NATO steps into the Middle East-North Africa

Brussels [Belgium], July 13: The decision was discussed by members at last year's North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) summit and approved at this year's session, Breaking Defense reported on July 12.
According to a NATO statement on July 10, this decision marks an important milestone in the deepening strategic partnership between Jordan and the Western alliance. The liaison office will focus on strengthening NATO cooperation with Middle Eastern and North African countries.
Although not a member of NATO, Jordan was the only Middle Eastern country to help the US and its allies intercept hundreds of Iranian missiles and drones that attacked Israel in April.
Mr. David Des Roches, associate professor at the Center for Near East and South Asia Security Studies (based in the US), said that NATO's decision is symbolic, recognizing Jordan as an important regional partner for NATO countries.
"Few countries in the region are closer to NATO's interests, values and capabilities than Jordan," added Mr. Roches.
In a statement, NATO said the liaison office would enable regular interaction between the alliance and Jordanian authorities, contributing to a better common understanding of the national and regional context.
Observers say the establishment of this new office will help NATO increase its communication capabilities and promptly update developments in the region, especially in the context of tensions in the Red Sea and in the Gaza Strip
Source: Thanh Nien Newspaper