AGP Executive Report

Jordan-Iran Escalation: Jordan says it intercepted and shot down five Iranian missiles as the U.S. and Iran traded “heavy wave” strikes, with Iran also claiming attacks on U.S. assets and the IRGC reporting casualties. Regional Shipping Risk: A drone attack near Egypt’s Damietta port sparked fires on gas vessels, raising fresh worries for navigation around the Suez Canal as the wider conflict spreads. Diplomacy Under Strain: Pakistan says U.S.-Iran talks are ongoing, but Iran rejected proposals tied to Strait of Hormuz management, while Qatar condemned renewed Iranian attacks on Jordan and Kuwait. Local Impact: Royal Jordanian reported a JD 1.4m net profit in the first half of 2026, blaming higher fuel costs and regional disruptions, though government aid helped cushion losses. Cybersecurity Capacity: Canada’s Willis College announced a DND-funded cybersecurity training partnership for Jordan’s Armed Forces, building a self-sustaining defence training hub at Al-Hussein Technical University. Aviation/Defense Claims: The U.S. denied Iranian media claims that F-35 jets were destroyed at Jordan’s Al-Azraq base.

US-Iran Escalation: The US launched a “heavy wave” of strikes on Iran after Iran’s missile attack on a US base in Jordan, with CENTCOM saying it hit dozens of IRGC targets including command centres, missile/drone sites and coastal defence capabilities; Jordan Security: Jordan said it intercepted five Iranian missiles with no casualties, while Amman’s diplomacy continued as Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi called Bahrain and Kuwait to stress restoring calm, maintaining the US-Iran ceasefire and coordinating against Iranian attacks; Regional Spillover: The conflict also widened through joint US-Saudi strikes on Iran-backed militias in Iraq and drone-related fires reported at Egypt’s Damietta port involving US-linked shipping; Markets & Travel: Oil prices swung sharply on renewed Gulf tensions, and airlines kept suspending or rerouting flights across the region; Local Life: Separate from the war, Jordan-linked readers also saw practical updates like closures from a water outage in Forsyth County and ongoing regional planning efforts.

Middle East Escalation: Iran launched ballistic missiles toward U.S. forces in Jordan, and CENTCOM said all were intercepted; Trump vowed a “hard” response, while U.S.-Saudi strikes hit Iran-backed militias in Iraq, killing at least 20 fighters and raising fears the fragile lull is over. Energy & Markets: Oil jumped sharply above $90 a barrel as the renewed fighting flared, with Strait of Hormuz tensions also in focus. Jordan’s Role in the Conflict: Multiple reports point to Jordan as a frontline in the wider U.S.-Iran confrontation, with Iran claiming attacks on U.S. bases and Washington warning of further action. Local Economy Watch: Jordan Petroleum Refinery Company said it is still working with ministries to settle government gas subsidy amounts, including about JOD 80 million allocated in the 2026 budget. Industrial Policy: Jordan’s Ministry of Industry said it is pushing ahead with industrial policy projects 2024–2028, including energy-efficiency steps for major plants. Trade & Investment: Jordan was listed among participants in METAS 2026 in Sharjah, with 51 companies from China, UAE and Jordan set to exhibit August 3–5.

US-Iran Escalation in the Region: Jordan says its air defences intercepted and destroyed five missiles launched from Iran early Wednesday, as the US Central Command reported all Iranian ballistic missiles were intercepted in an “attempted surprise attack” aimed at US forces. US-Saudi Strikes in Iraq: The US and Saudi Arabia carried out coordinated air strikes on Iran-backed militia sites in eastern Iraq, citing drone attacks on Saudi oil facilities and warning proxies to stop. Hormuz Diplomacy Under Strain: Oman is pushing a new Strait of Hormuz arrangement, including a voluntary fee idea, but Iran has rejected the latest proposal to share control, keeping shipping and oil-route risks in focus. Jordan Diplomacy: Qatar and Jordan’s top diplomats discussed bilateral ties and regional de-escalation, stressing adherence to the US-Iran understandings and freedom of navigation through Hormuz. Local Angle: Jordan’s airspace and security remain central as regional missile and drone activity continues, with Jordan repeatedly named in the latest exchange.

