Geostrategic Media Political Commentary, Analysis, Security, Defense
Eng. Saleem Al-Batayneh
In the complex realm of political geography, a mere glance at the map of our region tells an intricate story. Jordan, a nation with a history that resonates through millennia, stands today at a pivotal juncture. The profound transformation unfolding in the Middle East is altering the very architecture of international and regional relations. Old alliances have withered, traditional power blocs have weakened, and a new geopolitical landscape is taking shape.
As Jordanians, we must not only recognize but also comprehensively grasp the evolving dynamics around us. The shifting alliances and global realignments demand that we ask ourselves: Where do we stand? The indicators and developments in our surroundings cannot be dismissed. Alliances have been reshaped, ties severed, and interests recalibrated.
We find ourselves in a brave new world, one that was largely unforeseen, characterized by economic and political principles that promise to reshape our reality. The region is in a state of constant flux, presenting unexpected scenes daily. Circumstances have evolved, conditions have changed, and the primacy of the nation-state has surged to the forefront.
In this discourse, I advocate for a prudent examination of our surroundings through the lens of rationality. The discourse of alliances and blocs has become ubiquitous, giving rise to new terminologies with distinct political implications. Diplomatic maps are being redrawn, accompanied by geographic shifts, and alliances are being rewritten at a pace not seen in decades.
To avoid becoming overly emotional, we must meticulously observe these changes, understanding the political geography taking shape behind us and around us. Failure to do so might lead us astray, taking us to places we never anticipated. Economic fragmentation may partition the region into competing economic blocs, leading to division—a risk that would impoverish everyone and compromise security.
Amidst these intertwined factors, one question repeatedly arises: what the Arab region is currently witnessing can be seen as a gray mosaic of conditional interests among numerous nations. The Arab political stage is a crucible for future political transformations, and the Arab collective consciousness resides in a state of turmoil. Issues cannot be disregarded, and problems cannot be ignored. Communication is imperative to navigate these challenges.
In light of these complexities, a crucial query emerges: where does Jordan stand in terms of alliances? Are Jordanian partnerships enduring? Is Jordan actively pursuing new alliances in the intricate game of geopolitical balances to bolster its economic standing and revive its waning regional influence? We must remember the example set by the late King Hussein, who proactively positioned Jordan as a partner, even without formal invitations, in alliances that served its interests.
We have pathways that can lead to a secure and stable geostrategic position for Jordan, underpinned by economic stability, a fortified domestic front, expanded options for navigating political transformations, and the ability to uphold the Palestinian cause and Hashemite custodianship of the holy sites.
We cannot afford to lose maneuverability or let the train depart without us. The decision-making process differs profoundly from the process of dismantling decisions. It seems that we have settled for superficial analyses that exacerbate our crises, dismissing them as mundane news that doesn’t engage our collective intellect.
In these turbulent times, Jordan must rise to the occasion, safeguard its interests, and steer its course through the ever-changing seas of geopolitics
Al-Batayneh is a former member of the Jordanian Parliament.
