Jordanian Security Forces Detonate Iran-Linked Explosives in Amman Warehouse

Jordanian security forces on Monday uncovered and safely detonated explosives hidden in a commercial warehouse in an industrial zone southeast of Amman, according to security sources. These explosives are believed to be part of an Iran-linked plot aimed at destabilizing Jordan, a crucial ally of the United States.

Witnesses reported a large-scale security operation in the Abu Alanda area, which was sealed off by security forces following the discovery. This operation comes two days after authorities announced the detonation of explosives uncovered in another part of the capital.

Authorities revealed that the explosives found on Monday were stored by the same group responsible for the cache discovered on Saturday in a densely populated residential area near a military airport used by U.S. military aircraft. Details regarding the identity of the perpetrators and whether any arrests have been made are being withheld pending the completion of ongoing investigations.

Over the past year, Jordanian authorities have thwarted numerous attempts to smuggle weapons into the country, often linked to pro-Iranian militias in Syria. These attempts have included smuggling rocket launchers and explosives, with some of the arms believed to be intended for the Israeli-occupied West Bank. Several Jordanians with ties to Palestinian militant groups have been arrested in connection with these smuggling efforts.

Security officials have classified the recent incidents as terror-related, citing the significant quantities of explosives involved. They believe the operations are part of Iran's clandestine strategy to recruit agents for sabotage missions within Jordan, aiming to destabilize the nation, which is a key regional ally of the United States.

Jordan hosts over 3,500 American troops across various bases. Since the outbreak of conflict between Israel and Palestinian militants in Gaza in October, Jordan has increasingly been targeted by Iranian-backed groups operating from neighboring Syria and Iraq.

Why This Matters: This development underscores the persistent threat posed by regional instability and the ongoing efforts by pro-Iranian factions to destabilize U.S. allies in the Middle East. Jordan's strategic position and its role as a host to American military forces make it a crucial player in maintaining regional security.

Key Takeaways:

• Jordanian security forces discovered and detonated explosives in a warehouse in Amman.
• The explosives are linked to an Iran-backed plot aimed at destabilizing Jordan.
• The incident follows a similar discovery two days earlier in a residential area.
• Jordan has thwarted numerous smuggling attempts by pro-Iranian militias over the past year.
• Authorities have not yet disclosed details on the perpetrators or arrests made.