Famous Jordanian Leaders

Elijah, a Jewish prophet and miracle worker in ancient Israel, defended the worship of the Hebrew God against the Canaanite deity Baal. Known for performing miracles like resurrection and calling down fire from the sky, Elijah led a school of prophets and had a devoted disciple named Elisha. His prophesied return is seen as a precursor to the coming of the Messiah in various faiths. In Islam, Elijah is recognized as a prophet and messenger of God. Elijah's significance is also acknowledged in Christianity, where he is associated with John the Baptist and the Transfiguration of Jesus.

Prince Faisal bin Al Hussein has served in various professional roles, including as regent during his brother's absences abroad. He has displayed a commitment to public service and leadership, contributing significantly to the governance and stability of the country. His experience in serving as regent demonstrates his dedication to fulfilling important duties within the royal family and the broader government structure. Prince Faisal bin Al Hussein's professional life reflects his active engagement in supporting his brother and the monarchy during times of need.

Abdullah Ensour is a Jordanian economist who served as the 40th Prime Minister of Jordan from October 2012 to May 2016. With a background in economics, he has held multiple cabinet positions within the Jordanian government, showcasing his expertise and experience in public administration. Throughout his career, Ensour has been actively involved in shaping Jordan's economic policies and governance, contributing significantly to the country's political landscape as a veteran politician.

Prince Hashim Al Hussein is actively involved in various charitable and philanthropic initiatives within Jordan and globally. He has a strong interest in environmental conservation and sustainable development efforts. Prince Hashim also serves as a member of several national and international organizations, focusing on areas such as youth empowerment, education, and cultural preservation. Additionally, he has represented Jordan at numerous official events and functions, promoting diplomacy and cooperation on both regional and international levels.

Khaled Mashal is a Palestinian political leader who rose to prominence as the head of the militant organization Hamas. He became the leader of Hamas' Kuwaiti branch in 1987 before joining the politburo in 1992. Following the assassinations of key Hamas figures, Mashal assumed leadership of the organization. Under his guidance, Hamas achieved a significant electoral victory in 2006. Living in exile due to the Six-Day War, Mashal played a crucial role in Hamas' external leadership until stepping down in 2017.

George Habash was a Palestinian physician who founded the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP). After graduating from medical school, he worked in Palestinian refugee camps in Jordan and later in Syria and Lebanon. In 1967, he established the PFLP as a leftist movement opposing Israel's existence. Habash orchestrated the Dawson's Field hijackings in 1970, leading to his exile to Lebanon. He remained steadfast against a two-state solution, even after the Oslo Peace Accords were signed in 1993. Habash resigned as secretary general of the PFLP in 2000 due to ill health and passed away in 2008.

Zaid ibn Shaker had a distinguished career as a Jordanian military officer and politician. He served as the commander-in-chief of the Jordanian military for over twelve years and held the position of the 27th Prime Minister of Jordan three times. With a background in tank command at various levels, he rose to become chief of staff for the armed services and was eventually appointed as field marshal. Zaid ibn Shaker's close ties to the Royal family and his role as an adviser on national security underscored his significant influence over military policies.

Marouf al-Bakhit was a Jordanian politician who served as Prime Minister of Jordan twice. He held the position from November 2005 to November 2007 and then again from February 2011 to October 2011. In addition to his role as Prime Minister, al-Bakhit also served as the Jordanian ambassador to Israel and the national security chief. Known for his focus on maintaining security and stability in Jordan, he was appointed Prime Minister in response to significant events such as the 2005 Amman bombings and widespread protests in 2011.

Nayef Hawatmeh is a prominent Jordanian politician known for leading the Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine. With a career spanning several decades, he has been a key figure in Palestinian politics and the wider Arab world. Hawatmeh has been actively involved in advocating for Palestinian rights and has played a significant role in shaping the political landscape of the region. His leadership of the DFLP has established him as a respected and influential figure in the struggle for Palestinian liberation.

Dina Kawar is a distinguished Jordanian diplomat with an extensive career in international relations. She has held key positions such as Ambassador of Jordan to France, Portugal, and the United States, as well as serving as the Permanent Representative of Jordan to the United Nations. Notably, she became the first Arab woman to preside over the United Nations Security Council. Ambassador Kawar has been recognized for her contributions with prestigious awards and decorations from various countries and organizations. Her impactful leadership and diplomatic skills have made her a respected figure in the global diplomatic community.

Rima Khalaf Hunaidi is a Jordanian national who held the position of Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) from 2010 to 2017. During her tenure, she was known for her commitment to promoting economic and social development in the region. In 2017, she gained international attention when she resigned from her position rather than retract a report that accused Israel of establishing an apartheid regime, showcasing her dedication to upholding principles of justice and human rights.

Maha Ali is a Jordanian industrial engineer and politician, known for her role as Minister of Industry, Trade and Supply in Jordan. She first held this position in 2015-2016 following a cabinet reshuffle. Ali was reappointed to the same ministerial role in October 2020 under Prime Minister Bisher Al-Khasawneh's administration, serving until October 2021. Her professional life has been marked by a dedication to enhancing Jordan's industrial and trade sectors through policy-making and strategic decision-making.

Bahjat Talhouni was a prominent Jordanian political figure who served as the 14th Prime Minister of Jordan for six terms between 1960 and 1970. He also held various significant positions such as Minister of the Interior and of Justice, chief of the Royal Court, and President of the Senate of Jordan. Talhouni played a crucial role during a turbulent period marked by conflicts between the Jordanian government and Palestinian guerrillas. He was known for his diplomatic approach and efforts to maintain peace and stability in the region.

Lina Mazhar Annab is a Jordanian businessperson, politician, and diplomat with a background in tourism and antiquities. She has held various significant roles, including serving as the Minister of Tourism and Antiquities in Jordan and as the ambassador to Japan. Annab is a Georgetown University graduate and has been involved in leadership positions such as General Manager at Zara Investment Company. She has also been active in international cultural and diplomatic events, such as leading the Jordanian delegation to UNESCO's World Heritage Committee and organizing the first Opera Festival in the Arab world.

Sa'id Pasha al-Mufti was a prominent Jordanian political figure of Circassian origin. He served as the 9th Prime Minister of Jordan for three terms between 1950 and 1956. Al-Mufti was known for his independent political stance and held various ministerial positions, including Interior Minister and Minister of Finance. He also served as the President of the Senate of Jordan for multiple terms. Al-Mufti's contributions to Jordan were honored with the naming of a street in Amman after him, where the Embassy of Bosnia and Herzegovina is located.

Hala Zawati is a Jordanian politician who has held the position of Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources in two separate cabinets led by Prime Ministers Bisher Al-Khasawneh and Omar Razzaz. Prior to her ministerial roles, she served as President of the Jordan Strategy Forum and provided consultations on energy affairs for various entities including the House of Representatives, Jordanian and international companies, and organizations such as the US Agency for Development, German Development Agency, Japanese Development Agency, European Union, and United Nations Development Program.