Regional Powers Convene in Amman to Fortify Security Cooperation Amid Escalating Tensions

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – High-ranking officials from Turkey, Jordan, Iraq, Lebanon, and Syria are set to convene in Amman on Sunday for a pivotal regional security meeting, as reported by the Turkish state-owned Anadolu Agency (AA). 

The Turkish delegation, led by Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, includes National Defense Minister Yasar Guler and Intelligence Organization (MIT) head Ibrahim Kalin.

The assembly will bring together foreign and defense ministers, chiefs of general staff, and intelligence heads from the participating nations. Discussions are slated to focus on enhancing collaboration in security, counterterrorism, and combating organized crime, alongside deliberations on broader regional dynamics. This initiative underscores a collective effort to address shared challenges and bolster stability in the Middle East.

The Amman meeting takes place amid increasing security concerns across the region. Syria, still struggling with instability following over a decade of conflict, continues to grapple with the presence of armed groups, smuggling networks, and extremist threats. The meeting is expected to address ongoing efforts to strengthen border security and prevent the movement of militants and illicit arms.

Another key issue on the agenda is counterterrorism cooperation. The resurgence of extremist groups, particularly ISIS, remains a significant challenge. Thousands of ISIS members remain detained in northeast Syria, creating security risks for neighboring countries. Turkey has been advocating for a coordinated approach to prevent the group’s resurgence and ensure stability in the region.

Additionally, Iraq has been facing its own security challenges, including cross-border threats and efforts to stabilize areas formerly under ISIS control. Turkish and Iraqi officials have previously discussed strategies to enhance security along their shared border and prevent the infiltration of militants. The Amman meeting provides an opportunity to further these discussions and explore joint counterterrorism initiatives.

Economic-security cooperation is also likely to be a focal point, particularly regarding trade routes and energy security. Iraq and Jordan have been working on infrastructure projects, including oil pipeline agreements, which require a stable security environment. Ensuring the safety of these projects is crucial for economic growth and regional integration.

With senior intelligence officials participating, the meeting is expected to cover intelligence-sharing mechanisms to counter organized crime, including drug trafficking and arms smuggling. The region has witnessed a rise in illicit trade, often linked to instability in Syria and cross-border criminal networks. Enhanced coordination among the participating nations could lead to more effective measures against such threats.

The Amman Summit marks another step in ongoing diplomatic efforts to navigate regional security complexities. The outcomes of these discussions could shape future collaboration, reinforcing efforts to address terrorism, border security, and organized crime in the Middle East.