Political parties stand behind army in protecting Jordan

AMMAN — Several political parties on Thursday underlined their support for the Jordan Armed Forces (JAF) and the security apparatus in defending the country against those attempting to harm it.

In a statement carried by the Jordan News Agency, Petra, the Islamic Centrist Party (ICP) described JAF’s role in protecting the security of Jordan and its borders as “heroic” and emphasised its rejection of extremism and terrorism. 

The party said it supports moderation and tolerance, which “reflect the true image of Islam”, noting that killing any human regardless of his/her beliefs or belonging is forbidden in Islam.

The ICP voiced its appreciation for the Kingdom’s “moderate” and “balanced” stance towards regional crises, in addition to the “objectivity” of its foreign policy while also stressing that Jordan has a right to protect its borders, and maintain the security and stability of all those residing in its territory. 

The statement highlighted that Jordan has suffered and is still suffering from the effects of extremism and terrorism, drawing specific attention to the devastation of the 2005 Amman hotel bombings, which claimed the lives of 60 innocent people. 

The ICP called for moderation and tolerance according to the teachings of Islam, urging Jordanians to work together to “immunise our internal front by abiding by the true values of Islam and addressing the social and economic imbalances facing society to achieve justice and equality among all”.    

The National Union Party also urged citizens to “unite their ranks against challenges facing the region” and support the country’s leadership and JAF forces, according to Petra.

The party urged Jordanians to put internal disputes aside and prioritise Jordan’s higher interests, noting that the Kingdom has always promoted interfaith dialogue and coexistence.

In addition, the National Labour Party underlined its support for the efforts of JAF and security apparatuses to protect the country. 

The Islamic Action Front, the political arm of the Muslim Brotherhood, also commended the work of the army, according to Petra. 

Departing from a statement issued earlier this week by the Muslim Brotherhood, IAF Secretary General Mohammad Zyoud said in a lecture that the party supports Jordan’s right to protect its territory against the self-titled Islamic State (IS). 

In a statement released on Tuesday, the Muslim Brotherhood expressed its rejection of Jordan’s involvement in the US-led coalition against the IS terrorist group.

The Islamist movement said that it is against any foreign intervention in Arab and Muslim affairs, warning that the coalition will stoke sedition in the region.