Palestinians in Amman, Jordan: Their Journey and Options

Introduction

The question of how many Palestinians live in Jordan's capital Amman, and why they choose not to move elsewhere, is complex and multifaceted. This article explores the historical context of Palestinian displacement, their current situation in Jordan, and potential options for their future.

Palestinian Displacement and the Exodus

The Exodus of Palestinians began in the 1940s following the establishment of Israel. The Nakba, or Catastrophe, saw the forced displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians from their ancestral homes. Despite being originally from Jordan and other Arab countries, the international community failed to provide them with a separate homeland as promised. Today, many Palestinians continue to live in Jordan, a situation that is often misunderstood and misrepresented.

The Legal and Historical Context

Quora's bot references historical disputes and legal claims. It's essential to note that the State of Palestine, as a formal sovereign entity, does not currently exist, though it is an internationally recognized entity with observer status at the United Nations. The Right of Return, agreed upon by the United Nations, is a fundamental principle that remains contested by Israel.

Some argue that the term "Jordan" is itself a misappropriation, pointing to the historical context of the Hashemite rule in the region. However, the historical claim to the land is not the primary focus for Palestinians who seek to return to their homes. The denial of this right, often described as an apartheid regime, has exacerbated the situation and led to significant displacement and diaspora.

Demographics and Current Situation

Estimating the exact number of ethnic Palestinians in Jordan is challenging due to past naturalization policies. According to various estimates, the percentage of ethnic Palestinians in Jordan might be as low as 45-50%. Many Palestinians who have settled in Jordan over the years, especially those who took Jordanian nationality in the 1920s and 1930s, are considered Jordanian citizens with Palestinian roots.

Historically, many Palestinians who chose to naturalize in Jordan did so before the 1970s. The population statistics from 1960 indicate that while the population of Jordan was around one million, the majority were Jordanian inhabitants, with fewer Palestinian immigrants. Since 1973, the influx of Palestinian refugees has significantly changed the demographic landscape in areas like Amman and Zarqa, where Palestinians are now concentrated.

Notably, Palestinians are heavily concentrated in major cities such as Amman and Zarqa. This concentration has led some to believe there are too many Palestinians in these areas. However, outside of these cities, particularly in less urbanized regions like Ajlun, Karak, Ma'an, and Mafraq, the population is predominantly Jordanian.

Options for Palestinian Population

For Palestinians in Jordan who wish to leave Amman, options include:

Migration to Other Countries: Some Palestinians have chosen to migrate to other countries, either for better economic opportunities or to reunite with families who moved abroad earlier. Resettlement Projects: Various international organizations and non-governmental organizations offer resettlement programs aimed at providing Palestinians with opportunities in different countries. Return to Palestine: For those with the legal right, some Palestinians continue to seek to return to their original homes in the West Bank, Gaza Strip, or East Jerusalem, albeit under challenging conditions.

The road to achieving a solution remains uncertain, as international and regional politics continue to evolve. The international community’s support for the Right of Return remains crucial for addressing the complex issue of Palestinian displacement.

Conclusion

Palestinians in Amman face a complicated situation rooted in historical, political, and legal contexts. Understanding the nuances of their displacement, the limitations of their situation, and the available options is essential to fostering a more informed and compassionate discussion on this humanitarian issue.