Jordanian King Abdullah
Photo: AFP
Israeli arrested in Jordan for insulting king
Amman authorities detain Israeli businessman after learning he made public statements against Abdullah
An Israeli Arab man on a business trip to Jordan was arrested by the state's authorities for speaking ill of King Abdullah II.
During his visit to Jordan, the businessman allegedly made public statements against the king. This was made known to the Jordanian authorities. At the behest of the Israeli's family, a hearing will be held Sunday in a Jordanian court during which it will be ruled whether he will be allowed to return to Israel.
The man's family claimed that he must return to Israel in order to receive medical treatment. The man is being represented by a local lawyer and is staying with relatives in the country.
Foreign Ministry officials said that at least 10 Arab-Israelis have been arrested in Jordan for criminal offenses, such as auto theft. However, the ministry admitted that this case is exceptional and cannot remember a similar one taking place.
The ministry estimated that the Israeli citizen will be released soon and said they are doing everything in their power in order to help the businessman return to Israel.
This is the not the first time that action has been taken against people speaking out against the king in Jordan. Two years ago, a guest of the royal family was sentenced to two years imprisonment after being convicted of sending emails to international destinations that contained "false reports" and damaged the country's honor.
