AGP Executive Report

Energy Policy: Jordan’s Cabinet approved a 15-year extension of the National Petroleum Company (NPC) concession for the Risha gas field, pushing the deal to 2061 and aiming to lift output to 418 million cubic feet per day by 2030 and 810 million by 2035, with plans for a strategic pipeline linking Risha to the Arab Gas Pipeline. Water Security: The Ministry of Water and Irrigation says 500 residential water tanks (2 cubic meters each) have been installed in southern villages under the SWU project with GIZ and BMZ support, benefiting more than 3,000 people and helping households store water amid irregular supply. Rural Electrification: The Rural Fils Fund approved electricity connectivity for 199 homes and sites in May, combining grid connections and solar systems, including support for low-income households and livestock projects. Sustainable Infrastructure: Excavation and site prep have started for Amra City’s Al Hussein Bin Abdullah II International Stadium, planned for 46,000 spectators, with energy and water efficiency and smart tech built into the design. Biodiversity & Heritage: A feature highlights Jordanian amber as a scientific archive of ancient ecosystems and biodiversity, calling for better protection and study. Digital Skills: A Jordanian team from the Ministry of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship won first place in “FLAG THE HACK,” scoring highest in simulated cyber threat detection and incident response challenges.

Energy Access: Jordan’s Rural Fils Fund approved electricity connectivity for May, covering 199 homes and sites with a mix of grid power and solar systems, including support for low-income households and livestock projects. Natural Resources & Economy: Energy expert Mubarak Al-Tahrawi told Radio Al-Balad that Jordan has major untapped gas, oil shale, and mineral potential, arguing that weakening the Natural Resources Authority hurt exploration and that rebuilding geological capacity could boost revenues and cut debt. Regional Security: Prime Minister Jaafar Hassan stressed that Iraq’s security is inseparable from Jordan’s, citing concerns over drones and armed non-state groups operating across the border and airspace. Heritage & Tourism: Ajloun’s Heritage House in Anjara highlights traditional tools and architecture to preserve folklore, strengthen identity, and draw visitors. Water/Electricity Infrastructure: Madaba is seeing major investments to modernize water and wastewater services, aiming to improve essential public infrastructure.

Energy & Climate Risk: A Jordanian energy expert says Jordan has major, underused gas, oil-shale, and mineral potential, arguing that rebuilding exploration capacity after the Natural Resources Authority was dissolved could unlock revenues and cut debt pressure. Regional Security: Jordan’s PM told Iraq’s parliament speaker that Iraq’s security is inseparable from Jordan’s, citing worries about drones and armed groups operating beyond Iraqi state control. Diplomacy & Maritime Stability: As US-Iran talks near a deal, Trump says the Strait of Hormuz will reopen to all after an agreement is signed, while US forces report intercepting Iranian drones targeting commercial vessels. Local Heritage & Tourism: Ajloun’s Heritage House in Anjara is spotlighted for preserving folklore and traditional architecture, aiming to strengthen identity and attract visitors. Business & Investment Links: The Amman Chamber of Commerce meets the Czech ambassador to boost trade and investment, including plans for a Jordanian-Czech business forum. Climate Finance Angle: A responsible investing piece warns AI-driven data centres are turning climate risk into a direct financial issue via power, water, cooling, and permitting pressures.

Energy & Resources: Jordan’s energy expert Mubarak Al-Tahrawi tells Radio Al-Balad the Kingdom has major untapped gas, oil shale, and minerals (including copper, gold, and lithium), arguing weak investment and the dissolution of the Natural Resources Authority hurt exploration and development. Regional Security: Prime Minister Jaafar Hassan says Iraq’s security is inseparable from Jordan’s, stressing concerns over drones and armed groups operating beyond state control. Holy Sites & Custodianship: Jordanian columnists warn that US-Israeli moves could further erode Hashemite custodianship in Jerusalem, pointing to ongoing “Judaization” pressures around Al-Aqsa. Diplomacy Watch: Qatar’s foreign ministerial calls with Jordan and others highlight support for mediation between the US and Iran and hope for a soon-to-be-signed peace text. Policy & Accountability: Ireland’s “settlements import ban” bill faces backlash and debate over how far boycott rules should go.

