Jordan’s King Abdullah II told U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio that a deal was needed to comprehensively reduce regional tensions.
During the phone call on Friday, October 2, the two discussed efforts to lower tensions in the region and ways to strengthen the strategic partnership between Jordan and the United States. Abdullah also highlighted the critical role of the United States in efforts to promote regional stability.
The Jordanian king stressed that a comprehensive de-escalation deal should protect the security and sovereignty of Arab countries.
Washington–Tehran tensions
The call with Rubio took place as tensions between Washington and Tehran escalated following U.S. attacks on sites in Iran. Iran said the attacks targeted U.S. military facilities and equipment in Arab countries.
Jordan and the United States signed a memorandum of understanding in mid-June. Negotiations on the agreement subsequently stalled.
Syria and Lebanon on the agenda
Abdullah warned about the potential consequences of Israel’s escalation in southern Syria. He reiterated Jordan’s support for efforts to strengthen Syria’s security, stability and territorial sovereignty.
Abdullah also referred to the outcomes of the latest round of meetings of the Aqaba Process, held in France on September 17. The meetings addressed increasing international support for the Lebanese army and enabling it to fulfill its responsibilities to protect the country’s security and stability.
Launched in 2015 at Abdullah’s initiative, the Aqaba Process aims to strengthen coordination, cooperation and the exchange of expertise among regional and international partners in the fight against terrorism and extremism.
The U.S. State Department also said the meeting addressed implementation of the tripartite framework agreement in Lebanon, the disarmament of Hezbollah and support for stability in Syria. The department said Rubio thanked King Abdullah for his contribution to strengthening regional security. Lebanon and Israel signed an initial agreement in Washington on June 26 under U.S. mediation. The agreement calls for the Lebanese army to restore control in pilot areas in the south, while the withdrawal of Israeli forces from those areas is conditional on the disarmament of Hezbollah and other armed groups.
