Jordan: Protest and march in Irbid July 25

Event

Some 150 people demonstrated in Irbid on Wednesday, July 25, over a plan to import Israeli natural gas. Protesters reportedly marched along the pipeline route in Irbid, denouncing the move as representative of normalization vis-à-vis the perceived Israeli occupation of Palestinian lands and demanding the cancelation of the project. Additional related protests are possible in Irbid in the near-term; a heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions are expected near protest sites.

Context

It is estimated that the Israel-Jordan pipeline, measuring 65 km (40 mi) upon completion in 2020, will transport USD 10 billion of natural gas to Jordan over a 15-year period, saving Jordan's national utility company over USD 300 million per year. The construction of water desalination, tourism, and other energy facilities is also reportedly part of the deal, struck between Israel and Jordan in 2016. Critics of the pipeline claim that Jordan can produce sufficient solar, shale, and wind energy to negate the need to import gas from Israel.

The Irbid demonstration also comes after a wave of protests was held in the country in late May and early June to protest IMF-backed austerity measures - including tax and price hikes - aimed at reducing the country's debt. Dozens of people were wounded and arrested in the demonstrations, which prompted King Abdullah II to ask for the resignation of then-Prime Minister Hani Mulki.

Advice

Individuals in Jordan, particularly in Irbid, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.