AGP Executive Report

Air Defence Update: Jordan says it intercepted and shot down 20 Iranian missiles aimed at the Azraq area, with debris fragments reported but no injuries or damage, and engineering teams sent to clear remnants. Regional Security: Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar and Egypt condemned the repeated Iranian attacks on Jordan, Bahrain and Kuwait, urging de-escalation and a return to diplomacy. Diplomacy Under Strain: Iran rejected claims by U.S. President Donald Trump that a “great settlement” to end the war is finalized, saying “nothing has been finalized,” as strikes and threats continue to trade blows. Jordan-Iraq Ties: Prime Minister Jaafar Hassan told Iraqi Parliament Speaker Halbousi that Iraq’s security is a pillar of Jordan’s own security, highlighting shared concerns over drones and armed groups operating beyond state control. Humanitarian Aid: Jordan sent a mobile bakery to Lebanon capable of producing up to 70,000 loaves of bread daily. World Cup Focus: Jordan’s Nashama began official World Cup camp in Portland, with Group J fixtures set against Austria, Algeria and Argentina. Energy & Investment: Jordan’s energy minister wrapped up a U.S. visit pushing cooperation in oil, gas and strategic minerals, including the Risha gas pipeline project.

Air Defence Update: Jordan’s Armed Forces say 20 missiles launched from Iran toward the Azraq area were intercepted and shot down early Thursday, with debris falling but no injuries or damage reported, and engineering teams sent to handle remnants. Regional Security: The escalation comes as the US-Iran conflict continues and Iran claims attacks on bases in Jordan and the Gulf, while the US Embassy in Amman has issued security alerts urging Americans to shelter if needed. Humanitarian Aid: Jordan dispatched a mobile bakery to Lebanon via Jaber crossing, producing up to 70,000 loaves of bread daily, as part of ongoing relief convoys. Energy & Investment: Energy and Investment ministers wrapped up a US visit, highlighting talks on oil and gas exploration and the Risha field pipeline linking to the Arab Gas Pipeline. Economy & Trade: Aqaba ports reported 38% growth in handled cargo volume in early June, reaching about 2.8 million tonnes, driven by regional transit demand. Local Governance & Oversight: The Audit Bureau urged stronger digital oversight and governance as Jordan navigates mounting economic pressures. World Cup Focus: Jordan’s first World Cup appearance is set to draw attention, with Arab teams including Jordan among the 48 participating nations.

Regional Security: Jordan’s Armed Forces say they intercepted and shot down 20 missiles launched from Iran toward the Azraq area in Zarqa early Thursday; debris fell but there were no injuries or damage, and engineering teams were sent to secure remnants. US-Iran Escalation: The wider conflict keeps widening as the US carries out a second straight night of strikes on Iran and Iran targets Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan, while Iran claims the Strait of Hormuz is closed and the US denies it. Diplomatic Warning: The US Embassy in Amman issued a security alert urging Americans to stay vigilant and be ready for emergencies amid missile and drone reports. Border and Travel: Jordan Customs says Al-Omari handled over 350,000 passengers, 120,000 vehicles and more than 50,000 cargo trucks in one month, boosting staffing ahead of summer arrivals. Education & Economy: Higher Education opened applications for scholarships in Brazilian universities (deadline July 6), while the Central Bank issued JD150m in 2026 treasury bonds and ACI reported industrial exports up 5.1% to May. Humanitarian Aid: Jordan dispatched a mobile bakery to Lebanon via Jaber to support communities affected by the conflict.

Gaza Humanitarian Aid: 34 Gaza children and 73 relatives returned to the enclave via the King Hussein Bridge after treatment in Jordan under the Jordanian Medical Corridor, with the JAF coordinating evacuations by land and air alongside the Ministry of Health and WHO. Regional Security: Jordan’s Armed Forces said they intercepted and shot down five missiles launched from Iran toward Azraq, with debris falling but no casualties reported. UN Yemen Diplomacy: UN Special Envoy Hans Grundberg wrapped up a new round of Yemen military coordination talks in Amman, focusing on ceasefire planning, maritime security and tension reduction, with plans to bring all three MCC delegations together next. Jordan-Iraq Ties: Prime Minister Jaafar Hassan told Iraqi Parliament Speaker Heit al-Halbousi that Iraq’s security is a pillar of Jordan’s security, warning that non-state armed groups operating from Iraqi territory remain a key concern. World Cup Build-Up: Zain Jordan released an official anthem music video backing Al Nashama, as Jordan’s World Cup debut keeps fans and sponsors rallying around national pride. Trade & Industry: ACI reported Jordan’s industrial exports rose 5.1% in the first five months of 2026, reaching JD2.996bn, despite setbacks in some sectors.

