Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Jordan offers partial citizenship to Palestinian Arab refugees but refuses to relinquish
Palestinian territory. In response, the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO) is
formed in 1964, backed by the Arab League.
1967
Israel wins Jerusalem and the West Bank in the Six Day War resulting in another influx
of Palestinians. Al-Fatah dominates the PLO under Yasser Arafat, training guerrillas
for Israeli raids.
1970
Black September results in thousands being injured in clashes between the Jordanian
government and Palestinian guerrillas. Three hijacked aircraft are blown up by the
PLO.
1988
King Hussein relinquishes remaining ties with the West Bank. The focus turns to home
where women are now allowed to vote (from 1989) and political parties are legalised
thereafter.
1990
Saddam Hussein's invasion of Kuwait, supported by the Palestinians, requires careful
diplomacy by King Hussein, who publicly supports Baghdad while suing for peace.
Palestinian Gulf workers flood into Jordan.
1994
A historic peace treaty between Israel and Jordan ends 46 years of war and gives
Jordan a 'special role' over Muslim holy shrines in Jerusalem - straining relations with
Arab neighbours.
1999
King Hussein dies (7 February). His funeral is attended by former and current presid-
ents of Israel and major powers, honouring his role as peace mediator. His son, Abdul-
lah, becomes king.
2000
