Jordanian Foreign Minister Visits Damascus to Mend Ties After Syria Airstrikes

Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi arrived in Damascus on Monday, less than two weeks after rare tensions flared between Amman and Damascus following Jordanian airstrikes in southern Syria. Upon his arrival at Damascus International Airport, Safadi was received by Syrian Foreign Minister Asad al-Shibani.

Safadi traveled to the Syrian capital to lead the Jordanian delegation at the third meeting of the High Coordination Council between the two nations. The summit gathers ministers and senior officials from both sides, focusing on deepening cooperation in energy, water, transport, and food security, alongside signing memorandums of understanding.

The visit takes place against the backdrop of a diplomatic crisis that erupted in late October when Jordanian warplanes targeted several sites in southern Syria. Amman maintained that the operations targeted ISIS operatives and facilities posing an immediate threat following a deadly attack against Christian worshippers in the Karak region, resulting in the death of over 20 militants and the destruction of a major weapons depot.

Damascus presented a differing account, stating that the airstrikes were conducted without prior coordination and caused the deaths of seven civilians, including women and children. The Syrian Foreign Ministry condemned the action as a violation of sovereignty and summoned the Jordanian ambassador for an official reprimand.

Following intensive diplomatic contacts, both nations agreed to establish a joint committee to investigate the circumstances of the airstrikes and enhance security coordination along the border. The current visit serves as a crucial test for bilateral ties, as Amman and Damascus seek to overcome the friction and resume joint efforts in stabilizing southern Syria and combating cross-border smuggling.