Palestinian pressures may undercut Jordanian stability

Significance

The recognition caused outrage across the Arab world, especially in neighbouring Jordan, where it prompted a series of protests, most recently on December 29, with hundreds of marchers waving both Jordanian and Palestinian flags. On the same day, a senior official from Palestinian Islamist movement Hamas demanded that President Mahmoud Abbas, of the rival Fatah party, should terminate the 1993 Oslo Accords governing cooperation with Israel.

Impacts

• Abbas will cling to the Oslo Accords as the basis of his legitimacy; however, he may seek alternative mediators.
• Jordan could ease travel restrictions on visiting Palestinians, though Amman will be wary of anyone seeking a more permanent stay.
• Successful Palestinian reconciliation would open up Gaza to Jordanian firms, especially in the construction, health and education sectors.