Water Pollution Fight: North Carolina’s AG and DEQ sued Brenntag Mid-South to stop illegal chemical contamination of state waters, seeking a rapid cleanup plan for damage reaching Third Fork Creek and downstream Jordan Lake. Energy & Resources Debate: Jordanian energy expert Mubarak Al-Tahrawi told Radio Al-Balad that Jordan has major gas, oil shale, and mineral potential, but says weakened exploration institutions and underinvestment have held back development. Regional Security: Jordan’s PM stressed that Iraq’s security is inseparable from Jordan’s, citing concerns over drones, border/airspace threats, and non-state armed groups operating from Iraqi territory. Holy Sites & Jerusalem: Columnist Mohammad Abu Rumman warned of growing threats to Hashemite custodianship in Jerusalem, linking US denials to ongoing on-the-ground changes around Al-Aqsa. Diplomacy on Iran: Jordan and Qatar officials discussed mediation efforts between the US and Iran, with both sides expressing hope for a soon-to-be-signed peace agreement.

Energy & Resources: Jordan’s energy expert Mubarak Al-Tahrawi says the Kingdom has “vast” gas, oil shale, and minerals—including copper, gold, and lithium—but weak investment and the dissolution of the Natural Resources Authority have hurt exploration and development, arguing better planning could cut debt and boost public revenues. Regional Security: Prime Minister Jaafar Hassan told Iraq’s parliament speaker that Iraq’s security is inseparable from Jordan’s, highlighting Amman’s growing concern over drones, cross-border threats, and non-state armed groups operating from Iraqi territory. Holy Sites & Policy: Columnist Mohammad Abu Rumman warns that reports of plans to weaken Hashemite custodianship in Jerusalem could accelerate changes on the ground around Al-Aqsa, urging Jordan to keep challenging any shift in the status quo. Water & Wastewater: Madaba is moving ahead with major infrastructure investments to modernize water and wastewater services. Sustainability & Heritage: ASEZA and UNESCO signed an agreement to advance sustainable development and preserve Wadi Rum heritage.

Energy & Mining Diplomacy: Jordan’s Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Saleh Kharabsheh and Investment Minister Tareq Abu Ghazaleh wrapped up a US visit focused on boosting Jordanian-American cooperation, with talks on oil and gas exploration, strategic minerals, and the Risha-to-Arab Gas Pipeline project. Natural Resources Debate: Energy expert Mubarak Al-Tahrawi told Radio Al-Balad that Jordan has major untapped gas, oil shale, and mineral potential, but says the dissolution of the Natural Resources Authority weakened exploration and slowed development. Water & Biodiversity Angle: ASEZA and UNESCO signed an agreement to advance sustainable development and help preserve Wadi Rum heritage, while Aqaba Bird Observatory and partners renewed work to protect biodiversity and ecotourism. Governance & Oversight: Jordan’s Audit Bureau urged stronger digital oversight and governance as part of wider public-sector reform discussions. Sports Medicine Support: Aspetar said it is providing World Cup-ready medical support to Arab national teams, including Iraq, through injury prevention, rehab, and performance assessments.

Energy & Resources: Jordan’s energy experts say the Kingdom’s gas, oil shale, and mineral potential is far bigger than current development, arguing that weakened exploration institutions slowed progress and that smarter geological investment could boost state revenues. Regional Security: Jordan’s PM stressed that Iraq’s security is inseparable from Jordan’s own, citing worries over drones, border/airspace threats, and non-state armed activity spilling across the region. Water & Environment Risk (regional spillover): Reports say US-Iran strikes have disrupted water access in parts of Iran, while the Strait of Hormuz closure threat is raising wider economic and environmental pressure across the Gulf. Biodiversity & Conservation (Jordan-linked): Aqaba Bird Observatory and the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature renewed a partnership aimed at protecting biodiversity and migratory birds, reinforcing ecotourism efforts. Local Environment Governance: Jordan’s solid waste sector is facing debate over “privatizing” plans, as ministries discuss how to manage services and environmental outcomes. Displacement Watch: UNHCR reported fewer people displaced globally in 2025, but long-term refugee crises remain severe—relevant for Jordan’s regional humanitarian planning. Airspace Alert (Jordan): US embassy in Amman urged shelter-in-place during renewed US-Iran exchanges, underscoring how regional conflict can quickly affect Jordan’s environment and public safety.

