Jordan’s King Abdullah: Gaza Catastrophe ‘Unlike Anything Witnessed in Recent History’

LONDON: King Abdullah II of Jordan has described the humanitarian crisis in Gaza as one of the worst tragedies in modern history, as the Israeli military campaign in the besieged Palestinian territory enters its 22nd month.

Speaking during a meeting with media representatives at Al Husseiniya Palace, the Jordanian monarch reaffirmed his country’s unwavering support for the people of Gaza, calling the crisis “a humanitarian catastrophe unlike anything witnessed in recent history.”

“Jordan has been, and will remain, the greatest support for Gaza’s people, who are suffering immensely,” King Abdullah said, according to the Petra news agency.

He emphasized that Jordan continues to engage in active diplomatic efforts aimed at ending the conflict and alleviating human suffering in Gaza. These efforts include close coordination with Arab leaders and international partners, including Germany and Canada, to boost humanitarian aid and pressure for a ceasefire.

“The suffering of our brethren in Gaza strikes at the very sense of our humanity — not just because it is happening at our doorstep, but because this nation was founded on compassion and solidarity with those in need,” he added.

The king lamented the scale of devastation, noting that “entire families are being erased, and children are being starved.” He acknowledged that no amount of aid or support can fully address the magnitude of the suffering but vowed that Jordan would continue to do everything within its power to provide relief.

“We are doing everything we can  relentlessly and without hesitation,” he said.

Jordan has been at the forefront of regional humanitarian response efforts since the early days of the war. It was one of the first nations to launch airlift missions carrying medical supplies and food into Gaza and since late 2023 has dispatched hundreds of aid trucks to the war-torn enclave.

The Jordanian leadership has long been a vocal supporter of Palestinian rights, advocating for a two-state solution and an end to Israeli occupation policies. King Abdullah has consistently warned that continued violence in Gaza threatens not only Palestinian lives but also regional stability and global moral conscience.