The Unsung Powerhouse of West Asia

Jordan may not dominate headlines the way other West Asian countries do, but it holds an

outsized influence in regional politics. It is a frontline state on the Israel-Palestine issue,

the custodian of Muslim holy sites in Jerusalem, and home to a large number of Palestinian

refugees. In the aftermath of the Gaza conflict and shifting Arab alignments,

Jordan's voice has become even more critical. Modi's visit therefore signals India's

intention to engage directly with the moderate Arab monarchy that often acts as a stabilizing

force in the region.