AGP Executive Report

Jerusalem & Al-Aqsa: Arab and Muslim foreign ministers met in Amman as Jordan warned of an “imminent” Israeli takeover risk at Al-Aqsa/Temple Mount, with Jordanian FM Ayman Safadi stressing an occupying power has no sovereignty over occupied land and calling for protection of the holy site’s status quo. Regional Diplomacy: Indonesia urged a united global front to stop tolerating Israeli violations, while multiple Muslim-majority states condemned attacks on Gaza’s healthcare and civilian infrastructure. Jordanian Spotlight: Jordan’s role as custodian of holy sites was highlighted alongside calls for an international response and documentation of violations. Culture & Lifestyle: Locarno’s Match Me! showcased younger co-production voices, including a Brazilian coming-of-age drama/survival thriller, while Jordanian audiences also get a taste of global culture via new streaming and travel roundups. Education & Human Stories: A Gaza student’s scholarship acceptance in Italy offered a rare lifeline amid evacuation pressures and soaring demand for study abroad.

Jordanian Diplomacy on Jerusalem: Arab and Muslim foreign ministers met in Amman under Jordan’s chairmanship, agreeing on a permanent mechanism to document Israeli violations at Al-Aqsa and holy sites, while reaffirming Jordan’s custodianship and warning that any change to the status quo could spark wider religious conflict. Regional Condemnations: A joint statement from UAE, Qatar, Jordan and others condemned Israel’s Gaza actions as breaches of international law, saying they threaten to derail the next phase of a Gaza peace framework. Identity & Education Tech: BIO-key and Maktabi Tech partnered to expand identity security tools for education across Saudi Arabia, Jordan and the UAE, aiming to protect students and staff while simplifying access to digital learning. Tourism Push: Jordan launched “Ahlan Jordan,” an integrated digital platform to promote Jordan to Arab markets with tailored travel packages and easier planning. Culture & Media: Nadia Sawalha began legal action against ITV over claims she was removed from “Loose Women” linked to her public support for Palestinian rights.

Jerusalem & Al-Aqsa Diplomacy: Arab and Muslim foreign ministers met in Amman under Jordan’s chairmanship, condemning Israeli “escalation” at Al-Aqsa and calling for a permanent mechanism to document violations, reaffirming Jordan’s Hashemite custodianship and the status quo. UNESCO Culture Watch: UNESCO kept the Old City of Jerusalem and its Walls on the World Heritage in Danger list, citing threats to conservation and Jordan welcomed the decision. Regional Solidarity: Türkiye and other Muslim countries agreed to push a joint international stance, while Pakistan urged united action to protect Jerusalem’s holy sites and reject settlement expansion. Jordan–Pakistan Ties: Ishaq Dar met Ayman Safadi in Amman, pledging expanded cooperation across political, defense, economic, education, cultural, and people-to-people areas. Education & Mobility: Greece’s University of Patras drew 168 applications from 23 countries for a new English-language medical program, including Jordan. Lifestyle/Travel: AmaWaterways unveiled AmaNubia, a 76-guest luxury Nile ship launching in November 2026, as Jordan’s Tourism Ministry launched the Ahlan Jordan digital platform for Arab travelers.

Jerusalem Diplomacy: Jordan hosted Arab and Muslim foreign ministers in Amman to back a unified response to Israeli “escalation” at Al-Aqsa and other holy sites, with calls to document violations and coordinate diplomatic, legal, and media action. UNESCO Heritage: UNESCO kept Jerusalem’s Old City and its Walls on the World Heritage in Danger list, citing unmet conservation conditions amid threats Jordan links to Israeli measures. Regional Talks: Deputy PM/FM Ishaq Dar met Ayman Safadi to discuss the West Bank and regional stability, while Pakistan and others reaffirmed cooperation and support for Palestinian rights. Human Rights Visit: UN High Commissioner Volker Türk wrapped a one-day visit to Jordan, urging stronger judicial independence, an end to administrative detention, and better human-rights protections. US-Jordan Deal: Jordan and the US signed a $354.6m four-year strategic goals agreement to fund water security, energy, education, tourism, and economic opportunity under the Economic Modernization Vision. Community & Learning: Islamic Relief’s “Youth Soar” graduation in Jordan highlighted support for Syrian refugees and host communities, including livestock micro-grants and training for 103 women. Culture & Sports: Jordan Ahli Bank won Gold at the 2026 Jordan Diversity Trailblazers Awards, spotlighting women’s workplace advancement.

