Jordan-Israel relationship ‘at its worst’ after West Bank plans
Al Jazeera
February 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Jordan-Israel relationship has reached a critical point following Israel’s announcement to restart land registration in the occupied West Bank. This move has caused significant tension between the two nations, with Jordan expressing deep concern over its implications for regional stability and territorial integrity. The decision comes amid broader concerns about Israeli policies in the West Bank and their potential impact on peace efforts in the region.
The strained relationship is particularly notable given the 1994 peace agreement that established diplomatic ties between Jordan and Israel. This agreement has long been seen as a cornerstone of Middle East diplomacy, fostering cooperation on key issues such as security and economic partnerships. However, recent developments have raised questions about whether this decades-old framework remains viable in its current form.
Jordan’s foreign minister highlighted the importance of maintaining strong bilateral relations while emphasizing the need for mutual respect and adherence to international law. The land registration plan has been widely criticized by Jordanian officials, who argue that it undermines efforts to achieve a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and risks destabilizing the region. Israel, on the other hand, maintains that the initiative is aimed at clarifying property rights and does not constitute an expansion of settlements.
The situation underscores the delicate balance of interests at play in the Middle East. For Jordan, preserving its role as a key player in regional diplomacy is crucial to maintaining influence over Israeli policies. Meanwhile, Israel’s actions have drawn criticism from both domestic and international partners
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/19/2026