Jordan Announces Reopening of Key Border Crossing
The King Hussein Bridge, also known as the Allenby Bridge, a crucial border crossing between Jordan and the Israeli-occupied West Bank, was announced by Jordan to reopen for passenger traffic on Sunday, September 21, 2025. The announcement came from Jordan's Public Security Directorate (PSD) on Saturday, September 20, 2025, following a closure that had lasted several days. While passenger movement was set to resume, cargo traffic through the bridge was to remain suspended 'until further notice'.
Closure Followed Deadly Shooting Incident
The border crossing had been shut down on Thursday, September 18, 2025, after a security incident involving a Jordanian aid truck driver. The driver reportedly opened fire at the crossing, resulting in the deaths of two Israeli soldiers. Following the attack, Israeli authorities closed the crossing, prompting Jordan to halt all travel across the bridge. Jordanian officials condemned the shooting, describing it as a 'violation of the law' and a 'threat to Jordan's interests' and its efforts to deliver humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip.
Brief Reopening and Subsequent Israeli Re-closure
Despite Jordan's announcement and the initial resumption of passenger services on Sunday morning, the situation at the bridge remained volatile. The Palestinian Crossings and Borders Administration had indicated that the bridge would operate until 1:30 PM on Sunday. However, reports from the same day confirmed that Israeli authorities subsequently re-closed the King Hussein Bridge, turning back buses carrying passengers who had already departed from the Jordanian side. The reasons for this immediate re-closure by Israel were not immediately specified, creating renewed uncertainty for travelers.
Vital Lifeline for West Bank Palestinians
The King Hussein Bridge holds significant importance as the only official border crossing between the West Bank and Jordan. It serves as the primary gateway for Palestinians residing in the West Bank to travel abroad without having to pass directly through Israel. The crossing is also utilized by tourists. Its intermittent closures and the current suspension of cargo traffic highlight the ongoing complexities and sensitivities surrounding movement and trade in the region.
5 Comments
Coccinella
Jordan's condemnation of the shooting was important for regional stability, yet Israel's swift re-closure undermines any perceived progress. This highlights the deep mistrust and lack of coordinated control over this vital crossing.
Muchacho
Hope this gets sorted quickly for everyone's sake. The bridge is vital.
ZmeeLove
Responsible action to ensure no further incidents. Better safe than sorry.
Habibi
Unilateral decisions like this only breed more resentment. Terribly handled.
Mariposa
Palestinians are always the ones suffering. This is unacceptable.