What's happened
US Ambassador Holtsnider has engaged extensively with Jordanian communities, breaking traditional diplomatic norms amid regional tensions over US support for Israel. His visits, including tribal and community events, have sparked parliamentary questions and online controversy, reflecting broader regional sensitivities and US diplomatic strategies.
What's behind the headline?
Holtsnider's strategy exemplifies a shift towards 'modern diplomacy' that emphasizes personal presence and grassroots engagement. This approach aims to read public sentiment beyond official channels, but risks politicizing diplomatic roles and provoking backlash in a highly charged environment. The controversy underscores the delicate balance US diplomats must maintain in regions where regional conflicts, especially over Israel and Palestine, influence public opinion. His visibility could either soften US image or deepen distrust, depending on regional reactions. The debate in Jordanian parliament highlights concerns over adherence to diplomatic norms, but Safadi's defense suggests this outreach is routine. Ultimately, this approach will likely intensify regional scrutiny of US intentions and could influence future diplomatic conduct in volatile contexts.
What the papers say
The New Arab reports that Holtsnider's visits have sparked debate in Jordanian parliament, with some questioning their coordination with the foreign ministry and adherence to diplomatic norms. The article notes that his outreach is seen by supporters as humanizing US diplomacy, but critics view it as image management amid regional anger over US support for Israel. Meanwhile, The Times of Israel highlights regional tensions, with Saudi Arabia maintaining a firm stance against normalization with Israel, emphasizing that peace depends on a final Palestinian state solution. Prince Turki's comments reveal Saudi skepticism about Israel's current government and its commitment to peace, reflecting broader regional reluctance. The articles contrast US diplomatic innovation with regional resistance, illustrating the complex geopolitics shaping Middle Eastern diplomacy today. The timing of these stories suggests a broader regional pushback against perceived US and Israeli policies, with diplomatic gestures being scrutinized for their sincerity and strategic value.
How we got here
Holtsnider arrived in Jordan in October 2025, adopting a high-profile approach to US diplomacy by visiting tribal councils, markets, and community events across the kingdom. This marks a departure from typical low-profile diplomatic conduct, aiming to gauge public sentiment amid regional unrest over US backing for Israel. His activities have drawn both praise for humanizing diplomacy and criticism for breaching norms, amid ongoing regional tensions and debates over US influence.
Go deeper
More on these topics
-
Saudi Arabia, officially the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, is a country in Western Asia constituting the bulk of the Arabian Peninsula.
-
Israel, formally known as the State of Israel, is a country in Western Asia, located on the southeastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea and the northern shore of the Red Sea.