Samih Maaitah

For years, throughout the Syrian crisis and perhaps even before it began, southern Syria has been a source of serious concern for Jordan’s national security. The proliferation of extremist terrorist groups, the expansion of Iranian-backed networks, and the persistent smuggling of weapons and narcotics across the border have compounded the threat.

During periods when the Syrian state lost control of the south, Jordan was left to shoulder much of the burden of safeguarding its own security and protecting its borders.

Following the fall of the former Syrian regime, Jordan demonstrated a genuine commitment to building constructive relations with the new Syrian authorities. The two countries established close ties, underpinned by high-level cooperation and coordination across a broad range of fields. Yet, despite this progress, southern Syria has continued to pose security concerns for Jordan.

Amman has consistently opposed any attempt to partition Syria and has remained vigilant against threats to both Syria’s territorial integrity and Jordan’s national security. Particular concern surrounds extremist organisations that threaten the stability of both countries, especially amid allegations that some of these groups may coordinate with Israel, whose military operations in southern Syria continue.

The Friday’s terrorist attack at Hmoud Church in Karak cannot be viewed in isolation from the security threats emanating from southern Syria. According to documented intelligence available to the Jordanian authorities, the connection was based on intelligence findings rather than speculation.

Faced with a threat to its citizens, Jordan could not afford to leave any available means of counterterrorism unused. Its response included forceful strikes against the hideouts of these organizations, killing several of their members.

At the same time, Jordan has remained mindful of the importance of maintaining constructive relations with Syria. Coordination between the two sides has been part of this approach. Jordan’s record during the Syrian crisis is instructive: even when the Syrian state had lost its presence in parts of the south, the Jordanian army did not cross into Syrian territory.

For Jordan, national security remains the highest priority. Armed extremist organisations must understand that threats to Jordan will be met with a firm response. Yet deterrence and cooperation are not mutually exclusive.

Jordan remains committed to coordination with the Syrian state at every level, recognizing that both countries face a common threat.

Amman also understands the considerable challenges confronting Syria, both at home and abroad. Efforts to confront extremist groups therefore serve the interests of both countries: they help protect Jordanian citizens while contributing to Syria’s security and stability.

Jordan’s right to defend its national security is not negotiable. At the same time, coordination with Syria remains essential. These are complementary principles, not competing priorities. Effective cooperation can help prevent security threats from escalating and strengthen the ability of both states to protect their citizens.

The Jordanian army has a long record of receiving and protecting Syrians who fled violence and death, welcoming tens of thousands of people seeking refuge. That humanitarian responsibility reflects a commitment that extends beyond borders: the preservation of innocent human life. Jordan’s concern for the safety of Syrian civilians remains undiminished.