US Peace Corps suspends Jordan activities

The US Peace Corps says it is temporarily suspending its program in Jordan because of the “regional environment,” highlighting growing security concerns among some foreigners after Jordan raised its profile in the battle against the Islamic State.

The Peace Corps says 37 volunteers had been working with local communities on youth development, and that all volunteers have left Jordan. Citing the “current regional environment” for the pullout, the agency says it hopes the volunteers can return later.

The Peace Corps announcement comes after the US Embassy in Jordan warned last month of a potential threat of attacks against “high-end malls” in the capital Amman.

Mustafa Hamarneh, a member of Jordan’s parliament, says there is a sense among Jordanians that US officials are exaggerating the possible risk of attacks on foreigners in Jordan. “Malls are full, markets are full,” he said. “There is no general sense in this country that we are in danger.”

Maintaining Jordan’s image as a stable country is critical for the economy, he says.

— AP