Jordan Digital Health: Crown Prince Hussein chaired the National Council for Future Technology, urging deeper integration of hospitals and health centres into the Jordan Digital Health Centre network, as the Ministry of Health highlighted telemedicine links to hospitals and centres and tens of thousands of teleradiology reports. Regional Diplomacy: Qatar condemned renewed attacks on Jordan as a breach of sovereignty and UN law, while Jordan and Qatar also discussed regional efforts to reduce escalation and back dialogue tied to US-Iran understandings on Hormuz. UNRWA Raid: Jordan condemned an Israeli raid on the UNRWA Kalandia Training Centre in East Jerusalem as a “flagrant” violation of international law and UN agency immunities. Security Tensions: Iraq ordered an investigation into Saudi claims that drones were launched from Iraqi territory, stressing it will not allow its land to be used for attacks. Local Economy & Culture: Amman promoted school-based waste management in West Sumbawa under a circular-economy program, and Jordan’s tourism community initiative in Al-Shoubak highlighted heritage revival through a restored heritage house.

US-Iran Diplomacy Watch: Trump says the US is having “good talks” with Tehran and a deal is possible, but warns strikes could resume if negotiations fail; Iran says messages are still moving via mediators and denies direct talks. Regional Security: Despite the pause, Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Iraq reported drone attacks, with Riyadh blaming Iran-backed militias and Jordan reporting an intercepted drone near the border. Hormuz Tensions: Yemen’s Houthis say they’re targeting Saudi oil logistics, while Iran insists it controls Strait of Hormuz—raising fears of a wider maritime chokehold. Jordan-Iraq Trade: Iraq’s trade minister met the Jordanian ambassador to discuss convening an Iraqi-Jordanian economic committee in Baghdad and boosting Jordan’s role in the Baghdad International Fair. Road Safety in Jordan: UNITAR and FIA launched the Safe Mobility 4 All & 4 Life programme for MENA, including Jordan, to support local road-safety projects and training. Local Tech & Alerts: Jordan began testing a national mobile emergency alert system, as drones and regional tensions keep security on the agenda.

West Bank Violence: Israel’s raids and settler attacks intensified across the occupied West Bank, with UN figures citing 1,111 Palestinian deaths (including 243 children) since the start of 2026 and record settler violence; in Nablus and nearby areas, mass arrests and road closures left families trapped and medics obstructed. Jordan Security & Diplomacy: Jordan condemned attempted drone attacks on Saudi oil facilities launched from Iraqi territory, stressing sovereignty and backing Saudi measures; separately, Jordan said it shot down two drones amid the wider US-Iran pause and regional drone activity. US-Iran Tensions: Trump warned strikes could resume with “very strong military action” if diplomacy fails, while mediators reported progress toward renewed talks as attacks remained paused. Jordan Digital Services: Crown Prince Hussein urged faster completion of the Civil Status and Passports digital transition, noting a sharp rise in e-service use. Transport Planning: Government reviewed plans for a 1,000-space electronic “park and ride” linked to Jordan Street, Airport Road and future BRT lines. Tourism & Culture: Jordan saw overnight tourist arrivals rise to 491,788 in June, and Jerash’s 40th festival expanded with tech-driven sound-and-light and a week of poetry evenings. Economy: Industrial exports grew 8.2% in the first five months, reaching JD 3.668 billion.

Jordan Emergency Alerts: Jordan’s National Centre for Security and Crisis Management will run tests starting Monday on a national emergency mobile alert system across most governorates, in Arabic and English, with a distinctive warning tone; officials say the public should not be alarmed. UNESCO Spotlight on Aqaba: Jordan’s Aqaba Marine Reserve has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, praised for its coral reefs, marine biodiversity and heat-resilient ecosystems. US-Iran Pause, Diplomacy in Focus: The US and Iran have paused strikes for a second straight day, with both sides saying talks are getting “room” for an interim ceasefire, while Iran says conditions for negotiations are still missing. Strait of Hormuz Pressure on Markets: The lull has eased oil prices, with investors watching potential Hormuz management talks and the risk of renewed disruption to shipping routes. Pentagon Casualty Counting Row: US officials face new criticism after four troops killed in renewed fighting were moved out of the official Iran war death toll into a separate “Overseas Operations” category. Regional Security Signals: Iran says it is exchanging messages with Washington but prioritizes defending sovereignty, while also warning against threats to the Strait of Hormuz.

