Thu Sep 12 01:09:00 UTC 2024: ## Islamist Party Wins Big in Jordanian Elections, Fueled by Anger Over Israel-Hamas War
**Amman, Jordan** – The Islamic Action Front (IAF), the political arm of Jordan’s Muslim Brotherhood, has emerged as the largest bloc in parliament following the recent elections. The party secured 31 out of 138 seats, capitalizing on public anger over Israel’s war against Hamas in Gaza.
This is the IAF’s best electoral performance since 1989, when they won 22 seats. The party’s success is attributed to their strong stance in support of Hamas and their calls to overturn the 1994 peace treaty with Israel.
The election results reflect the deep sympathy for Palestinians held by Jordan’s largely Palestinian population, despite the kingdom’s strong alliance with the US and diplomatic relations with Israel.
The IAF has actively organized large-scale pro-Hamas demonstrations and positioned themselves as champions of the Palestinian cause. This stance resonated with voters, who are increasingly disillusioned by Jordan’s economic woes, including high unemployment and public debt.
The election, the first under a revised electoral law, allocated 41 seats to political parties for the first time, aiming to moderate the influence of tribal leaders and boost party-based politics. However, voter turnout was only 32%, highlighting a potential lack of public trust in the political system.
Despite the IAF’s victory, King Abdullah II remains the ultimate decision-maker in Jordan. The new parliament will play a significant role in passing legislation and legitimizing the political system, especially amidst regional tensions.
The IAF’s leader, Wael al-Saqqa, has stated that the party intends to increase financial support for Hamas and work towards a free Palestinian state.
The election results signal a shift in Jordan’s political landscape, with the IAF now holding significant influence. How this will affect Jordan’s relations with both Israel and the US remains to be seen.
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