Regional Security: Jordan says it intercepted and destroyed five Iranian missiles targeting the Azraq area, with no injuries or damage reported, as Iran and the US trade strikes after a US Apache helicopter crash near the Strait of Hormuz. Diplomatic Backing: Arab states including the UAE, Qatar and Egypt condemned the Iranian attacks on Jordan, Bahrain and Kuwait, backing measures to protect sovereignty. National Ceremonies: King Abdullah attended a JAF ceremony marking Accession to the Throne Day, the Great Arab Revolt anniversary and Army Day, while the Crown Prince also praised the armed forces and security agencies. Local Enforcement: The Water Authority of Jordan dismantled illegal water connections in Qatraneh, removing tanks and sprayers used to tap main pipelines. Economy Watch: The Amman Stock Exchange fell 1.24% on Wednesday as industrial, services and financial sectors declined. Culture & Lifestyle: A growing Jordanian interest in Chinese culture is being driven by Chinese restaurants shifting from just dining to cultural discovery.

Regional Security: Jordan says it intercepted and shot down five missiles launched from Iran toward the al-Azraq area, with debris falling in Jordan but no injuries or damage, as Iran-US strikes and airspace alerts continue across the Gulf. Humanitarian Gaza: UN agencies warn Gaza’s humanitarian situation is still deteriorating despite a ceasefire, citing ongoing strikes, mass displacement, public health risks, and growing pest and waste-related contamination. Transport Overhaul: The Land Transport Regulatory Commission says Jordan will roll out 100 electronic transport services and expand regulated intercity buses to 1,000 by 2027 as part of a wider digital regulatory push. Border Security: Jordan Armed Forces report Border Guard operations in H1 2026 including 231 smuggling and infiltration attempts, 56 drones downed, and seizures of millions of Captagon pills and other narcotics. World Cup Build-Up: Crown Prince Hussein visited Jordan’s national team camp ahead of the 2026 World Cup, while Royal Jordanian will decorate aircraft with Nashama players’ images. Economy & Jobs: Jordan’s government plans a JD30 monthly salary increase for public workers and retirees under JD600 from 2027, with analysts calling it a boost for low-income spending.

Royal Accession Day: Jordan marked King Abdullah II’s 27th Accession to the Throne anniversary with royal tributes and congratulatory messages from Arab and friendly leaders, while Crown Prince Al Hussein sent wishes for the King’s health and continued support for Jordan. Regional Security: Jordan closely monitored renewed Iran-Israel missile exchanges as airspace alerts and sirens were reported, with the government stressing air traffic continued normally and sovereignty was not up for negotiation. Public Finance & Health Reform: The Cabinet urged ministries to draft 2027 budgets on time, approved a $400m World Bank financing deal for health sector reform through 2030, and ordered a JD30 monthly salary increase for civil and military employees and retirees earning under JD600. Water Theft Crackdown: In Al-Hasa, authorities removed illegal connections used to divert drinking water for vehicle-washing sprinklers, seizing tanks, pumps and sprinklers. Economy & Investment: Central Bank data showed foreign reserves rising to $27.18bn in May, and Amman Vision unveiled its ninth investment package for new commercial, tourism and industrial land plots. World Cup Culture: Royal Jordanian will brand aircraft with Al Nashama players’ images, while Umniah by Beyon launched “Darb Al Asateer” to celebrate Jordan’s World Cup debut.

Budget Push: Prime Minister Jaafar Hassan urged ministries to start drafting 2027 budgets so the draft general budget is submitted within the constitutional deadline for parliamentary approval before end-2026, while also calling for priority spending on water, transport and energy, plus health, education and digitisation. Health Funding: Cabinet approved a $400m World Bank financing deal for a results-based Health Sector Reform Programme running to 2030, targeting better hospital governance, stronger primary care, earlier detection of non-communicable diseases and digital integration. Regional Air Safety: Jordan’s Civil Aviation Regulatory Commission said air traffic and airports are operating normally despite regional escalation, urging travellers to check schedules with airlines. King’s Accession: Jordan marks the 27th anniversary of King Abdullah II’s accession on Tuesday, with royal statements highlighting resilience, development and job creation. Economy Watch: Foreign reserves rose to $27.18b in May, up from $27.05b in April, with coverage of about 9.5 months of imports. Gaza Aid: KSrelief said it delivered 24,500 meals to Palestinians in central and southern Gaza, citing a central kitchen in Gaza since February. World Cup Focus: Colombia beat Jordan 2-0 in a warm-up as Jordan prepare for their Group J opener against Austria on June 16.

