Rising Tensions on the Jordan Border: King Abdullah Makes Surprise Move

Against the backdrop of growing reports of tension between Jordan and Israel, Crown Prince Hussein bin Abdullah II announced on Sunday the revival of Jordan’s national military service program, which will reinstate mandatory conscription for the first time in 34 years.

Speaking at a gathering with young people in Irbid, in northern Jordan, the Crown Prince declared that the new framework would reintroduce compulsory service, according to the Jordanian news agency Arab News.

Prince Hussein emphasized that the younger generation must be prepared to serve and defend their homeland. “Those who have already experienced military service know its importance—not only from a security standpoint, but also in shaping one’s character and instilling discipline. Military service will strengthen national identity and deepen young people’s connection to their homeland,” he said.

The Crown Prince noted that he had previously instructed the government to work with its partners in developing the program and said that its implementation would follow a clear timetable, to be published soon.

Mandatory conscription in Jordan was abolished in 1991. At the time, men aged 18 to 40 were required to serve two years in the army. Since then, Jordan has relied heavily on U.S. military aid and a defense agreement with Washington, under which thousands of American soldiers are stationed in the kingdom.

This dramatic move comes amid increasing unease in Amman, where both official statements and recent policy steps have signaled concern over the shifting dynamics along Jordan’s border with Israel.

{Matzav.com Israel}