News item | 08-07-2025 | 17:38
“Stability in the Middle East reduces unwanted migration, both to Jordan and to Europe. It helps prevent terrorism and is crucial for free trade.” That said Commander of the Armed Forces General Onno Eichelsheim during his working visit to Jordan. He spoke there last weekend with a few generals and visited training locations. Eichelsheim emphasized the importance of cooperation between the Netherlands and Jordan.
An important part was a visit to it Deep elementthat works as a private company for the Jordanian armed forces. In this project, 250 men build drones for the Jordanian forces and partner countries. They also train military units. Realistic military scenarios are simulated in a practice area of 300 km². Eichelsheim was impressed by the technology and diversity of drones. “We’re going to see if we can work with them in this area.”
He discussed this and more with his Jordanian colleague General Major Yousef Huneiti. The security situation in the region was also discussed, including on the border with Syria. By King Abdullah II Royal Special Forces Command Eichelsheim gained insight into how special troops perform their duties there.
The Netherlands and Jordan: Strategic partners in Middle East
The Netherlands and Jordan have been working intensively for a long time. For example, in the fight against terrorist organization ISIS in Iraq and Syria between 2014 and 2018. The Netherlands then operated with F-16s from Jordan. More recently, Jordan Netherlands helped with the departure of soldiers from Iraq. They were there for NATO mission Iraq, but could not leave because of the closure of the Iraqi airspace. Conversely, the Netherlands helps Jordan by, among other things, improving the quality of identity certificates. The Netherlands also supported the Jordanian armed forces in the construction of the logistics hub.
Evacuation of citizens
Eichelsheim: “Stability in the Middle East is important for Europe. As a maritime trade nation, the Netherlands must seize every opportunity to strengthen cooperation with the friendly and reliable Jordan.”
The General expressed his appreciation for the help that Jordan has offered several times. This happened, for example, with humanitarian drops above Gaza with transport helicopters and transport aircraft and in the evacuation of citizens from Sudan.
The Netherlands remains committed to peace and safety in the region. Further cooperation with Jordan is being investigated. This includes drone technology, humanitarian commitment, training and non -commissioned training courses.