Regional Security: Jordan is again in the spotlight as Iran launches missile and drone attacks on U.S. bases in Jordan, Kuwait and Bahrain after U.S. strikes near the Strait of Hormuz, with Trump warning the U.S. will hit Iran “very hard” and Iran saying it will reassess diplomacy; Foreign Affairs: Jordan’s Foreign Ministry urged citizens in Belfast to avoid demonstrations and follow local instructions amid unrest; Energy & Environment: Reports say U.S. strikes damaged water reservoirs in southern Iran, cutting drinking water to 20,000+ residents—raising concerns about civilian infrastructure in a wider conflict; Jordan’s Policy & Economy: A Jordanian energy expert says the Kingdom has vast, underdeveloped gas, oil shale and mineral potential, calling for stronger geological exploration institutions; Biodiversity & Conservation: Ayla and the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature/Aqaba Bird Observatory renewed a partnership to boost biodiversity and ecotourism.

Water Security in Focus: Iran says the US hit water reservoirs in southern Iran, with officials warning drinking-water supplies were disrupted and alternative measures were being arranged. Regional Airspace Tensions: Iran’s IRGC also claims it struck multiple US-linked sites, including targets tied to Jordan’s al-Azraq base, while Jordan reports intercepting missiles—raising concerns about how conflict can spill into critical infrastructure. Local Environment & Health: A Durham chemical case heads to court as North Carolina alleges illegal contamination of state waters, with residents worried about impacts on wildlife and waterways feeding Jordan Lake. Climate & Nature Awareness: A public health reminder highlights how warming can extend tick season, urging outdoor-goers in Ontario to prevent bites and act fast. Biodiversity Protest (Global): Albania’s “Flamingo Revolution” protests a luxury resort plan near flamingo breeding habitats, showing how development fights can quickly become ecosystem battles. Energy/Resources Angle: Jordan energy commentary argues the country’s gas, oil shale, and minerals remain underdeveloped and calls for stronger exploration institutions.

Transport Modernisation: Jordan’s Land Transport Regulatory Commission says it will roll out 100 electronic transport services and expand regulated intercity buses to 1,000 by 2027, aiming to digitise licensing, monitoring and operations. Humanitarian Fallout: UN agencies warn Gaza’s ceasefire hasn’t stopped civilian harm, with displacement, overstretched services, rising pests/rodents and infectious disease risks linked to solid-waste contamination. Water Pollution Fight: North Carolina’s attorney general moved to stop Brenntag Mid-South from illegal discharges into state waters and demand a rapid cleanup plan, highlighting how chemical contamination can spread downstream. Regional Energy Talks: Egypt urged renewed discussions on developing Palestinian offshore gas, arguing it could support economic recovery and improve living conditions in both the West Bank and Gaza. Nuclear Safety Diplomacy: Jordan and other states backed stronger international protection for peaceful nuclear facilities after drone attacks near the UAE’s Barakah plant. Climate Watch: A new assessment says the expanded 2026 World Cup could generate 7.8 million tons of CO2, with travel driving most emissions.

Jordan Energy & Resources: An energy expert says Jordan’s gas reserves could reach “tens of trillions” of cubic feet, arguing that oil shale and minerals like copper, gold, and lithium remain underdeveloped and that rebuilding specialized geological exploration institutions is key to unlocking revenue and reducing public debt. Regional Security: Jordan’s PM told Iraq’s parliament speaker that Iraq’s security is inseparable from Jordan’s own, citing concerns over drones, border/airspace threats, and non-state armed groups operating beyond Iraqi state control. Holy Sites & Jerusalem: A Jordanian columnist warns that reports of plans to weaken Hashemite custodianship could accelerate changes around Al-Aqsa Mosque, pointing to ongoing “Judaization” concerns. Trade & Environment Cooperation: South Korea’s economic and trade cooperation agreement with Jordan took effect, covering investment, tourism, agriculture, and the environment, with a joint committee planned to expand cooperation.

