Al-Rai: Jordan worried of US inspecting ships anchored in Aqaba

Jordan has expressed regret over the intention of the American forces to inspect ships heading to the Jordanian Aqaba port or leaving it, under the pretext of preventing smuggling of the Iraqi oil.

The Jordanian daily al-Rai quoted a well-informed Jordanian source as saying that Jordan was not informed by any US decision to this effect, noting that contacts are continuous with the American side to make sure that this American measure as stated by press reports is incorrect.

The source added that the Jordanian government stressed to the American side its unrest over this measure if it will take place, noting that the measures pursued by Jordan in Aqaba port are very precise and stand against any smuggling operation, noting Jordan's commitment to the sanctions system imposed by the UN against Iraq.