His Majesty King Abdullah on Wednesday affirmed his appreciation of the efforts and sacrifices of retired servicemen and veterans in defending the homeland.

During a meeting at the Royal Hashemite Court with a number of veterans and retired servicemen, King Abdullah told the attendees there are no fears of a conspiracy against the country in the presence of Nashama (brave personnel) like them.

His Majesty voiced confidence in the Jordan Armed Forces-Arab Army and security agencies that work day and night to safeguard the Kingdom’s borders and protect Jordan and its citizens.

The King reaffirmed that there are no fears over Jordan’s borders, commending the professionalism and courage of army and security personnel in countering the terrorist khawarej (outlaws of Islam), who threaten the region and the world.

His Majesty also expressed appreciation for the sacrifices of the nation’s martyrs who gave their lives to defend Jordan.

At the meeting, the King commented on the improved conditions on the borders with Syria and Iraq, adding that the northern border with Syria may be reopened soon, while coordination is ongoing with Iraq on the border.

His Majesty also discussed economic challenges facing Jordan, noting royal directives to the government to reach out transparently to the public as it works to alleviate the pressure on citizens and improve public services.

The King reaffirmed Jordan’s steadfast position on the Palestinian cause, stressing that there is no alternative to the two-state solution and the establishment of a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, and noting that any proposal beyond this framework is of no value.

Noting Jordan’s well known history in defending the Palestinian cause and Jerusalem, and the sacrifices Jordanians have made, His Majesty said Jordan will continue exerting efforts to support the brotherly Palestinian people to gain their legitimate rights and establish their independent state.

Every year, the subject of a confederation resurfaces, the King said. “My answer is: a confederation with whom?” His Majesty asked.

This issue is a red line for Jordan, the King continued, stressing that the Kingdom’s strong, brave position is known to all, and that he has no concerns over this issue.

Addressing veterans, His Majesty said: “I had the honour to serve with you. I started my military career with the 40th Armoured Brigade, and I have no fears of any conspiracy against Jordan in connection to the Palestinian cause.”

The King also commented on challenges facing retired servicemen, highlighting plans by the army and security agencies to improve their conditions and benefit from their expertise, as well as allocate additional funds to support military housing projects.

His Majesty expressed appreciation for the United Arab Emirates, commending Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the crown prince of Abu Dhabi and the deputy supreme commander of the UAE Armed Forces, for supporting Jordan’s army and security agencies, especially military housing projects.

In remarks at the meeting, representatives of retired servicemen and veterans affirmed their commitment to serving the country and the Hashemite leadership.

They thanked His Majesty for meeting regularly with veterans and commended the King’s steadfast positions on the Palestinian cause and Jerusalem, stressing Jordan’s ability to weather regional developments.

Royal Hashemite Court Chief Yousef Issawi, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Lt. Gen. Mahmoud Freihat, General Intelligence Department Director Maj. Gen. Adnan Jundi, Adviser to His Majesty and Director of the Office of His Majesty Manar Dabbas, Adviser to His Majesty for Tribal Affairs Sharif Fawwaz Zaben Abdullah, and the directors of public security, gendarmerie, and civil defence directorates attended the meeting.