Sun Sep 15 16:44:00 UTC 2024: ## King Abdullah II Appoints New Prime Minister, Calls for Support for Palestinians Amidst Islamist Gains

Amman, Jordan – King Abdullah II of Jordan has appointed Jafar Hassan as the country’s new prime minister, replacing outgoing Prime Minister Bisher Khasawneh. The appointment comes after a recent parliamentary election saw a significant gain by the Islamist opposition, with the Islamic Action Front (IAF) winning 31 seats, making it the largest party in the lower house.

Hassan, a veteran politician who previously served as planning minister and the King’s chief-of-staff, is tasked with forming a new government. King Abdullah, who holds significant power in Jordan, has urged Hassan to prioritize support for Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, West Bank, and Jerusalem, calling for “mobilizing all efforts” to protect them.

The appointment comes amidst heightened tensions following the recent war in Gaza, which has impacted Jordan’s economy and tourism industry. The IAF, an offshoot of the Muslim Brotherhood, benefited from public anger over the conflict and frustration with economic hardship, as voter turnout in the election was a low 32%.

While Jordan maintains diplomatic relations with Israel, the public remains sympathetic towards Palestinians, with nearly half of the Jordanian population being of Palestinian origin. The King’s call for support highlights the delicate balance Jordan faces between its strategic partnership with Israel and the strong public sentiment for Palestinian rights.

Hassan’s new government will face the challenge of navigating this complex political landscape while also addressing Jordan’s economic woes, including a public debt of over $50 billion. The new government will need to work closely with international partners, including the United States and the International Monetary Fund, to implement reforms and address the country’s economic challenges.

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