Jordanian King and UK Foreign Secretary Discuss Gaza Ceasefire
LONDON: King Abdullah II of Jordan and UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper met in Amman to emphasize the urgency of increasing humanitarian assistance to the Gaza Strip and ensuring the full execution of the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
Focus on Bilateral Cooperation
The meeting, which included Crown Prince Hussein, focused on strengthening cooperation in trade, industry, and defense between Jordan and the United Kingdom.
Warnings and Regional Concerns
King Abdullah cautioned against dangerous escalations targeting Palestinians in the occupied West Bank and violations of Muslim and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem.
According to the Petra news agency, he also underlined the importance of supporting Syria and Lebanon to uphold their security, stability, and territorial integrity.
Recognition of Palestinian Statehood
King Abdullah praised the UK’s September decision to recognize Palestinian statehood as a step toward achieving lasting peace in the region.
Attendees and Military Dialogue
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi and Alaa Batayneh, Director of the Office of His Majesty, were among those present at the meeting.
In a separate session in Amman on Tuesday, Maj. Yousef Huneiti, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, engaged in discussions on military cooperation with Vice Adm. Edward Ahlgren, the UK’s senior defense adviser for the Middle East and North Africa.
Author’s Summary
King Abdullah II and UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper reinforced diplomatic and defense ties while urging humanitarian action and respect for the Gaza ceasefire.