Hundreds of Jordanian Leaders Demand US Troop Withdrawal Amid Rising Iranian Attacks
In an unprecedented move revealed by The New York Times, hundreds of Jordanian politicians, legal experts, and tribal leaders have signed an open letter calling for the immediate removal of American forces from Jordan. This public rebellion comes as US military bases in the kingdom, hosting around 4,000 American troops, have become targets of repeated Iranian missile and drone attacks, sparking widespread public fear.
The letter challenges King Abdullah's security policies and threatens to disrupt the strategic alliance between Amman and Washington. Despite the government's efforts to censor and suppress the protest, including strict cyber laws and media blackouts, the letter circulated widely on social media. Signatories include former ministers, parliament members, and retired military officers, marking a rare and bold public dissent under Jordan's authoritarian regime.
The escalation follows the US military's redeployment of forces from the Persian Gulf to Jordan, turning the kingdom into a key logistical and operational hub amid heightened US-Iran tensions. Iranian strikes on bases such as Muwaffaq Salti Air Base have undermined public confidence and raised fears that Jordan is being dragged into a destructive regional conflict.
However, analysts believe the Jordanian government is unlikely to comply with the demand due to its heavy reliance on US economic and military support. The kingdom receives approximately $1.45 billion annually in aid, crucial for regime stability and national security, especially as a deterrent against Iran and its proxies.
Meanwhile, US Central Command continues intensive operations in the Gulf, including naval interdictions and air patrols, as part of a broader American blockade aimed at preventing arms shipments to pro-Iranian militias. The cancellation of a recent strike has raised questions about the future of US strategy in the Middle East. Regional capitals, including Jerusalem and Gulf states, are closely watching diplomatic developments amid fears of further escalation.
