Amman, Feb. 18 (Petra) – His Majesty King Abdullah II reaffirmed Jordan’s unwavering stance on the Palestinian cause and expressed deep appreciation for military retirees during a meeting with former servicemen at the Royal Hashemite Court on Monday.

Military experts told the Jordan News Agency (Petra) that the gathering, held to mark Veterans Day, carried significant messages. The king’s meeting underscored his recognition of retired military personnel as a strategic asset with extensive operational, administrative, and leadership expertise.

The meeting also reflected Jordan’s firm rejection of any attempts to displace Palestinians or establish an alternative homeland, reinforcing the country's long-standing position on the issue.

Commitment to National Principles

Retired Major General Adnan Al Raqqad, Director General of the Economic and Social Association for Military Retirees (ESARSV), described the event as more than a symbolic occasion. He said it was a strategic moment to reaffirm Jordan’s national principles and send a clear message to those seeking to destabilize the country.

Al Raqqad emphasized the king’s unwavering commitment to what he termed the "three no’s" no to displacement, no to resettlement, and no to an alternative homeland calling them a cornerstone of Jordan’s national security policy for decades.

A Message to Critics and External Influences

Retired Major General Hisham Khreisat said the king’s remarks served as a direct message to both domestic and international audiences at a particularly sensitive time for the region. He dismissed any doubts about Jordan’s position, highlighting the king’s consistent stance over the past 25 years.

Khreisat also pointed to the His Majesty’s remarks about external influences, stressing that Jordan’s sovereignty and national interests remain non-negotiable.

Jordan’s Readiness and Strategic Depth

Retired Major General Abdullah Al Hasanat noted that Jordan has remained steadfast in supporting Palestinians and opposing any forced displacement. He highlighted the king’s reference to military retirees as a "reserve army" that continues to play a crucial role in safeguarding national security.

His Majesty's meeting with military retirees and veterans is a continuation of the Hashemite's approach to communicating with comrades-in-arms and honoring the souls of martyrs, said retired Major General Hassan al-Qiyam.

Retired Brigadier General Zayed Al-Sawayer Al-Ajarmah expressed pride in the day, stressing that military retirees are at the center of His Majesty the King's attention, as he constantly raises their concerns and issues in all forums.

Meanwhile, retired Colonel Mohammad Al-Maqabla underscored the king’s emphasis on military preparedness, calling the meeting a reaffirmation of Jordan’s commitment to defending its national interests.

Unwavering Support for Palestine

Security and strategic analyst Omar Al Raddad said the meeting demonstrated Jordan’s principled approach to the Palestinian issue. He added that the king’s reference to the challenges facing Jordan and the critical role of the armed forces underscored the country’s reliance on its military and security institutions for stability.

Al Raddad also highlighted the king’s pointed remarks about individuals taking orders from external sources. He suggested that the king’s statement, "shame on them," was a direct warning to those attempting to undermine Jordan’s policies toward Palestine and Gaza.

He concluded that King Abdullah continues to balance political pragmatism with unwavering national principles, ensuring Jordan remains prepared to protect its sovereignty amid shifting regional dynamics.

//Petra// AF

18/02/2025 22:06:05