I can only thank God for the head of our family, the leader of the Hashemite family, my King, and my nephew.

I pray every day that God blesses his efforts, guides him, and grants him success. With His Majesty’s leadership and the support of our loyal people, I hope Jordan will continue to enjoy security, prosperity, and even brighter days ahead.

Samir Alhyari:

Before the interview began, Your Royal Highness spoke about His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein.

HRH Princess Basma:

Whenever I see photographs or videos of Crown Prince Al Hussein, he immediately brings a sense of warmth to my heart. He is cheerful, highly capable, and has been exceptionally well prepared and educated for his role. He is intelligent and fully aware of the responsibilities before him.

I particularly admire his optimism, his smile, and the way he interacts with people. He carries a significant share of responsibility alongside his father, which is both necessary and important at this stage.

I wish him every success. My relationship with him is very special. What matters most to me is how people treat others, and I see in him many qualities inherited from his grandfather, King Hussein, just as King Abdullah did. There is continuity in both values and leadership style.

The affection between Crown Prince Al Hussein and Jordan’s youth is mutual. Young people admire him and take pride in him because he has the ability to connect with their generation, which represents more than half of Jordan’s population.

I wish him all the best and hope he will continue to be a strong support to his father and to Jordan’s future.