Jerusalem Alarm: Jordan warned an “imminent” Israeli takeover of the Al-Aqsa Mosque/Temple Mount compound could spark a wider religious conflict, prompting an emergency Arab-Islamic foreign ministers meeting hosted in Amman. Human Rights Watch: UN High Commissioner Volker Türk met Jordanian officials, urging stronger judicial independence, an end to administrative detention, and better safeguards for fair trials. Diplomacy & Funding: Jordan and the U.S. signed a four-year, $354.6m strategic cooperation agreement tied to the Economic Modernization Vision, targeting water security, energy, education, tourism, and economic opportunities. Digital Jordan: Public services digitization rose to 85.5%, with digital ID expansion and more service centers under the Sanad platform. Culture & Community: Jerash Festival drew 226+ events promoting creativity and dialogue, while a Shoman Foundation music evening showcased “Classics of the East and West.” Sports & Tech: Zain Jordan’s esports hub partnered with Mahara Academy to grow local gaming talent. Tourism Spotlight: Aqaba’s coral reefs earned UNESCO World Heritage status, boosting Jordan’s ecotourism push.

Jerusalem Diplomacy: Jordan is calling an emergency Arab-Islamic foreign ministers meeting in Amman on Wednesday over what it calls an “imminent” Israeli takeover risk of al-Aqsa/Temple Mount, warning it could spark a wider religious conflict amid repeated extremist incursions. Regional Coordination: Pakistan’s Ishaq Dar is set to attend and hold bilateral talks as ministers aim to craft a unified position; Turkey’s Hakan Fidan is also expected. Humanitarian Pressure: UNRWA says Israeli forces raided its Qalandiya Training Centre in East Jerusalem five times this year, even as the facility keeps operating. Jordan-US Deal: Jordan and the US signed a four-year $354.6m strategic cooperation agreement focused on water security, economic resilience, energy, education, tourism, and jobs under the Economic Modernisation Vision. Digital Services: Jordan says digital government reached 85.5% of public services digitized, with digital ID and Sanad platform use expanding. Culture & Arts: Jerash Festival returns with 226+ events, while Shoman Foundation hosted a “Classics of the East and West” music evening by Jurf Gentlemen. Tech & Youth: Zain Jordan’s esports hub partners with Mahara Academy to train Jordanian gaming talent.

Jordanian Youth & Health: A new UNICEF and National Council for Family Affairs study in Jordan is mapping substance-use risks among children and youth, finding 7 in 10 participants had tried at least one product and that curiosity and peer/family influence play major roles. Education & Tech: Orange Jordan Foundation, under “Madrasati,” celebrated three schools winning WikiChallenge 2026 through the Digital Schools program, which has equipped public schools with tablets and digital learning packages for thousands of students. Humanitarian Care in Focus: Qatar Charity backed a “Rehabilitation and Prosthetic Limb Fitting” project in Jordan and Gaza to help children regain mobility after conflict-related amputations, combining medical care, physiotherapy, and psychosocial support. Culture & Royal Spotlight: Princess Jalila bint Ali returned to public view at a traditional Chinese music concert in Amman, reigniting interest in the young royal’s education and culture-focused public role. Regional Lifestyle Watch: Travel advice for the Middle East is easing after US-Iran de-escalation talks, with UAE prices reported down more than 25% and many destinations moving toward “business as usual.”

Jordanian Youth Substance-Use Study: A new UNICEF- and NCFA-backed study in Jordan finds 7 in 10 surveyed youth reported trying at least one substance (from cigarettes and hookahs to energy drinks), with curiosity and peer/family influence playing major roles—pushing for more than awareness campaigns. Digital Education Wins: Orange Jordan’s “Madrasati” Digital Schools program celebrated three schools recognized in WikiChallenge 2026, highlighting how tablets and digital packages are reaching thousands of students across Jordan. Humanitarian Rehab for Gaza Children: Qatar Charity is backing a prosthetic limb and rehabilitation project in Jordan and Gaza, aiming to restore mobility and confidence for children affected by war injuries. Refugee Hosting Focus: The Jordan Economic Forum discussed the economic impact of hosting refugees and urged stronger international partnership to support host communities and enable safer, voluntary returns. Culture Spotlight: Italian author Enrico Aragona released “Listening to Silence,” a personal journey along Jordan’s King’s Highway that spotlights landscapes, communities, and daily life beyond typical tourism. Royal Presence: Princess Jalila bint Ali returned to public view in Amman at a traditional Chinese music concert, reigniting interest in her education and culture-focused public role.

