‘Exactly what Iran intended’: Some Jordanians buckle under missile pressure, demand US withdrawal

An open letter signed by hundreds of Jordanian political and legal figures is demanding the withdrawal of US forces from Jordan, a move Professor Ronen Yitzhak describes as “exactly what Iran intended” when it launched missiles at the region. Yitzhak states that Iran aims to “sow discord within Jordan and create governmental chaos in order to expand Iranian influence.” The letter claims that the US military presence, which includes approximately 4,000 American troops and substantial aid, “exposes Jordan to security, political, and economic risks.” While the US-Jordanian relationship has been beneficial, regional escalation has impacted Jordan's economy, with tourism revenue declining. However, Yitzhak believes King Abdullah's strategic approach and sovereignty make it unlikely he will alter Jordanian policy towards the West.