Jordan’s King Abdullah II is at it again, making headlines at Israel’s expense. The Jordanian monarch warned Jerusalem that as a result of failed attempts to restart negotiations between Israel and the PA (Palestinian Authority), a regional conflict may erupt. In an Arab media interview, the Jordanian leader spoke of growing concerns regarding the ongoing Syrian civil war, but made sure not to permit the Israel/PA conflict fall out of the headlines as well.

Abdullah told the London-based Arabic al-Shark al-Awsat newspaper that he feels if PA residents reach a level of despair regarding the “peace process between Israel and the PA, an Arab Spring revolt might result”.

For Jordan there is much to worry about regarding the conflict in Syria. The country has already taken in 500,000 refugees from Syria, about a third of the total number of Syrians that fled the fighting, and border skirmishes and spill over is becoming increasingly commonplace.

Abdullah welcomes the ongoing shuttle diplomacy efforts by US Secretary of State John Kerry, but did not hesitate to warn the narrow window of opportunity was rapidly closing, warning of the consequences that would result.

“Fading prospects of peace will explode relations between Palestinians and Israelis in a manner emulating the Arab Spring protests, either through a new intifada (uprising) or a new cycle of violence and counter violence,” he said.

The king made a point of reiterating his right and responsibility regarding “East Jerusalem holy sites,” referring to Har Habayis, a right that Israel recognizes. He told the London newspaper that he inherited the right over the site from his forefather, Sharif Hussein bin Ali, who undertook the first renovation at Al-Haram Al-Sharif (Dome of the Rock).

He added that a portion of his responsibilities include securing international guarantees for the protection of the site along with other sites in the eastern capital and warned against “any efforts to jeopardize its historical identity…”

In line with his regular mantra, the Jordanian monarch stressed the need to forge ahead to permit the “Palestinian People” to recognize their right to self determination and statehood.

During his visit, Kerry will be stopping in Jordan and is then expected to arrived in Jerusalem on Thursday, 19 Tammuz 5773.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)