Middle East De-escalation: The U.S. paused attacks on Iran for a second straight day, and Tehran said it also halted strikes, as talks continue toward an interim ceasefire and Oman–Iran discussions focus on safe shipping management in the Strait of Hormuz. Jordan Energy Push: Energy Minister Saleh Al-Kharabsheh said Risha gas output is expected to reach about 418 million cubic feet per day by 2029, exceeding Jordan’s grid demand, while the ministry plans to connect natural gas to industrial clusters within three years via pipelines and CNG supply. Trade & Investment Links: Jordan’s Chamber of Commerce chief Khalil Al-Hajj Tawfiq met ABCC Secretary General Rita Massoud to map a joint work program with the UK, aiming to move from meetings to execution and boost Jordanian firms’ presence in Britain. Refugee Aid Pressure: WFP says food assistance for about 83,000 Syrian refugees in Jordan’s host communities has been cut due to a funding shortage, with reduced support continuing for camp residents. Local Digital Services: The Digital Economy Ministry rolled out new updates to the “Sanad” app, adding features like smart passport photo verification and expanded government services.

Jordan-Iraq Trade: Jordan’s imports from Iraq plunged over 60% in the first five months of 2026, falling to JD 32 million (from JD 81 million in 2025), while exports to Iraq stayed almost flat at about JD 381 million. UNESCO & Environment: Jordan celebrated the Aqaba Marine Reserve’s UNESCO World Heritage inscription, highlighting its coral biodiversity and climate resilience. US-Iran Tensions: Reports say Trump paused plans for a wider Iran strike after Pentagon warnings that Patriot interceptor shortages could endanger US troops and Gulf partners. Regional Security Claims: Iran says its strikes have hit about 150 US-linked military sites in the Persian Gulf, while Ukraine alleges Russia provided satellite imagery of US bases to Iran. Local Spotlight: Amman also saw coverage of Jordanian efforts and updates ranging from trade cooperation to travel advisories amid Middle East disruption.

UNESCO Spotlight: Jordan’s Aqaba Marine Reserve has been added to the UNESCO World Heritage List, with the designation citing its rich marine biodiversity and heat-resilient coral reefs. Road Safety: Jordan extended condolences to Syria after a deadly Deir ez-Zor–Damascus highway crash, where Syrian reports put deaths at dozens. Food Security: Jordan’s local wheat and barley harvest hit about 110,000 tonnes received so far, the biggest in nearly 15 years, with total deliveries expected to rise to 130,000–140,000 tonnes. Trade Boost: Jordan says garment and knitted exports to the U.S. will enter duty-free under a reciprocal agreement, with other Jordanian goods capped at 10% tariffs. Economy Watch: Central Bank data shows Jordan’s insurance premiums rose 8.8% to nearly JD 418m in Jan–May 2026, alongside higher claims and fewer customer complaints. Regional Tensions: Jordan condemned escalating settler attacks in the West Bank, urging accountability and renewed protection for Palestinians.

US-Iran Escalation: Trump said Iran is showing its “most serious” commitment in talks, but he hasn’t decided on major strikes; meanwhile the US and Iran traded more attacks for a 13th straight night, with US forces firing on a merchant vessel trying to breach Iran-port blockades and Iran targeting US positions across the Gulf. Regional Spillover: Jordan, Bahrain and Kuwait reported interceptions and drone/missile activity as the Strait of Hormuz and Red Sea shipping risks pushed oil above $100. Diplomacy Stalls: Iran rejected a renewed US ceasefire proposal delivered via Iraq’s PM, with Tehran insisting any deal must address Hormuz control. Jordan-US Angle: Jordan denied any evacuation order for Aqaba’s airport and seaport after US embassy warnings, as the wider war raised concerns for Americans in the region. Trade Pressure: The US imposed new forced-labor tariffs on 60 economies (10% or 12.5%), including Jordan, as part of Section 301 enforcement.

