Jordan: Divided Views on Hezbollah Amidst Unified Opposition to Israeli Aggression
Jordanian citizens display mixed feelings about Hezbollah but exhibit a unified front against Israeli attacks on Lebanon. There is an anticipation of larger protests against Israeli aggression following the death of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, indicating a resurgence of public sentiment. The Jordanian government maintains diplomatic relations with Israel despite rising tensions and public outcry.
Recent events in Amman reveal a multifaceted sentiment among Jordanians regarding Hezbollah. While many individuals remain divided in their personal support for the Lebanese militant group, they collectively express solidarity with the Lebanese populace amidst escalating Israeli aggression. As public gatherings at relevant sites in Jordan have drawn smaller crowds recently, citizens anticipate that they will mobilize in larger numbers following the upcoming weekend prayers, particularly in light of the recent developments surrounding the death of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. The public sentiment encapsulates a sense of collective frustration and anguish that transcends individual political affiliations. Ahmed, a local shopkeeper, highlighted the subdued mood in central Amman, attributing it to the distress stemming from Israel’s military actions against Lebanon. Emphasizing the historical context, he noted that during the 2006 war between Israel and Hezbollah, there was widespread support for Hezbollah, a sentiment that has shifted somewhat due to the group’s involvement in Syria. Despite this, demonstrations continue to arise with pro-Hezbollah sentiments alongside broader Israeli condemnation. A range of perspectives emerged from individuals like Hussein Amer and Mohammed Telwiy. Amer, possessing a mixed Jordanian-Palestinian background, indicated that the upcoming protests would center less on Hezbollah itself and more on Israel’s broader actions within the region. Meanwhile, Telwiy affirmed solidarity with both Hezbollah and the Lebanese citizens, remarking on a growing collective anger towards Israeli military tactics. The Jordanian government faces a political tension, having criticized Israel’s operations at the UN while also upholding diplomatic relations. The Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi called for decisive action against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s policies in his public statements, suggesting that continued aggression may have wider regional implications. Notably, there remains a strong awareness of regional dynamics in Jordan, as evidenced by concerns about the safety and security of neighboring countries threatened by Israeli incursions. As protests become increasingly likely, the overarching sentiment reflects a united front against Israeli military campaigns, regardless of diverse opinions on Hezbollah itself.
The backdrop of these developments involves the ongoing Israeli military actions across various Arab nations, including Lebanon and Gaza. These events, compounded by historical tensions, have shaped the political landscape in Jordan. The country has maintained diplomatic ties with Israel while simultaneously supporting Palestinian and Lebanese rights. Following the death of Hezbollah’s leader, the emotional climate among Jordanians has shifted, prompting discussions about regional solidarity and collective reactions to perceived aggressions by Israeli forces. Historical alignments, particularly regarding past conflicts involving Hezbollah and popular support, remain crucial to understanding current public sentiments and potential future mobilizations.
In conclusion, the sentiment in Jordan regarding Hezbollah manifests a complex interplay of support, condemnation, and solidarity. While Jordanians are divided on the group itself, there exists a prevailing unity against perceived Israeli aggression, demonstrating the significant impact of regional dynamics on domestic opinions. The public’s reaction, particularly in the face of tragedy and conflict, emphasizes a collective desire for justice and peace in a tumultuous geopolitical landscape.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
