A Historic Commitment to Prosperity and Security

For seven decades, the United States has been unwavering in its commitment to fostering prosperity and security for the people of Jordan. Since 1951, this commitment has translated into substantial assistance, with the U.S. providing more than $20 billion to support Jordan’s development and well-being and building US Jordan relationship

Renewed Commitment: A New Memorandum of Understanding

In a significant development this month, the United States and Jordan are set to reaffirm their commitment through the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This memorandum underscores the U.S.’s dedication, pledging almost $6.5 billion in assistance to Jordan over the next five years. This renewed commitment reflects a comprehensive approach aimed at addressing various aspects of Jordan’s growth and stability.

A Multifaceted Partnership: Impact Across Sectors

1. Security Cooperation: Fortifying US Jordan relationship Against Terrorism

In recent times, security collaboration between Jordan and the United States has seen notable advancements. Jordan received a significant boost with the acquisition of 12 Black Hawk helicopters from the United States in the last year. Additionally, joint military training endeavors have enabled Jordanian and U.S. military personnel to sharpen combat skills vital for combating terrorism and ensuring overall security and stability. The U.S. government’s Anti-Terrorism Assistance program has played a pivotal role, training over 7,150 Jordanian law enforcement personnel since 1987. US Jordan relationship

2. Economic Empowerment: Catalyzing Growth and Trade

The economic front has witnessed substantial strides, particularly since Jordan joined the World Trade Organization and signed the Jordan-U.S. Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Bilateral trade has surged by an impressive 800 percent, reflecting the success of this collaborative effort. The United States has not only supported $3.75 billion in U.S. Government loan guarantees but has also facilitated over $110 million in loans to small and medium-sized enterprises, resulting in job creation and economic growth. The impact is not only economic but extends to fostering entrepreneurship, with a particular emphasis on supporting women-owned businesses.

3. Healthcare Advancements: Improving Access and Infrastructure

U.S. assistance has played a pivotal role in revitalizing Jordan’s healthcare infrastructure. The renovation and modernization of 349 clinics and 25 public-sector hospital departments stand as a testament to the commitment to enhancing healthcare services for Jordanians. This support contributes significantly to the overall well-being of the population. US Jordan relationship

4. Educational Initiatives: Empowering Future Generations

Investment in education has been a cornerstone of the partnership. U.S. assistance in 2016 supported the creation of teaching and learning materials for early-grade reading and mathematics, benefiting over 8,000 teachers. The construction of 28 new schools and the expansion or renovation of 120 schools since 2002 have expanded educational opportunities, ultimately serving over 200,000 students.

5. Water Management: Addressing Scarcity Challenges

Recognizing the pressing issue of water scarcity, the United States, in collaboration with the Jordanian government, has been instrumental in improving fresh water and sanitation services for more than one-third of Jordan’s population. Initiatives since 2000 have focused on building and renovating critical infrastructure to increase the water supply and wastewater services for over 2 million people in northern Jordan. US Jordan relationship

A Tragic Incident: Mourning the Loss of U.S. Service Members

Amidst the backdrop of this enduring partnership, a tragic incident has unfolded, casting a shadow over recent events. On an unmanned aerial drone attack near the Syria border, three U.S. service members lost their lives, with more than 30 others sustaining injuries. The attack, carried out by Iranian-backed militant groups, marks the first U.S. deaths in months of strikes since the Israel-Hamas war began on October 7.

1. Details of the Attack

The drone, laden with explosives, struck a base in northeast Jordan, close to the Syria border. The targeted area included a shelter where some troops were sleeping, resulting in casualties and injuries. The injured personnel, numbering more than 30, required airlifting to hospitals for urgent medical attention. At present, the identity of the deceased troops is withheld pending notification of next of kin. US Jordan relationship

2. President Biden’s Response

In the immediate aftermath, President Joe Biden issued a statement, attributing the attack to “radical Iran-backed militant groups operating in Syria and Iraq.” The President emphasized that the U.S. is actively gathering facts regarding the attack. The incident underscores the complex geopolitical challenges faced by both nations in the volatile region.

Last night, three U.S. service members were killed, and many wounded, during an unmanned aerial drone attack on our forces stationed in northeast Jordan near the Syria border.

Jill and I join the families and friends of our fallen in grieving the loss of these warriors in this…

— President Biden (@POTUS) January 28, 2024

3. Former CIA Chief’s Perspective

A former CIA chief has characterized the attack on U.S. soldiers as a “dangerous escalation.” This perspective highlights the broader implications of such incidents, not only on the bilateral relationship but also on regional stability. US Jordan relationship

4. National Mourning and Reflection

President Biden acknowledged the heaviness in America’s heart, mourning the loss of three U.S. service members and expressing concern for the wounded. The incident adds a somber note to the longstanding partnership between the United States and Jordan, prompting both nations to reflect on the challenges posed by extremist elements in the region.

Ref: US Jordan Relationship