Regional Security: Jordan activated air-raid sirens after reports of missiles breaching Jordanian airspace amid renewed Iran-Israel escalation; the Government said the Jordan Armed Forces were monitoring closely and warned the Kingdom would not be used as a battlefield, while the Civil Aviation Regulatory Commission insisted air traffic and airport operations are continuing normally and urged travellers to rely on official updates. Royal Anniversary: King Abdullah marks the 27th anniversary of his Accession to the Throne, with royal remarks stressing the economy’s ability to withstand and overcome crises and calling for continued implementation of the Economic Modernisation Vision. Travel Disruption: Airlines continue suspending or limiting Middle East routes due to airspace risk, with European carriers still pulling back on destinations including Dubai and Amman, even as some routes begin to return. Public Holiday: The government confirmed June 16 as an official public holiday for Hijri New Year. Social Support: Al Aman Fund for the Future of Orphans signed a partnership with NSS to support orphaned youth with education and living assistance. Business & Finance: The EU and EIB launched a €400m facility to support Palestinian small businesses via local banks. Energy & Resources (Opinion): A Jordanian energy expert said the Kingdom has major untapped gas, oil shale and mineral potential that—if developed—could boost state revenues and reduce public debt.

Regional Security: Warning sirens sounded across Jordan after reports of Iranian missile launches toward Israel, with the government saying Jordan’s airspace was breached and reiterating it “will not allow” the kingdom to be used as a battleground; the Public Security Directorate also reissued safety guidance on unidentified objects and how to respond during siren alerts. Court & Crime: Jordan’s State Security Court sentenced a man to death for killing three anti-narcotics officers during a March raid in Amman, with the ruling set for review by the Court of Cassation. Sports & Tech: The Jordan Football Association signed a partnership with Google naming Google Gemini as the national team’s AI technical sponsor, aiming to boost fan engagement ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Education: Qatar Foundation launched the Rasekh accreditation framework to align international education with Arabic language and local cultural context, rolling out an initial cohort of schools. Agriculture: Jordan’s National Agricultural Research Center reported promising wheat harvest results, including high-yield research varieties supporting food security. Public Life: An official holiday was announced for June 16 to mark Hijri New Year.

Aviation & Jobs: Joramco Academy is now accepting applications for its Aircraft Maintenance programme, a four-year hybrid track starting in October with two years of theory followed by two years of hands-on training, aiming to prepare graduates for EASA and CARC licensing and potential first employment at Joramco. Markets: The Amman Stock Exchange saw JOD 18.2 million in trading volume, while the general index slipped 0.57% to 4,007 points. Regional Diplomacy: Prime Minister Jafar Hassan met Iraqi Parliament Speaker Haibat Al Halbousi, reaffirming strong Amman-Baghdad ties and pushing cooperation in energy, electricity, trade and investment. Royal Engagement: King Abdullah also received Halbousi, urging efforts to consolidate the US-Iran ceasefire and warning against attempts to change realities in Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza. Security & Condemnations: Jordan condemned an Israeli strike that killed Lebanese Army personnel, calling it a breach of international law and urging full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701. Tourism Confidence: Jordan’s Ministry of Tourism welcomed the UK’s updated travel advisory, saying it boosts confidence in Jordan as a safe destination. Humanitarian Aid: Qatar Red Crescent Society’s Eid Al-Adha Sacrifice campaign reached 247,344 beneficiaries across Qatar and 13 countries, including Jordan and Palestine/Gaza. World Cup Build-up: Prince Ali said Jordan’s World Cup qualification reflects more than two decades of youth development, with Mousa Tamari highlighted as a model of the system’s success.

Gulf Tensions: Jordan condemned fresh Iranian missile and drone attacks on Bahrain and Kuwait, calling them a “flagrant” violation of sovereignty and a dangerous escalation that threatens regional stability. Lebanon Front: Jordan also condemned an Israeli strike on a Lebanese Army patrol, reiterating support for Lebanon’s sovereignty and the full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701. Tourism Boost: The UK updated its travel advisory, reclassifying most of Jordan as safe; Jordan’s Tourism Ministry said it should boost European confidence and help the sector recover. Jerash Festival Prep: Culture Minister Mustafa Rawashdeh inspected preparations for the 40th Jerash Festival, urging top-standard logistics and stronger media coverage ahead of the July launch. World Cup Momentum: JFA President Prince Ali said Jordan’s 2026 World Cup qualification is the result of more than two decades of youth development, highlighting Mousa Tamari as a model. Trade & Industry: Jordan’s industrial exports rose 2.6% in Q1 2026 to JD2.027bn, while Amman Chamber of Commerce certificates of origin hit JD624m in five months.