US-Iran Escalation and Jordan’s Role: The U.S. completed its 13th straight night of strikes on Iran, while Iran and its allies claimed new drone and missile attacks on U.S. facilities in Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan, as Washington warned it may hit “bridges or power plants” if attacks on Hormuz shipping continue. Regional Diplomacy: Egypt backed a GCC-Jordan joint statement condemning Iranian attacks and reaffirming Arab states’ right to protect sovereignty and navigation. Local Security Signals: Jordan’s government spokesman denied any evacuation orders for Aqaba airport and seaport after a U.S. embassy warning, as the dispute added to public uncertainty. Trade Shock with Jordan on the List: Under Trump’s Section 301 forced-labor tariffs, Jordan is among countries facing a 10% duty, after the U.S. said it found gaps in forced-labor enforcement. Consular Cooperation: UAE and Jordan signed an MoU to set up a Joint Consular Committee to improve services for citizens abroad. Investigation Link: Irish Gardaí sent detectives to Jordan in the Jamey Carney murder case to coordinate with local authorities over the suspect’s detention and possible extradition.

Red Sea Escalation: Yemen’s Houthis said they attacked two Saudi oil tankers, while the US carried out its 13th straight night of strikes on Iran; Trump warned of “major military punishment” and said damages to shipping would be paid for using frozen Iranian assets, as Brent crude surged past $100 and fears grew of wider disruption. Gulf-Jordan Unity: Gulf states and Jordan backed a call for urgent UN action and reaffirmed the right to self-defense against Iranian attacks, warning they target ports, airports, energy and other civilian infrastructure. Local Impact Signals: Jordan reported intercepts of Iranian missiles near Aqaba amid heightened regional risk, while the US issued security alerts for Jordan. Trade Pressure: The US announced new Section 301 tariffs over forced-labour enforcement, with 10% or 12.5% duties on 60 economies; Sri Lanka’s additional 10% tariff takes effect today, and Jordan is listed among countries facing the measures. Regional Holy-Site Tensions: Eight Muslim-majority countries, including Jordan, condemned mass Israeli settler incursions into Al-Aqsa as illegal and extremist, calling for preservation of the historic status quo.

Jordan-US Regional Security: Jordan joined GCC states in condemning Iran’s continued attacks on civilian infrastructure, reaffirming the right to self-defense and urging urgent UN Security Council action. Holy Sites in Jerusalem: Jordan’s Foreign Ministry condemned Itamar Ben-Gvir’s incursion into Al-Aqsa Mosque, denouncing attacks on worshippers, provocative settler actions, and flag-raising inside the compound. Red Sea Oil Shock: Yemen’s Houthis said they attacked two Saudi oil tankers, raising fears of a wider disruption beyond the Strait of Hormuz; Brent pushed above $100 as the US carried out a 12th night of strikes on Iran. US War Powers Push: The US House narrowly passed a resolution to require congressional approval to halt further military action against Iran, with some Republicans joining Democrats as tensions escalate. Saudi Nuclear Deal: The White House said the Saudi nuclear cooperation agreement is contingent on Saudi joining the Abraham Accords. Local Jordan Economy: Jordan’s tourism and investment push continued, including Jerash festival cultural exchange coverage and new efforts to support sectors hit by regional instability.

US-Iran Escalation: The U.S. carried out a 12th straight night of strikes on Iran as President Donald Trump warned the U.S. will destroy one bridge or power plant each time Iran attacks a ship in the Strait of Hormuz, while Iran vowed “eye for an eye” retaliation and both sides increasingly targeted civilian infrastructure. Red Sea Shipping Risk: Yemen’s Houthis claimed they struck two Saudi oil tankers and imposed a naval blockade threat near Bab el-Mandeb, prompting tankers to reroute and raising fears of a second chokepoint for global oil supplies. Local Impact for Jordan: The conflict’s spillover continues to hit the region, with reports of missile activity reaching Jordan and renewed international travel warnings for nearby Gulf states. Jordan-US Trade: Amid the wider regional backdrop, coverage also highlighted Jordan welcoming a U.S. reciprocal trade agreement aimed at boosting bilateral economic ties and market access. UNHCR Funding Gap: UNHCR reported a $202 million funding shortfall for Jordan refugee operations, underscoring pressure on humanitarian services.