His Majesty’s UN speech sparks political debate on Gaza crisis, region stability — analysts

AMMAN — His Majesty King Abdullah's recent address at the 79th Session of the UN General Assembly has sparked "significant political rhetoric" regarding the escalating crisis in Gaza, prompting a critical analysis of the broader geopolitical landscape.

In the speech, His Majesty emphasised the urgency of peace and stability, calling upon international leaders to re-evaluate the state of the world. 

His Majesty also highlighted a strategic vision for resolving ongoing conflicts, warning that the current global status quo is untenable, according to the UN website.

“It often feels that there was not a moment when our world was not in turmoil. And yet, I cannot recall a time of greater peril than this,” His Majesty said, stressing the need for swift, decisive action. 

The King also highlighted the international community's moral obligation to establish protective frameworks for Palestinians living under over 57 years of occupation and oppression in the occupied territories.

Commenting on the address, Minister of Government Communication Mohammad Momani told The Jordan Times that the King’s speech conveyed a strong Jordanian-Arab stance, calling for the Palestinians' right to self-determination. 

Momani also noted that His Majesty upheld the principles and interests of the Arab world, "reflecting the collective conscience of Arabs and other honourable people worldwide."

The minister also highlighted His Majesty’s frustration with Israeli extremism, especially regarding the notion of an “alternative homeland” for Palestinians, adding: “This was most apparent when the King pointed directly at the Israeli delegate in the General Assembly Hall.” 

Momani also stressed that Israel’s ongoing aggression on Palestine and Lebanon is pushing the region towards an explosion, particularly with its refusal to engage with any proposals for de-escalation or ceasefire.

“His Majesty reaffirmed to the world Jordan’s unwavering position against the forced displacement of Palestinians and the concept of an alternative homeland," he said, adding: "No matter the cost, Jordan will never allow such a scenario to pass."

Former minister of state for media affairs Samih Maaitah said that His Majesty’s speech served as a reminder of the need for urgent action.

While the speech was not a step-by-step solution, Maaitah said it laid out critical demands that must be immediately addressed, including ending the aggression on Gaza, initiating a political roadmap, and establishing a productive negotiation process.

"His Majesty reminded the world that while political systems may fail, humanity must not fail the people of Gaza,” Maaitah said. 

“We must focus on the humanitarian crisis, as the situation is difficult and catastrophic. Once the war ends, the world will recognise that the humanitarian dimensions of the conflict in Gaza are deeper and more severe than what was initially apparent.”

Maaitah also said that Jordan remains deeply committed to addressing the humanitarian crisis, aligning its efforts with the principles of human conscience. 

"What is required now is not just aid, but a comprehensive vision that ensures Palestinians in Gaza receive the necessities for survival," he added. 

He also pointed out that the United Nations is facing an unprecedented crisis of accountability, noting that the King, in his speech, made it clear that the world cannot afford to turn a blind eye to the absence of global responsibility.

Maaitah also noted that Jordan’s relationship with Israel is guided not by a strict political balance but by unwavering support for the Palestinian cause.