Jordan bans Muslim Brotherhood in shocking crackdown over terror links

In a significant political development, Jordan's Interior Minister Mazen al-Faraya announced a sweeping ban on all activities associated with the Muslim Brotherhood, officially declaring the group illegal within the Hashemite Kingdom. The decision, reported by Asharq Al-Awsat, enforces a 2020 court ruling that had previously called for the dissolution of the organization due to its failure to correct its legal status under Jordanian law.

According to Jordanian sources, authorities have already begun implementing a series of measures against the group. These include closing down the Muslim Brotherhood's headquarters, removing banners bearing the organization’s logo and name, and confiscating its property. Officials have also hinted at the possibility of legal proceedings against the group’s leaders, intensifying the crackdown.

The government’s move follows heightened security concerns, including the recent arrest of 16 militants linked to terror cells reportedly planning attacks against Israel. The suspects were found in possession of weapons and missiles, and during interrogations, one admitted to having longstanding ties with both Hamas and the Muslim Brotherhood, tracing his recruitment back to 2010.

While the Muslim Brotherhood was officially outlawed in 2020, the decision at the time did not extend to its affiliated arms, including the political party Islamic Action Front, which continues to wield considerable influence in Jordan. In the most recent parliamentary elections, the party secured 40% of the vote, emerging as the largest bloc. Tensions have recently flared in parliament, where members of the party have publicly expressed allegiance to the king while simultaneously voicing support for Palestinian resistance and condemning Israel.

During a recent speech, party member Ahmad al-Qatawneh stated, “We salute the resilience of the Palestinian people and their noble resistance in Gaza, which, God willing, will stand as a strong barrier against the Zionist enemy.”

Founded in Egypt in the early 20th century, the Muslim Brotherhood has evolved into a global movement with separate national branches, all of which share a similar ideology. While Hamas represents the Brotherhood among Palestinians and Turkey’s ruling party is ideologically aligned with it, in Jordan, the group has long posed a political challenge to the monarchy and has been accused of promoting extremism and instability.

Jordan's latest move signals a zero-tolerance policy toward organizations perceived as threats to national security and stability—particularly those with ties to terrorism and foreign political agendas.