Military veterans and strategic experts affirmed that the Battle of Karameh stands as a pivotal milestone in Jordan's national history. They noted that it redefined the regional balance of power, proving that solid will and meticulous planning can overcome military superiority.
اضافة اعلان
In interviews with the Jordan News Agency (Petra), experts highlighted that the battle was a strategic and psychological turning point that restored confidence following the 1967 setback. It demonstrated the Jordan Armed Forces (JAF) – Arab Army’s capability to manage high-intensity combat through advanced readiness and a steadfast fighting doctrine.
Strategic Insight: Shattering the Myth
Retired Major General Dr. Eng. Hisham Khraisat emphasized that the Arab Army shattered the myth of the "invincible army." He noted that:
Intelligence Superiority: The enemy failed to achieve the element of surprise because Jordanian intelligence accurately read the operational environment early on.
Failed Objectives: The aggressor failed to achieve any of its planned goals across all axes, retreating in defeat against the heroism of the Jordanian soldier.
The Turning Point in Regional Balance
Former Director of Moral Guidance, Retired Brigadier General Mamdouh Al-Amiri, stated:
The battle restored balance to a fractured regional environment.
The JAF adopted a "rebuilding mindset," reorganizing ranks and developing high operational flexibility to counter simultaneous breakthroughs attempted by the enemy.
The Numbers and the Geography of the Battlefield
Strategic Analyst Retired Colonel Dr. Amer Al-Ourtani provided specific data on the scale of the confrontation:
Enemy Forces: 15,000 Israeli soldiers, supported by 270 tanks, 20 helicopters, and 5 fighter jet squadrons.
Tactical Success: Jordan utilized the "concentration of force" principle, turning mandatory corridors into "killing zones."
Losses in 15 Hours: The enemy suffered approximately 250 killed and 450 wounded.
Equipment Destruction: 88 vehicles were destroyed, including 27 tanks left on the battlefield—a first in the history of the Arab-Israeli conflict.
Terrain as a Weapon: The JAF brilliantly utilized the Ghor geography and dense, precise artillery fire to isolate and dismantle attacking formations, forcing Israel to request a ceasefire for the first time.
Political and Psychological Impact
Dr. Issam Malkawi, Professor of Political and Strategic Studies, highlighted that:
Rules of Engagement: The battle redefined these rules, forcing Israel to reconsider the high cost of any ground incursion into Jordan.
Sustainable Deterrence: Karameh established a model for successful defensive warfare, creating long-term deterrence on the Jordanian front and fostering an enduring bond between the leadership, the army, and the people.
