Talal Ghoneimat: Monitoring the Spread of Fake News and Hostile Narratives Targeting Jordan

As journalists and observers of content on social media, we often come across provocative and offensive news targeting Jordan. We notice the proliferation of numerous websites, pages, and accounts—whether genuine or fake—spreading rumors and false news about Jordan, either intentionally or unintentionally.

This phenomenon is not new; Jordan has faced it for many years. Its primary goal is to tarnish the image of Jordanian institutions, undermine their credibility, and diminish their symbolism.

Given the complex and dangerous regional circumstances affecting the region—and their potential impacts on Jordan—it has become imperative to recognize the gravity of this fake news and the intentions of those behind it. Their aim is clear: to distort Jordan’s image, sow doubts about its positions, and foster confusion and suspicion about its actions.

In a recent episode of his program, the esteemed and influential journalist Hussam Al-Ghuraiba courageously addressed this issue, shedding light on certain institutions and pages and their ideological agendas that target Jordan and its values. I wholeheartedly agree with Al-Ghuraiba and echo his warning against these agendas, especially those propagated with malicious intent. Who benefits from these lies? Only God knows!

While we should not assume ill intent from everyone, there are individuals who unknowingly contribute to spreading these falsehoods. They must be more cautious and reflect on the information they share, as it may unwittingly serve others’ agendas. It is their responsibility to scrutinize the news and data they disseminate, as such information can reach a wide audience and negatively impact Jordan’s image and positions.

For those who act with malice and harbor ill will toward Jordan, combating them requires exposing the truth and intensifying media awareness campaigns by relevant authorities. Reviving the "Haqqak Ta’raf” (Your Right to Know) platform, as suggested by colleague Hussam Al-Ghuraiba months ago, could serve as an effective tool to counter rumors and hostile narratives targeting Jordan.

We need credible information and renewed awareness to navigate this challenging phase safely. Those who fail to realize that information has become a weapon, and that social media platforms have turned into battlegrounds against Jordan, must understand that these platforms are no less dangerous than conventional weapons. They can damage society, threaten our values and principles, and undermine our nation.

We must possess the awareness needed to confront this weapon and remain loyal to Jordan, striving to protect it from all threats, whether from the West, the North, or the virtual world. Truthful information and unwavering faith in our nation and its positions are our tools in this battle.

Jordan has taken bold stances unmatched by many other nations—whether on the political, diplomatic, or humanitarian fronts. It is our duty to appreciate and defend these positions. Defending Jordan’s stances is, in essence, a defense of Jordan itself, while questioning them undermines the nation and risks causing harm.

Let us remain vigilant, proactive, and steadfast in protecting Jordan from all forms of misinformation and malicious intent.