Humanitarian Aid in Focus: Qatar Charity is backing a “Rehabilitation and Prosthetic Limb Fitting” project with Restoring Hope Society in Jordan and Gaza, aiming to restore mobility and dignity for children affected by conflict injuries. Education & Tech: Orange Jordan Foundation’s Digital Schools students earned top spots in WikiChallenge 2026, with three Jordanian schools recognized for standout articles on Wadi Rum, Petra, and Umm Qais. Culture Spotlight: Italy’s Enrico Aragona released “Listening to Silence,” a journey along Jordan’s King’s Highway from Amman to Aqaba, highlighting communities and daily life beyond typical tourism. Arts in Jordan: The Jerash Festival closing ceremony wrapped with Jordanian musical performances, including Bashar al-Sarhan and Ghada Abbasi, after Tamer Hosni’s apology led to program adjustments. Local Economy & Refugees: The Jordan Economic Forum discussed the economic impact of hosting refugees and called for stronger international support to sustain Jordan’s responsibility. Regional Tensions: US-Iran talks and Hormuz-related warnings continue to dominate headlines, with Jordan included in fresh travel-security advisories. Business & Services: Imdaad entered Jordan via a joint venture with Clean City to expand municipal cleaning and waste management services across Amman.

Refugee & Economy: Jordan Economic Forum discussed how hosting refugees affects the Kingdom’s economy and services, urging donor countries to meet commitments for a more sustainable partnership. Humanitarian Care in Jordan: Qatar Charity, via Restoring Hope Society, is backing rehabilitation and prosthetic limb fitting for Gaza children in Jordan and Gaza, combining medical care, physiotherapy and psychosocial support. Culture & Arts in Amman: The 7th Amman International Film Festival – Awal Film opened with royal attendance and featured a tribute moment spotlighting veteran diplomat Lakhdar Brahimi at the ceremony. Jerash Festival Closing: Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts wrapped with a Jordanian-themed musical night featuring Bashar al-Sarhan and others, after Tamer Hosni’s apology led to program adjustments. Digital Education: Orange Jordan Foundation celebrated three Jordanian schools winning recognition at WikiChallenge 2026 under the “Digital Schools” program, which equips public schools with tablets and digital learning packages. Music & Heritage: Italian author Enrico Aragona released “Listening to Silence,” a journey along Jordan’s King’s Highway from Amman to Aqaba focused on landscapes, communities and daily life. Local Spotlight: Amman hosted a traditional Chinese music concert, “Harmony Along the Silk Road,” highlighting cultural exchange with live demonstrations of intangible heritage crafts. Regional Tensions: Activists warned there can be no lasting Middle East peace while the US keeps a large military presence, as talks around Iran and the Strait of Hormuz continue to dominate headlines.

Bedouin Culture in Techno: Jordanian artist Yazan Sarayrah releases “Irth-Tronic,” building microtonal techno and microtonal guitar tuning around Arabic maqams and Levantine oral poetry, turning Bedouin heritage into the core structure of each track. Yazidi Memory & Resistance: Sozdar Avesta marks the 12th anniversary of the 2014 Yazidi genocide in Shengal, honoring victims and calling accountability for those behind the “74th Ferman.” Jordan–China Cultural Exchange: A traditional Chinese music concert in Amman, “Harmony Along the Silk Road,” featured live demonstrations of intangible heritage and drew Princess Jalila Bint Ali, the Chinese ambassador, and Jordan’s culture minister. Education Tech for Youth: Orange Jordan Foundation celebrates three schools’ wins at WikiChallenge 2026 under the “Digital Schools” program, highlighting tablets and digital learning for thousands of students. UNESCO Heritage Updates: UNESCO adds 25 new World Heritage Sites globally, while Lebanon’s Mount Amel Castles, Tyre, and West Bank’s Sebastia are listed as “in danger.” Gaza Ceasefire Oversight: The “Board of Peace” is set to oversee Gaza’s disarmament and transition plan, with Hamas agreeing to disarmament as reconstruction costs are estimated at $70B. Travel Disruptions (UAE): UAE airports and major airlines advise passengers to arrive early and check flight status as selected cancellations affect routes including Dubai–Amman and Dubai–Kuwait/Bahrain.

Cultural Exchange: A traditional Chinese music concert in Amman, themed “Harmony Along the Silk Road,” welcomed over 230 guests including Jordanian Princess Jalila Bint Ali and the Chinese ambassador, featuring live demonstrations of intangible heritage like Hainan coconut carving and straw weaving. Education & Youth: Orange Jordan Foundation, under the “Madrasati” umbrella, celebrated three Jordanian schools’ wins at WikiChallenge 2026, highlighting how its Digital Schools program equips public schools with tablets and digital learning tools for thousands of students. Heritage Spotlight: UNESCO added 25 new World Heritage Sites worldwide, while also listing Lebanon’s Mount Amel Castles, Tyre, and the West Bank’s Sebastia as World Heritage Sites in Danger. Regional Tensions: US embassies including in Amman issued fresh advisories as the US-Iran conflict escalates, with Trump signaling possible continued strikes. Gaza Ceasefire Watch: Hamas’ reported agreement to disarmament under the US-backed “Board of Peace” plan puts the new civilian transition and enforcement body to a major test.

