Jordan's King Abdullah joins Gaza aid airdrop mission

Jordan's King Abdullah II recently participated in an airdrop of humanitarian aid to Gaza, as reported by Jordanian broadcaster Al-Mamlaka.

In a video, the monarch was seen in military attire aboard a plane, part of the ongoing efforts by the Jordanian Air Force to deliver urgent medical supplies to field hospitals in the conflict-ridden territory.

The most recent airdrop occurred on February 6, according to official media sources.

Jordan stands out as the sole country conducting such airdrops, directing aid through two medical facilities.

These missions, totalling 11 thus far, have included collaborations with the French and Dutch air forces to ensure the delivery of essential medical aid.

Amidst escalating tensions, King Abdullah, a vocal advocate for ending Israel's offensive campaign, embarked on a tour of major Western capitals.

Immediate ceasefire

He is scheduled to meet with US President Joe Biden in Washington on Monday and aims to lobby for an immediate ceasefire.

The two leaders are expected to discuss the ongoing effort to free hostages held in Gaza, and growing concern over a possible Israeli military offensive in the port city of Rafah.

It will be the first time Abdullah and Biden have met since the October 7 attack.

Jordan's diplomatic efforts have yielded results, including persuading Israel to allow the World Food Programme (WFP) to send deliveries to Gaza via a land route originating from Jordan.

This move helps alleviate pressure on the main Rafah border crossing, which has limited capacity.

Given its proximity to the West Bank, Jordan remains wary of the potential spillover of the Gaza conflict, fearing widespread violence and a potential large-scale Palestinian exodus to its territory spurred by armed settlers encouraged by the Israeli army.

On Sunday, Jordan warned against potential Israeli military action in Rafah, an area in the southern Gaza Strip that is densely populated by Palestinian refugees.

Sufyan Qudah, spokesman for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, reiterated Jordan's firm rejection of Palestinian displacement, insisting on the imperative of ending hostilities, protecting civilians, and facilitating their safe return to their homes.