Jordan: Protests underway in Amman July 28 /update 3

Event

On Friday, July 28, protestors gathered outside the Israeli Embassy in Amman amid rising tensions between Israel and Jordan after the July 23 shooting at the embassy which resulted in the deaths of two Jordanians. Clashes have reportedly erupted between protestors and security forces. The surrounding areas should be avoided.

Continued protests in the coming hours and days are likely.

Context

On July 23, an Israeli security guard shot a local Jordanian teen as he attempted to attack the guard with a screwdriver; a bystander was also shot and later succumbed to his wounds. At least one Israeli was also reportedly wounded in the incident. Israel has reportedly not allowed Jordanian authorities to question the guard, claiming diplomatic immunity. King Abdullah of Jordan consequently called for Israel to put the guard on trial.

High-level talks are taking place to defuse the situation. An intense security presence, including road closures, should continue be anticipated surrounding the embassy. As of July 27, the embassy remains closed and the staff has reportedly returned to Israel.

The Israeli Embassy shooting came several days after thousands of Jordanians protested in Amman to denounce Israel's decision to install metal detectors at the Jerusalem holy site known among Muslims as Haram al-Sharif (Noble Sanctuary) and among Jews as the Temple Mount, implemented in the wake of an attack on July 14 that killed two Israeli police officers. The metal detectors were subsequently removed on July 25 following clashes between protesters and police, but the situation remains extremely volatile. 

Advice

All those present in Amman are advised to monitor developments to the situation, to adhere to all instructions as issued by the local authorities, and to avoid any demonstrations. In particular, individuals should avoid downtown Amman, the immediate vicinity of the Israeli embassy, and major city centers.