Jordan se suočava s rastućom rizikom da postane najnovija država na prvoj liniji u američko-iranskom sukobu

Jordan faces growing risk of becoming latest frontline state in US-Iran conflict Air raid sirens echoed through parts of Jordan early Tuesday as Iranian missiles targeted the kingdom. The Jordanian army confirmed that its air defense system intercepted and destroyed three missiles originating from Iranian territory, which had entered Jordanian airspace and aimed at the country’s territory. No casualties were reported in the incident, though it marks another escalation in tensions following a string of attacks that have placed Jordan under increasing pressure. Last week, an Iranian missile strike hit a U.S. military base in Jordan, killing two American service members and injuring approximately 30 others. This attack comes amid heightened regional hostilities, with Iran having previously launched missiles toward Jordan after the U.S. and Israel conducted joint airstrikes against Iranian targets in late February. Jordan, one of eight Arab nations hosting permanent U.S. military facilities, has found itself caught in the crossfire of escalating U.S.-Iran tensions. While some Gulf states have faced direct Iranian attacks since the February strikes, Jordan has largely remained untargeted until recently. However, Iran has made clear its stance, reserving the right to retaliate against any state hosting U.S. military assets, including Jordan. “Jordan is one of them,” noted Erwin van Veen, a senior research fellow at the Clingendael Institute in The Hague. He emphasized the precarious position of Jordan’s King Abdullah II, who must navigate a delicate balance between military and economic reliance on the United States and maintaining sovereignty. The U.S. is Jordan’s largest single foreign supporter, providing substantial financial and military aid. A 2022 Memorandum of Understanding established annual support of $1.45 billion, later increased to $1.65 billion in 2025—triple the amount from 2010. Additionally, a 2021 Defense Cooperation Agreement granted U.S. forces formal access to Jordanian military facilities. Recent reports indicate that over 4,000 U.S. troops are currently stationed in Jordan, a number higher than in previous years. Despite this close alliance, Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi has stated that there are no foreign military bases within the country. Analysts suggest this discrepancy may reflect efforts to mitigate anti-U.S. sentiment, as Jordan seeks to maintain neutrality while managing its complex relationships. Kelly Petillo, program manager for the Middle East and North Africa at the European Council on Foreign Relations, pointed out that Jordan’s alliances, particularly with the U.S., influence both its security and domestic politics. She argued that Jordan, like several Gulf allies, may be reconsidering the long-term benefits of its U.S. partnership. A 2026 Arab Barometer survey revealed that only 12% of Jordanians hold a favorable view of former U.S. President Donald Trump’s foreign policy, highlighting a deepening skepticism toward American influence in the region. Tensions with Israel have also intensified, adding another layer of complexity to Jordan’s geopolitical situation. In recent months, relations between Jordan and Israel have deteriorated, with the two nations recalling ambassadors in November 2023 following Jordan’s criticism of Israeli actions during the early stages of the Gaza conflict. Analysts warn that Iran’s continued targeting of Jordan could push the kingdom closer to Israel, potentially alienating Jordan’s population and fueling unrest. During the Gaza war, widespread protests erupted as citizens demanded an end to the 1994 peace treaty between Jordan and Israel, indicating the potential for similar demonstrations should Jordan align more closely with Israel. As the situation unfolds, Jordan finds itself at a critical juncture, balancing its strategic partnerships with the U.S. and its broader regional interests. With Iran continuing to test the limits of Jordanian airspace and the U.S. maintaining a strong military presence, the kingdom’s ability to manage these pressures will determine its future role in the evolving dynamics of the Middle East.