Jordanian authorities have blocked access to 12 websites, including the UK-based news outlet Middle East Eye, just days after it published an investigation alleging that the Jordanian government charged exorbitant fees for facilitating international aid deliveries to Gaza.
The Middle East Eye report, citing sources from multiple aid organizations, claimed that Jordan was charging $2,200 per aid truck and between $200,000 to $400,000 for airdropping humanitarian supplies over Gaza—despite some planes carrying less than half a truckload of aid. The Jordanian Hashemite Charity Organization (JHCO), which oversees aid deliveries, rejected the claims but admitted that actual costs were even higher—ranging from $210,000 to $450,000 per drop.
Following the publication, Jordan’s Media Commission ordered the blocking of 12 websites for allegedly “spreading media poison and attacking Jordan and its national symbols,” as reported by local newspaper Al-Dustur. Blocked sites include the Arab Post, Rasif22, and Cairo-based Rasd. Middle East Eye stated it was not notified of the ban, and calls and emails to the Media Commission went unanswered.
Editor-in-chief David Hirst defended the report, saying it was “impeccably researched” and vital for transparency in global aid efforts. “Blocking access only damages Jordan’s image further,” he added, noting that content would still reach Jordanians through social media.
The crackdown comes amid broader repression in Jordan. Since the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel, Jordanian authorities have detained at least 1,500 people, according to Amnesty International, for participating in pro-Palestinian demonstrations or posting online support. Several have been charged under Jordan’s controversial cybercrime law.
Jordan has also faced criticism over reports of companies allegedly transporting goods to Israel during the Gaza conflict. Founded in 2014, Middle East Eye has faced similar censorship across the Middle East, including in Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
