“Treachery Is a Jewish Trait”: Jordan’s Schoolbooks Push Antisemitism and Terror Glorification

A new report by the education watchdog IMPACT-se has uncovered deeply troubling content in Jordan’s national school curriculum, exposing widespread anti-Semitic messaging, glorification of violence, and justification of the October 7th Hamas massacre. The findings, based on a review of nearly 300 textbooks used in Jordanian schools between 2023 and 2025, raise serious concerns about the country’s commitment to peace and moderation, especially among its youth.

One of the most alarming revelations is the depiction of the October 7th attacks where Hamas terrorists brutally murdered and kidnapped civilians in Israel as a “response to Israeli colonies.” A Grade 10 Civic Education textbook frames the massacre not as a terrorist act, but as a justified retaliation against so-called “colonies,” a term used to describe Israeli civilian communities. Notably absent is any mention of the horrific violence inflicted on innocent civilians, including women and children.

Even more disturbing is the blatant antisemitism present in several Islamic education texts. A Grade 9 Islamic Education textbook claims that “treachery and violation of agreements are some of the traits of the Jews and their natural qualities.” Other materials push harmful stereotypes, portraying Jews as economic exploiters who used “usury” to control the economy of Medina. The Holocaust, one of the most important and tragic events of the 20th century, is entirely omitted from the World War II history curriculum, effectively erasing its lessons from young minds.

The textbooks also promote radical ideology by glorifying martyrdom and presenting jihad as a religious obligation, warning that neglecting jihad invites divine punishment. Peace with Israel is described as a reluctant and temporary concession, while Zionism is demonized as a “racist political movement” driven by “greedy colonial ambitions.”

Marcus Sheff, CEO of IMPACT-se, condemned the findings, saying, “October 7th was the most brutal attack on Jews since the Holocaust, yet it is described in textbooks as legitimate resistance. This stands in direct contrast to Jordan’s role as a regional peace actor.”

The report concludes that Jordan’s education system fails to meet international standards for promoting peace, tolerance, and coexistence, including those outlined by UNESCO. By indoctrinating children with hate and misinformation from a young age, the curriculum risks radicalizing future generations and undermining regional stability. The normalization of violence and antisemitism in educational materials poses a long-term threat to peace efforts and reinforces deep-rooted prejudice, making it all the more urgent for Jordan to reform its education system in line with its declared values of moderation and coexistence.