Jordanian public views on Hezbollah are divided; however, there is a strong communal response against Israeli military actions in Lebanon. While some support Hezbollah, many express solidarity with the Lebanese populace amid rising tensions. Anticipated protests could reflect this dichotomy, as the government navigates a delicate political landscape regarding its stance on Israel.
In Jordan, public sentiment regarding Hezbollah remains mixed yet there exists a notable sense of solidarity against Israeli military actions in Lebanon. Over the recent weekend, a remarkable calm settled around al-Husseini Mosque in downtown Amman, a location typically characterized by high levels of pro-Palestinian activism since the onset of Israel’s offensive in Gaza. Ahmed, a local bookkeeper, remarked that this tranquility was a consequence of the distress and despair felt by Jordanians in light of Israel’s recent strikes on Lebanon and the subsequent death of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. However, as another weekend approaches, he anticipates a resurgence of protests fueled by rising anger and frustration. The recent address from Hezbollah’s newly appointed deputy chief, Naim Qassem, has instilled a degree of optimism among Jordanians who view Hezbollah as a resilient group. Reflecting on the sentiments during the 2006 war between Israel and Hezbollah, Ahmed observed that a significant portion of the Jordanian populace previously rallied behind the group. Despite Hezbollah’s alignment with the Syrian government in the ongoing civil war, which has soured some local support, there remains a fervent segment of pro-Hezbollah demonstrators shining a light on their right to protest Israel’s aggression. Hussein Amer, a young professional, voiced that the anticipated protests this Friday are less about Hezbollah itself and more a direct response to Israel’s actions throughout the region. He emphasized the impact of the war in Gaza on his community and noted that recent developments in Lebanon appear to have rekindled the spirit of dissent in the capital. Another protestor, Mohammed Telwiy, a student, expressed a similar sentiment, citing that while many may not overtly support Hezbollah, they stand in solidarity with Lebanese civilians enduring Israeli assaults. He conveyed a palpable sense of anger prevalent in Jordan as many perceive these attacks as indicative of a broader Israeli military campaign against Arab nations. Omer Yaseen, an optician from a refugee camp, described the diverse opinions surrounding Hezbollah, while illuminating a prevailing consensus condemning Israel’s methodical killings of innocents and perceived expansionist ambitions in Lebanon and Syria. Jordan’s official stance, as articulated by Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi during a UN Security Council meeting, condemned Israel’s actions, holding it accountable for the fallout of its military aggression. However, the Jordanian government must navigate a delicate political landscape, advocating for a ceasefire and extending humanitarian aid to Gaza while maintaining diplomatic relations with Israel—a stance that has, understandably, incited frustration among the populace, particularly among those of Palestinian descent. In light of recent escalations, the Jordanian Armed Forces reported an incident in which a rocket from southern Lebanon landed in an uninhabited region within Jordan, emphasizing their readiness to respond to potential threats to their airspace.
The article discusses the current state of public opinion in Jordan regarding Hezbollah amidst rising tensions between Israel and Lebanon. Recent events, including Israeli military strikes and the death of Hezbollah’s leader, have led to a complicated public sentiment characterized by solidarity against Israeli aggression while views on Hezbollah itself vary significantly. Jordanians often express strong sentiments about regional conflicts involving Israel, particularly due to the historical and ongoing struggles faced by Palestinians.
In summary, public opinion in Jordan on Hezbollah reveals a society grappling with complex regional dynamics. While support for Hezbollah may be fragmented due to past controversies, there is a unifying condemnation of Israeli military actions against Lebanon. As protests are anticipated, the Jordanian government’s balancing act between advocating humanitarian efforts and maintaining diplomatic ties with Israel continues to evoke a robust public response.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
