King Hussein and the presidents: Jordan and American relations since 1967

Abstract

The following examines the relationship between the United States and Jordan after 1967. It focuses on the leadership of the US starting with the Nixon administration and ending with King Hussein of Jordan's death during the Clinton administration. It argues that King Hussein became a vital ally to the United States in preventing the expansion of the Soviet Union during the Cold War. Jordan's role as an American ally during the Cold War was particularly important because of the inherent hostility of the Arabs towards the US because of its support of Israel. Jordan became an important piece of the American strategy to stop the spread of the Soviet Union in this vital region. In addition, because of Hussein's practical nature and desire to work with both the US and Israel, Jordan became an important element for American efforts to find a peaceful solution to the conflicts between Israel and the Arabs. Hussein used his role to secure Jordan as an important ally of the United States and that close relationship remains twenty-years after his death. In return for his efforts, the United States granted Jordan military, diplomatic, and economic aid that allowed for the survival of Hussein's Hashemite dynasty. While ideologically compatible with the US goals in the region, Hussein's need for American support led him to align with American interests. Hussein's actions during the period are important to understand the development of the American relationship with Jordan and the broader Middle East along with broader American policy in the region.