Preparing for all probabilities

The regional developments and their potential impact provide an interesting context for Jordan’s recent approach towards Iran.

The approach follows the strategic rule that security priorities are more important than political interests.

Since the outbreak of the Syrian crisis, Tehran has been seeking to open a channel of dialogue with Jordan.

The attempts of former Iranian foreign minister Ali Akhbar Salehi failed because of the view in Jordan, at the time, that the Assad regime would fall and the US would be ready to go in.

The current Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif’s visit to Jordan was much more positive.

The Iranians received a pledge from King Abdullah of a high-profile ambassador and former minister Abdullah Abu Ruman was appointed ambassador to Tehran.

While the appointment can be viewed from various perspectives, politically it shows Jordan’s concern with the continued instability in Syria and the risk of collapse of that country into complete chaos.

This would have a massive impact not only on Jordan but on the entire region.

With Iran a major protagonist in both Iraq and Syria, where the situation escalated in recent months, Jordan is building a strategic relationship, preparing to counter the negative impact of violence if it spills across the border.

Jordan has been playing a greater role in the coalition fighting terrorism after the assassination of pilot Muath Kasasbeh.

Amid the increasing confusion regarding the US-led coalition’s strategy, Jordan needs to manage the threat it faces.

A strategy that addresses internal issues requires a flexible diplomatic strategy to protect the country from the crises outside its borders, especially Syria.

In order for this new diplomatic strategy to be credible, there is need for fundamental changes in people, language and operating style.

A new dynamic strategy and politics can only succeed in tandem with concrete application and credible messages.

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