Brussels: Today, President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen held a phone call with His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan. Their conversation centered around regional stability and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, which is currently in its 11th week under a severe blockade.
According to Cyprus News Agency, President von der Leyen commended Jordan’s leadership and its longstanding role in hosting Palestinian refugees, emphasizing Jordan’s position as a cornerstone of stability in a conflict-ridden region. The leaders expressed grave concerns over the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza, where recent military operations by Israel have targeted civilian infrastructure, including a school sheltering displaced families, resulting in civilian casualties, including children.
President von der Leyen reiterated the EU’s strong appeal for Israel to end the blockade, highlighting the need for Israel to adhere to humanitarian principles by restoring aid deliveries with the involvement of the UN and other international partners. She underscored the EU’s support for Israel’s right to security and self-defense but condemned the disproportionate use of force against civilians, asserting that such actions are unjustifiable under international law.
The discussion also covered the situation in the West Bank, with the EU increasing support to the Palestinian Authority and people through a comprehensive financial assistance package. This includes £1.6 billion earmarked for the 2025-2027 period, with £310 million allocated directly to the Palestinian Authority in 2025. The leaders reaffirmed their backing for the Arab Recovery and Reconstruction Plan for Gaza, approved at the Cairo Summit, and stressed that no forcible displacement of Palestinians should occur.
Further, they reviewed the ongoing implementation of the EU-Jordan Strategic and Comprehensive Partnership, with President von der Leyen expressing appreciation for the cooperation since its inception. She noted the anticipated disbursement of £500 million under the EU’s Macro-Financial Assistance Package, with additional assistance planned to boost Jordan’s investment climate.
The situation in Syria was also a topic of discussion, with President von der Leyen acknowledging Jordan’s efforts in supporting institutional capacity-building. She confirmed the EU’s decision to lift economic sanctions on Syria while emphasizing continued vigilance on human rights issues. The Brussels IX Conference recently secured nearly £6 billion in pledges to support Syria and neighboring countries, underscoring Europe’s commitment to Syria’s recovery and reconciliation path.
The leaders highlighted the EU’s proactive role in addressing regional challenges, emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive, peaceful resolution to conflicts and the establishment of a two-state solution.