Jordan: Protests against gas pipeline expected in Amman

Event

Protests are expected in the capital Amman in the coming days to denounce the construction of the Israel-Jordan gas pipeline. Demonstrators will call for the cancelation of the project, scheduled to be completed in 2020. Heightened security measures and traffic disruptions are expected in the vicinity of demonstration sites.

Context

In September 2016, Jordan's national oil company NEPCO struck a 15-year deal with Israel to purchase USD 10 billion worth of natural gas supplies. A pipeline between Jordan and Israel was consequently planned to transport these resources. Numerous protests have already been held to denounce the project, with critics claiming that Jordan can produce sufficient solar, shale, and wind energy to negate the need to import gas from Israel.

The pipeline demonstrations come after a wave of nationwide protests that took place in late May and early June to denounce International Monetary Fund-backed austerity measures - including tax and price hikes - aimed at reducing the country's debt. Dozens of people were wounded and arrested, prompting King Abdullah II to ask for the resignation of then-Prime Minister Hani Mulki.

Advice

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