The Hidden Ally: Jordan Revealed as "Secret Partner" in War Against Iran
Despite public claims of neutrality, Jordan has emerged as a critical strategic partner for Israel and the United States, providing early warnings and active military support during recent attacks.
Jordan has played a pivotal and largely hidden role as a primary strategic ally for the United States and Israel during the war against Iran, according to a report by Professor Ronen Yitzhak published on Sunday. While Jordanian officials publicly declared they would not allow any side to violate their airspace, the reality on the ground was far different. Jordan was the first regional nation to mobilize its resources, providing critical early warnings on ballistic missile launches through a network of advanced radars and participating directly in the destruction of Iranian threats.
This cooperation was centered around the Muwaffaq al-Salti Air Base, located about 100 kilometers east of Amman. Originally a small landing strip, the base was transformed by the United States into a massive strategic hub for F-15 and F-35 squadrons, tankers, and THAAD air defense systems. While other Gulf nations refused to let the U.S. launch strikes against Iran from their territory, Jordan granted the Western coalition and Israel a protected flight path and a base for operations that were essential to achieving military objectives.
The results of this partnership were staggering. Official reports from the Jordanian military indicate that their forces intercepted 261 missiles and drones out of 281 fired toward Israel, a 93% success rate. However, this support came at a price for the kingdom. Falling debris from these interceptions injured 28 Jordanian citizens and damaged several buildings. Furthermore, the Muwaffaq al-Salti base itself became a target for direct Iranian attacks, which briefly damaged a critical early warning system before it was restored to full operation.
The decision to side so clearly with the West reflects King Abdullah’s long-standing view of Iran as a primary regional threat. Since 2004, the King has warned of a "Shiite Crescent" and has secretly encouraged ties between Israel and the Gulf states. By allowing these operations, Jordan has proven to be the most reliable and senior strategic partner for the West in the Middle East. Despite the domestic risks and the public anger in the Arab world, the kingdom’s actions have been a decisive factor in preventing a catastrophe on the Israeli home front.