Gaza Ceasefire Oversight: The US-backed “Board of Peace” is set to become the key test for enforcing a Gaza deal, as Hamas says it has agreed to a phased disarmament plan while Israel has not commented and implementation hinges on withdrawal and reconstruction. Jordan in the Iran Crossfire: US and Iranian claims are trading fast, with CENTCOM denying Iranian reports about damage to US aircraft at Jordan’s Al Azraq base, as missile and drone attacks keep widening regional risk. Regional Escalation Watch: The Iran-US war is described as spiraling across multiple countries, with strikes and retaliations hitting places including Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Yemen, Jordan, and Egypt—raising fears for energy supplies and prices. Tawjihi Update: Jordan’s Grade 11 Tawjihi exams have wrapped up; results are expected in the second half of August after technical and administrative procedures. Jerash Culture Spotlight: Jerash Festival programming continues to blend heritage and modern sound, with performances highlighting Arabic rhythms meeting jazz. Travel Disruptions: UAE-to-region flight cancellations and updates include routes affecting Amman, as airlines advise passengers to check status and arrive early. LGBTQ+ Community Event: Brighton Pride 2026 details include a parade route and major concert lineup—an international culture moment resonating with Jordanian readers who follow lifestyle and arts.

Jordanian Education: The Ministry of Education says Grade 11 Tawjihi results are expected in the second half of August after exams wrapped up smoothly, with only 55 violations recorded. Regional Culture & Community: A Jerash Festival spotlight on Arabic rhythms and jazz performances, plus multiple festival culture pieces, keeps Jordan’s arts scene in focus. Humanitarian Relief: Tzu Chi Foundation reports hot meals and food support reaching displaced families in Gaza, coordinated with volunteers and school community fundraising. Film & Memory: A new look at Cinema Jenin highlights the people behind Palestinian cinema and the fight to keep culture alive under pressure. Books for Young Readers: WickWick’s War and Peace picture book series—translated into Arabic and delivered via refugee camp readings in Jordan—aims to help children talk about war and kindness. Security & Diplomacy: Jordan remains in the middle of escalating Iran-US tensions, including claims and denials around attacks near Jordanian bases. Tech & Skills: Willis College announces a DND-funded cybersecurity partnership to build a defensive cyber training pipeline for Jordan’s Armed Forces at Al-Hussein Technical University.

Education & Youth: Jordan’s Tawjihi Grade 11 exams have wrapped up, with results expected in the second half of August after the Ministry of Education reports smooth sessions and just 55 recorded violations. Culture & Arts: Jerash Festival continues to spotlight Jordanian and regional creativity, with performances blending Arabic rhythms and jazz, plus sound-and-light storytelling that brings history to life. Regional Security & Diplomacy: Tensions keep rising as the US and Iran trade strikes; Jordan says it intercepted Iranian missiles again, while Qatar and Saudi Arabia condemn renewed attacks affecting Jordan and the wider region. Public Life & Community: A rare open letter has drawn hundreds of Jordanians demanding withdrawal of US forces, adding to the debate over security and sovereignty. Travel & Lifestyle: Jazeera Airways boosts Amman City Airport connectivity to three daily flights, citing strong passenger demand. Sports & Entertainment (global): Jordanian audiences will also be watching big pop-culture and sports headlines this week, from music and film chatter to major league moves.

Education & Youth: Jordan’s Ministry of Education says Grade 11 Tawjihi exams wrapped up smoothly on Thursday, with results expected in the second half of August after just 55 recorded violations. Parliament & Policy: The Lower House Education Committee approved the 2026 Accreditation and Quality Assurance Commission Bill, aiming to strengthen how institutions and programs are evaluated. Culture & Arts: Jerash Festival continues to spotlight Jordanian and Arab creativity, with performances blending Arabic rhythms and jazz, plus multiple festival music and heritage showcases. Security & Regional Ties: Qatar condemned renewed Iranian attacks on Jordanian and Kuwaiti territories, warning of dangerous escalation. Defense & Skills: Canada’s Willis College launched a DND-funded cybersecurity capacity-building partnership in Jordan, training Jordanian Armed Forces through Al-Hussein Technical University. Travel & Lifestyle: Jazeera Airways added capacity on the Amman City Airport route, increasing to three daily flights. Human Rights Watch: A report says Jordan has gone nearly three decades without submitting a new periodic report to the UN on economic, social and cultural rights.