King Abdullah II opens 20th Parliament's third session

His Majesty King Abdullah II bin Al Hussein delivered the Speech from the Throne on Monday inaugurating the third ordinary session of the 20th Parliament, delivering a comprehensive address on national security, constitutional responsibilities, economic priorities, and regional affairs.

Opening his address, the King called upon members of the Senate and House of Representatives to observe a minute of silence in honor of the martyrs of the recent terrorist attack in Karak.

The King declared that the blood of Karak's martyrs remains a sacred pledge, stating: "A few days ago, the treacherous hand of terrorism reached out to test the resilience of our state and the resolve of our people, but we will be lying in wait for it."

Denouncing the attackers, the King characterized them as "Kharijite terrorists" who will never be allowed to undermine the nation's security or cohesion.

"These people are not of us. They departed from our great Jordanian family and betrayed this family; there is no place for them among us, neither today nor tomorrow," the King said.

He underscored that Jordan has always been and will remain impenetrable to any brutal aggressor and formidable to those who disregard its history, paying tribute to the Armed Forces and security agencies as valiant soldiers committed to keeping the nation's fence fortified and its flag raised high.

Addressing the Jordanian public, the King affirmed that Jordan's strength resides in a people who grow increasingly cohesive, insightful, and wise when hardships intensify.

He stated that his bet remains firmly on the awareness of Jordanians when paths become clouded, their wisdom when emotions run high, and their loyalty and faithfulness when trials mount.

Turning to foreign policy, King Abdullah II reaffirmed Jordan's enduring principles and dedication to Arab unity.

"We are steadfast in our stance, committed to our Arab identity and to defending the causes of our nation, as my father was before me and my son will be after me," he said, reiterating Jordan's keenness to unite the Arab voice.

On the Palestinian issue, the King warned that there can be no path toward regional peace, security, or stability without fulfilling the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people to their land.

Despite international calls to halt 'Israeli' violations, the King noted that the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza persists alongside ongoing assaults across the occupied West Bank and Jerusalem.

He identified 'Israeli' expansionist ambitions as the single greatest threat to the future and aspirations of the region, asserting: "Whoever thinks that tyranny grants legitimacy is delusional, whoever thinks that time erases the truth is delusional, and whoever thinks that the Jordanian retreats from their principles is also delusional."

The King underlined the vital constitutional role of the legislative branch, reminding the assembled senators and deputies that Parliament constitutes an essential, prominent pillar of political life.

He noted that adherence to the constitutional principle that "the nation is the source of powers" keeps the internal front solid and safeguarded, adding that a strong Jordan is best positioned to defend its interests and champion Arab causes while standing as a steadfast support for its brethren.

He urged lawmakers to serve as a voice for the homeland, guardians of the public interest, and rigorous monitors of executive performance, keeping the interests of citizens at the forefront.

Stressing that public scrutiny extends beyond legislation, the King noted that Jordanians evaluate the conduct and rhetoric that emerge from beneath the parliamentary dome, adding that differences in opinion represent a source of strength so long as Jordan's ultimate interest remains the guiding objective.

On domestic governance and the economy, the King insisted that the citizen's interest must be situated at the core of every state decision rather than on its margins, defining genuine development as that which citizens tangibly feel in their living standards, economic opportunities, education, healthcare, and children's future.

Affirming that Jordan is actively pursuing its economic modernization track, the King noted that implementation has begun on ambitious, major development projects designed to reinforce the national economy, bolster resilience, and build upon Jordan's pivotal regional role.

Highlighting critical resources, King Abdullah identified national water security as an absolute national priority, stressing: "We will not permit the thirst of Jordanians to be held hostage to any circumstance."

Asserting that there is no room for compromise or complacency regarding the kingdom's water security, he instructed the government to advance vital water projects and implement proactive strategies to protect national water reserves, ensuring their sustainability and safeguarding the rights of future generations.

In this regard, he directed the government to expedite the completion of these strategic projects.

Highlighting critical resources, King Abdullah II identified national water security as an absolute national priority, asserting that there is no room for compromise or complacency regarding the kingdom's water security, he instructed the government to advance vital water projects and implement proactive strategies to protect national water reserves, ensuring their sustainability and safeguarding the rights of future generations.

On public administration and integrity, the King issued a strict warning against administrative complacency and misconduct, stating that there is no room in the country for anyone who views public office as an honorary status elevating them above labor or public service.

He declared that no individual holds immunity from accountability for abusing authority, as the prestige of the state and the rule of law take absolute precedence. "The law knows no name, position, or influence," the King emphasized.

Concluding his address, King Abdullah II reaffirmed the public's constitutional right to engage in public discourse, assuring citizens that the state welcomes every sincere, responsible perspective, and noting that true patriotism is shown through the virtue of giving, the dignity of the spoken word, and the decency of disagreement.

Expressing his deep faith in the people, the King affirmed that Jordanians are the subject of his utmost trust and an enduring responsibility, adding that, after God, he relies on their devotion to ensure Jordan remains esteemed, resolute, and of great stature.