Jordan's Ministry of Interior has imposed an entry and exit ban on 468 people to prevent frequent commercial travels at King Hussein Bridge (Allenby).
The ministry determined that these individuals had traveled multiple times within a short period to profit from price differences at the duty-free shop. The decision aims to prioritize essential travel such as humanitarian aid, health, and education.
This step follows earlier remarks by Interior Minister Mazin al-Farayi, who described the bridge's services as 'garbage,' sparking widespread reaction.
Summer-Long 'Virtual Passenger' Inspections
The Interior Ministry will continue inspections by sending 'virtual passengers' to the bridge during the summer months. This method is intended to measure compliance with current procedures and uncover potential violations.
Operation Against Ticket Black Market: Networks Dismantled
Political analyst Mahir Abu Tair said that Jordanian authorities reviewed repetitive ticket reservations made through the 'JET' transport platform used by travelers to the West Bank and identified 468 individuals. Some individuals had made five or more travel reservations within a short period.
Abu Tair stated that security forces dismantled black market ticket sales networks linked to the electronic platform. As part of the operation, tickets were purchased from brokers and intermediaries at high prices to collect evidence, communication records were documented, and legal proceedings were initiated against those responsible.
Comprehensive Reform and Infrastructure Steps
The ban was imposed after a large security and administrative meeting where the ministry discussed the growing issues at the bridge. The meeting decided on a series of reforms, including increased electronic monitoring, reorganization of reservation mechanisms, improved queue management, and restructuring of some operational routes.
Additionally, it was decided to create special VIP lanes and waiting tents, and to provide expedited processing for humanitarian cases. The government has begun renovating waiting halls, installing modern canopies, expanding passport facilities, and strengthening cargo transport facilities to improve border infrastructure.
Challenging Experience for Travelers
King Hussein Bridge serves as a vital humanitarian corridor for Palestinians as the main crossing point between the West Bank and Jordan. However, travelers complain of exhausting experiences due to long waits and complex procedures. Individual injuries and accidents have also been recorded during severe overcrowding.
Interior Minister al-Farayi emphasized that measures such as prior reservations are not intended to restrict freedom of movement but to manage limited capacity. The Jordanian government notes that factors beyond its control, such as restricted working hours and sudden closures on the Israeli side, cause most of the difficulties, but it continues efforts to improve service quality.