World Cup Spotlight: Jordan’s Mousa Al Tamari is set to chase a World Cup dream as the national team prepares for its first finals appearance, with Prince Ali bin Al Hussein telling CNN Jordan will play “for the enjoyment of the game” despite injuries. Foreign Affairs: Jordan condemned Iranian attacks on Bahrain and Kuwait as a “flagrant” breach of sovereignty and a dangerous escalation, reaffirming solidarity with both Gulf states. Tourism Boost: Jordan’s Tourism Ministry welcomed the UK’s updated travel advisory, saying most of the country is now classified as safe and expected to lift confidence for European visitors. Business & Trade: The Amman Chamber of Commerce reported exports routed through certificates of origin hit 624 million dinars in the first five months of 2026, up 24.1% year-on-year. Arts & Culture: Palestinian-Jordanian artist Zeyne and Greek-Sudanese star Marina Satti released the collaborative single “A’ti,” exploring love, distance and emotional imbalance. Sports Economy: TicketData says resale prices for Arab teams vary widely, with Jordan averaging about $456 for matches.

Labour Policy: Jordan will suspend recruitment of non-Jordanians across most sectors starting June 1, with key exceptions including domestic workers, garment and textile, and roles tied to development zones, QIZs and free zones, as unemployment falls to 16% in Q1 2026. Regional Diplomacy: Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi and Saudi counterpart Prince Faisal bin Farhan condemned “treacherous Iranian attacks” on Bahrain and Kuwait and urged de-escalation, while also discussing deeper Jordan-Saudi cooperation. Judicial Cooperation: Saudi Arabia’s ambassador visited the Jordan Judicial Institute, praising its training role for judges and its regional standing. Finance Watch: The Central Bank of Jordan issued JD100m in treasury bonds for 2026, with a June 7, 2036 maturity. Food Security: Jordan’s food self-sufficiency rose to 61.4% in 2024, up from 57.3% in 2020, though wheat and fish remain heavily import-dependent. World Cup Build-Up: Jordan’s historic 2026 World Cup debut continues to draw attention as preparations face injuries to key players.

Air Travel Disruption: British Airways says Middle East airspace uncertainty has forced it to cancel/suspend flights to Dubai, Amman, Bahrain, Doha, Abu Dhabi, Tel Aviv and Riyadh, with Dubai and three other routes pushed to restart only after summer—targeting Oct. 25. Labour Market Policy: Jordan’s Labour Ministry has suspended recruitment of non-Jordanians across most sectors from June 1, with exemptions for domestic work, garment/textiles, and some high-skilled roles. Food Security: Jordan’s food self-sufficiency rose to 61.4% in 2024 (up from 57.3% in 2020), driven by surpluses in vegetables and some livestock, while wheat and seafood remain heavily import-dependent. Regional Diplomacy: Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi urged cementing Lebanon’s ceasefire and backing state control of weapons, while also coordinating with Saudi Arabia and condemning attacks on Bahrain and Kuwait. World Cup Fever: Jordan’s historic 2026 World Cup run stays in the spotlight, with Jordan Ahli Bank launching the “Falak Al Fouz” song celebrating Al Nashama’s qualification. Holy Sites: Jordan and partners continue to push back on changes to Jerusalem’s Al-Aqsa status quo amid renewed international concern.

Green Investment Push: ABJ CEO Dr Maher Al Mahrouq urged Qatari investors to back Jordan’s green economy push, pointing to renewable energy, sustainable transport, circular economy and low-emission infrastructure as key pillars of the 2023-2033 modernization vision. Lebanon Ceasefire & UNIFIL: Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi called for cementing Lebanon’s ceasefire and keeping weapons with state authorities, while Jordan also condemned an attack on a UNIFIL position that killed a Serbian peacekeeper and injured two others. Security Ties with Kuwait & Saudi: Kuwait and Jordan reviewed regional security and defense cooperation in high-level meetings, and Jordan’s Safadi also spoke with Saudi FM Prince Faisal bin Farhan, condemning Iranian attacks on Bahrain and Kuwait. Labour Market Move: The Labour Ministry suspended recruitment of non-Jordanians across most sectors from June 1, with exemptions for areas like domestic work, textiles, and certain high-skilled roles. Food Security Update: Jordan’s food self-sufficiency rose to 61.4% in 2024, up from 57.3% in 2020, driven by surpluses in vegetables, milk and eggs, while wheat and other staples still rely heavily on imports. Air Travel Disruption: British Airways extended flight cancellations to Amman and other Middle East destinations until at least October 25 due to ongoing regional turmoil. ASE Connectivity: BHM Capital activated access to Amman Stock Exchange trading via ADX’s Tabadul platform, boosting cross-border investment links. Humanitarian Aid to Lebanon: JHCO sent a new 28-truck aid convoy to Lebanon with WFP support, bringing Jordan’s total to 130 trucks.