Jordan's foreign minister calls for immediate international action to prevent regional war

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ayman Safadi emphasized on Wednesday the urgent need for immediate and effective international action to stop the dangerous escalation pushing the region toward a full-scale regional war.

He called for an immediate and lasting ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon and an end to Israeli Occupation's escalating actions in the occupied West Bank.

During a phone call with British Foreign Secretary David Lammy, Safadi stressed that no one benefits from a regional war that threatens both regional and global security, making de-escalation a top priority. He also emphasized that the ceasefire must begin with halting Israeli Occupation aggression in Gaza and Lebanon, warning of the catastrophic consequences if Israeli Occupation expands its war into Lebanon, including a ground invasion.

Safadi reiterated that Jordan will not become a battleground for others and will firmly defend its security, stability, and the safety of its citizens. He noted that Jordan has clearly communicated this stance to both Iran and "Israel".

Safadi further stressed the importance of supporting Lebanese caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati's initiative, which aligns with the proposal put forth by US President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron. This initiative includes deploying the Lebanese army in the south, implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1701, and initiating the election of a Lebanese president once a ceasefire is reached.

Safadi affirmed Jordan's unwavering support for Lebanon's security and sovereignty and called for an international effort to provide humanitarian aid to Lebanon, which is grappling with the needs of over a million displaced people. He added that Jordan, under the direction of King Abdullah II, has already begun sending aid to Lebanon and is prepared to cooperate with other countries in delivering assistance.

Additionally, Safadi warned of the worsening humanitarian crisis caused by Israeli Occupation's continued aggression in Gaza and urged pressure on Israeli Occupation to adhere to international law by allowing the immediate and sufficient delivery of aid to Gaza. He emphasized the importance of enabling international and humanitarian organizations to distribute aid to all in need.

Safadi and Lammy discussed regional and international efforts aimed at de-escalation and reaffirmed their commitment to continuing cooperation to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon and prevent the region from descending into a full-scale war. They also followed up on the discussions between King Abdullah II and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer during their phone call the previous day.