Hamas Seeks Expansion Into Jordan Through Muslim Brotherhood: Expert Analysis

Avi Melamed, a former Israeli intelligence official, has warned that Hamas is actively seeking to expand its influence into Jordan through the Muslim Brotherhood in pursuit of its broader goal of establishing a global Islamic caliphate.

Melamed’s statement follows Jordan’s recent ban on the Muslim Brotherhood after authorities uncovered a terror cell allegedly plotting violent attacks. This marks the second such plot in under a year, underscoring the persistent threat within the kingdom. In total, twelve suspects are facing trial on terrorism-related charges after security forces discovered weapons, explosives, and secret missile manufacturing facilities, as well as evidence of sabotage training.

Melamed emphasized that Jordan’s decision to take action reflects the monarchy’s determination to swiftly address national security threats. However, he also pointed out a deeper issue involving Jordan’s internal identity politics. The expert cautioned that the monarchy must strike a delicate balance between Bedouin, Palestinian, Islamic, and Western identities to avoid further internal strife.

“The growing alignment between Palestinian and Islamist factions, combined with increasing Bedouin discontent, represents a serious challenge to the Hashemite monarchy,” Melamed stated in his analysis shared with LMSINT MEDIA.

The expert further noted that Hamas, which has strong roots in the Muslim Brotherhood, views Jordan as a key strategic target in its broader vision of a global Islamic caliphate. Having established its Islamic emirate in Gaza, Hamas’s ultimate goal is to dismantle Israel and expand into Jordan, making the kingdom a “high-value target.”

The recent discovery of a Hamas-linked terror cell serves as a stark reminder of the potential risks, according to Melamed, who previously served as the senior Arab affairs adviser to Jerusalem Mayors Teddy Kollek and Ehud Olmert.

To curb Hamas’s growing influence, Melamed argues that it is crucial to dismantle Hamas’s military infrastructure in Gaza and the West Bank—a view also shared by Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas. Despite this, many Arab leaders, including Jordan’s king, remain hesitant to call for Hamas’s disarmament due to political sensitivities. Melamed warned that this reluctance is proving to be a costly misstep.

Middle East Institute – Hamas and the Muslim Brotherhood

Middle East Politics Overview on LMSINT Media