For the sake of security

His Majesty King Abdullah’s recent meeting with a number of senior retired military officers is part of the King’s continued efforts to maintain close contact with all sectors of Jordanian society with a view to sounding their concerns.

During the dialogue with retired military officers, the Monarch stressed that the protection of Jordan’s interests is at the top of the national priorities, as are the protection of the country’s borders and its security.

The King assured his audience that all government agencies are fully cognisant of all threats to the country’s security and safety, and are prepared for all eventualities.

Regarding Gaza, pummelled by Israel, the King assured the officers, indeed the entire country, that Jordan’s mission in New York is making full use of its membership in the UN Security Council, in cooperation with Arab delegations, including the Palestinians, to have the UN adopt the necessary resolution that puts an immediate end to the Israeli aggression and restores peace and security to the people of Gaza by lifting the blockade that Israel has been imposing on them for years.

The officers, praising the King’s continuous efforts to stay in contact with them and other groups of citizens, reinforced the need to safeguard national unity and imposed the rule of law.

The King’s message to the retired military officers echoes similar messages to other Jordanian interlocutors.

As the Monarch pointed out, the retired military officers constitute the second line of defence in Jordan and their support and cooperation are indispensable for national unity and security.

As in all other countries, retired military personnel can be recalled for duty, should the need arise, to defend the country from any danger or threat.

Keeping them on board to promote the basic national interests is therefore a national priority.