Jordan Accused of Forcibly Evicting Over 100 Palestinians From Informal Refugee Camp

Amman — Jordanian authorities have forcibly evicted more than 100 displaced Palestinians from an informal refugee camp in the capital, according to a report by Human Rights Watch (HRW).

In a statement released Tuesday, HRW said that the Greater Amman Municipality (GAM) demolished 25 residential structures and several shops in the al-Mahatta camp in November and December 2024. The camp had been home to at least 101 people.

Lack of Notice or Compensation

HRW criticized the operation, saying residents were not provided with adequate consultation, notice, compensation, or relocation assistance prior to the demolitions. According to the group, many of the affected individuals were left without shelter or support as the authorities cleared the area to make way for a new urban redevelopment project.

“The Jordanian government has not only destroyed people’s homes but also failed to provide them with any alternative housing or means to survive,” the report stated.

Vulnerable Displaced Community

The al-Mahatta camp housed Palestinians who were already displaced and living in precarious conditions. Human rights advocates argue that the evictions reflect a broader neglect of displaced and marginalized communities in urban planning decisions.

HRW called on Jordanian authorities to halt further evictions and immediately offer compensation and resettlement aid to the affected families.

No Official Response Yet

As of now, Jordanian officials have not publicly responded to the allegations. However, local authorities had earlier cited infrastructure development and safety concerns as reasons behind the demolition drive.

The incident adds to growing international scrutiny over how Middle Eastern countries are treating displaced Palestinians amid regional instability.