Energy & Resources: Jordan’s energy expert Mubarak Al-Tahrawi says the Kingdom has “enormous” untapped gas, oil shale, and mineral potential, arguing weak exploration institutions have held back development that could boost revenues and cut public debt. Regional Energy Cooperation: Jordan and Iraq are pushing ahead on an Iraqi oil pipeline through Jordan and electricity interconnection, framing them as strategic projects that strengthen both economies amid shifting regional routes. Biodiversity & Conservation: UNESCO has appointed Jordanian Nayef H. Al-Fayez as Assistant Director-General for Culture, with his background including environment and sustainable tourism work—relevant for heritage and nature protection. Biodiversity Partnership: Aqaba Bird Observatory and the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature renew their partnership to strengthen biodiversity conservation and ecotourism. Local Environment Governance: Reports say Jordan is discussing “privatizing” the solid waste sector, a move that could reshape how waste services are delivered.

Energy & Resources: Jordan’s energy expert Mubarak Al-Tahrawi says the Kingdom has massive, still-untapped gas, oil shale, and mineral potential, arguing that weak exploration institutions have held back development and could be rebuilt to unlock major revenue. Regional Security: Prime Minister Jaafar Hassan told Iraqi leaders that Iraq’s security is inseparable from Jordan’s, highlighting Jordan’s concerns over drones, border threats, and armed groups operating beyond state control. Environment & Biodiversity: Aqaba Bird Observatory and the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature renew a strategic partnership to boost biodiversity conservation and ecotourism. Waste & Policy: Jordan’s ministries discuss “privatizing” the solid waste sector, a move that could reshape how services are delivered. Local Nature & Food: ANU’s kitchen garden program shows how hands-on growing supports students’ wellbeing and environmental connection, with harvest sessions and shared meals. Climate/Industry Context: IATA warns global airlines’ profits are being hit hard by the Iran-linked fuel crisis and supply disruptions, while also flagging pressure on climate targets.

Biodiversity & Ecotourism: Ayla Oasis Development Company renewed its long-running partnership with the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN) to keep Aqaba’s bird monitoring and the Aqaba Bird Observatory running through spring and autumn migration seasons, strengthening biodiversity protection and ecotourism. Zero Waste & Circular Economy: TIKA showcased recycling and waste-management projects at Istanbul’s Zero Waste Festival, including Jordan-focused circular initiatives like copper recycling and turning banana tree waste into organic textile materials, while also running a Gaza-focused education workshop honoring journalist Yahya Barzaq. Food Security: Jordan’s food self-sufficiency ratio rose to 61.4% in 2024 (up from 57.3% in 2020), driven mainly by stronger vegetable and fruit-tree production, though imports still remain crucial for key staples. Water & Climate Resilience (Regional): A report on flooding-prone Highlands highlights how storm drains, pump stations, and retention basins are being used to manage heavy rains and protect communities in low-lying areas. EU-Jordan Relations: The EU’s human rights envoy praised Jordan as a stability pillar and strategic partner, pointing to cooperation on displacement and regional crises.

Jordan Culture & Heritage: The Minister of Culture Mustafa Rawashdeh inspected Jerash ahead of the 40th Jerash Festival, urging faster preparations and top-tier logistics at the archaeological site, with media support to boost Jordan’s cultural image regionally and globally. Water & Climate Resilience (Jordan-linked): An OpEd argues that for 6,000 years humans have tried to control water through dams and canals, but warming is exposing the limits of that approach—pushing societies to rethink how they manage water and ecosystems. Regional Environment & Marine Invasives: A report highlights Israel’s coordinated push to hunt red lionfish, calling it a major invasive threat to the Mediterranean marine ecosystem and noting the role of canals in spreading species. Health System Pressure (Zarqa): Zarqa’s health directorate says evening shifts at comprehensive health centers reduced strain on ERs, with about 700 daily patients served in the 4pm–10pm period during the expansion phase. Sustainability & Data (Jordan region): Zain’s sustainability update points to centralized ESG data management and automation of environmental indicators across operations in the Middle East and Africa.