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Jordan in Facing Economic Challenges: Opportunities for Sustainable Development
Jordan is currently experiencing a critical phase on the political and social levels, where internal challenges intertwine with external influences. In addition to Israeli threats of expansion and occupation of Jordanian territories, Iran’s interference in regional affairs is becoming increasingly evident. Numerous smuggling cases have been recorded, including weapons and drug trafficking, with drones used to transport drugs. There are also activities aimed at influencing Jordan’s political and social environment. This targeting and intervention pose not only security threats but also affect the lives of citizens and the level of social stability, making it essential to strengthen democratic alternatives and the principles of Good Neighborliness.
On the other hand, a political alternative committed to democracy and human rights is emerging, rejecting any external interference in the affairs of other countries and emphasizing Good Neighborliness as the foundation of regional relations. This alternative reflects a clear commitment to respecting state sovereignty and the right of peoples to self-determination. It also presents a positive model that can contribute to enhancing stability in Jordan and the region. Furthermore, it will enable Arab countries to restore full sovereignty and security, which will benefit Jordan through security and prosperity.
These local challenges coincide with significant international events, most notably the Iranian protests in Brussels on Saturday, September 6th, which received support from over 300 parliamentary and trade union groups, as well as hundreds of former officials, mayors, lawyers, and legal experts from around the world. In this context, the joint statement highlights the international community’s solidarity with the Iranian people in their struggle for freedom and democracy, rejecting all forms of dictatorship—whether the former monarchy or the current religious dictatorship. The statement emphasizes the importance of respecting human rights, halting executions, including the Revolutionary Guards as a banned organization, and recognizing the legitimate right of the Iranian people to resistance in order to establish a democratic republic based on the separation of religion and state.
The global support for the Iranian people’s struggle and resistance, as embodied in this statement, strengthens the resilience of democratic forces in the region and underscores the role of Iranian opposition in offering a political alternative capable of protecting human rights and respecting the sovereignty of other countries, including Jordan. The Iranian democratic alternative rejects external interference and emphasizes Good Neighborliness and non-intervention in other countries’ affairs as fundamental pillars of regional and international relations.
This model demonstrates that change is possible through organized, peaceful resistance, respect for state sovereignty, and the promotion of values of freedom and democracy. We view this direction as particularly important for Jordan and the region, especially in confronting internal and external challenges. The Iranian resistance’s clear vision offers a way to achieve social and political stability without infringing on the rights of peoples or destabilizing regional security.
In conclusion, it can be said that the Iranian experience and the democratic resistance supported internationally send a positive message to Jordan and the region. Change is attainable through peaceful resistance, supporting the Iranian people's struggle, and advocating for a third solution—an approach that is the only way toward establishing a democratic Iran. A system that respects state sovereignty and promotes freedom, democracy, and social justice not only in Iran but throughout the region.
Dr. Muhammad Al-Hajj - Former Jordanian Deputy
