Jordanian PM: Israel’s annexation of Jordan Valley contradicts peace agreement

Jordan worried about secret Israeli-Palestinian negotiations, ask to participate in further talks to protest its interests.

By ARIEL BEN SOLOMON
Jordanian Prime Minister Abdullah Ensour (photo credit: REUTERS/Muhammad Hamed)
Jordanian Prime Minister Abdullah Ensour
(photo credit: REUTERS/Muhammad Hamed)
Jordanian Prime Minister Abdullah Ensour said that the Israeli annexation of the Jordan Valley would be contrary to the peace agreement signed between the two countries in 1994.
Speaking to a gathering of parliament members, he said that Jordan “categorically rejects any Israeli intention in this regard and will not stand idly by, but will act diplomatically,” according to a report on Thursday in the London-based daily Al-Hayat.
Jordanian officials have expressed their fear over the last two days over reports that Israel and the Palestinians are conducting secret negotiations and may come to an agreement that comes at Jordan’s expense.
Former prime minister Marouf al-Bakhit stressed the necessity of Jordan having a presence and participating in any future negotiations in order to protect its interests.
Abdullah pointed out that Washington informed Amman that it is completely unsatisfied with the Israeli project as well.
A Jordanian government spokesman told Al-Hayat that Jordan’s position is clear – “the entire territory of the West Bank and Gaza Strip are Palestinian land under occupation,” and should make up the Palestinian state.