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Are Pro-Jordanian Political Forces Organizing among Palestinians in Hebron?
(Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs-Hebrew) Pinhas Inbari - Traditional tribal figures in the Hebron area of the West Bank appear to be organizing a pro-Jordanian political force in opposition to the Palestinian Authority (PA). A video on the Facebook page of the "Tribal Council of Mt. Hebron" shows a recent meeting of the group that opened with the Jordanian anthem and under the Jordanian flag, with no PA flag visible. Relations between Jordan's King Abdullah and PA leader Abbas broke down half a year ago after senior Jordanian religious leaders visiting the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem were made to leave, including Jordan's Chief Kadhi and Minister of Religion. Later, the PA refused to let Jordan implement the agreement it made with U.S. Secretary of State Kerry, with Israel's approval, to place streaming video cameras on the Temple Mount. In light of the tension between Jordan and the PA, supporters of Jordan in Hebron began to organize to advance their interests outside the framework of the PA. The writer is a veteran Palestinian affairs correspondent who formerly reported for Israel Radio and Al Hamishmar newspaper.