Jordan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Ayman Safadi, has vehemently criticized Israel’s actions, asserting that they not only kill innocent Palestinians, destroy their livelihoods, and devastate Gaza, but also make the region uninhabitable and kill the hope for peace.
Speaking at a symposium organized by the Wilson Research Center in Washington, Safadi argued that a regional opinion poll would likely show that most no longer believe in a viable peace with Israel. He opined that Israel has suffered a strategic defeat in this war.
Safadi highlighted Israel’s policies in the West Bank, including settlement expansion, land confiscation, and allowing extremists to shape the Palestinians’ future. He pointed to figures like Ben Gvir and Smotrich, openly advocating for the Palestinian people’s eradication, and the Israeli Prime Minister’s statements about stifling Palestinian state aspirations.
The minister urged considering the context of the terrible events of October 7 and the subsequent war. He accused Israel of defying the world, including the UN and the USA, by indiscriminately killing civilians and depriving them of food, water, and medicine. Safadi emphasized that using food as a weapon is another war crime Israel must be held accountable for.
Safadi described the ground reality in Gaza, noting record numbers of journalists, medics, and UN staff killed, and hospitals destroyed. He relayed a message from the UNRWA head about the humanitarian system collapsing, leading to a real disaster unfolding.
Safadi appreciated some decisions by the American administration but disagreed on the fundamental issue of not calling for a ceasefire. He reiterated that self-defense does not justify an occupier’s actions and questioned how the killing of thousands of Palestinians, mostly women and children, could be justified.
The minister stressed that the current situation is not just a challenge in Gaza but also reflects a silent war in the West Bank. He mentioned over 300 terrorist attacks by settlers since the conflict began on October 7. Safadi condemned Israel’s recent announcement of new settlement expansions and the continuous dehumanization of Palestinians.
Safadi called for the U.S. to lead a significant effort towards a two-state solution, with practical plans, mechanisms, and timelines. He urged for a comprehensive, fair peace to save the region from the horrors currently unfolding.
The minister concluded by underscoring Israel’s illegal, unethical, and inhumane aggression against Palestinians and the global silence on these issues. He highlighted the need for action against Israel to prevent further war crimes and protect the future of the region.
