US Request for Release of Convicted Jordanian-American Citizen Rejected by Jordan

Despite pleas from the United States, Jordan refuses to release Bassem Awadallah, a former high-ranking official imprisoned on charges of plotting against King Abdullah II. The dismissal came even after he began a hunger strike and was hospitalized. His lawyer and family claim his trial lacked due process.

In a recent development, Jordan has reportedly turned down a request from the United States to release Bassem Awadallah, an erstwhile high-ranking Jordanian official currently incarcerated on charges of plotting against King Abdullah II. This information comes directly from the family and attorney of Awadallah, who also holds American citizenship.

Background of the Case

Awadallah has been serving time in a Jordanian prison for over two years now after being found guilty of conspiring against King Abdullah II with none other than the king's own half-brother. He vehemently denies these allegations and his legal team argues that he was convicted as part of a sham trial which lacked due process.

The US Request and Jordan’s Rebuff

According to sources close to Awadallah’s family and his lawyer, in March this year, the US State Department had requested Jordan to release him on humanitarian grounds. The appeal was made shortly after Awadallah started a hunger strike protesting his imprisonment which led to his hospitalization. However, earlier this month, Jordan rejected this request as per John Ashcroft, Awadullah's lawyer.

Critical Remarks by Ashcroft

Ashcroft is not just any lawyer but formerly served as the US attorney general. He did not mince words while criticizing this refusal by Jordan. In particular he pointed out how much aid flows into Jordan from America every year - over 1 billion USD according to figures released by the State Department - implying that it should take heed of requests made by its benefactor nation.

"When our government requested improperly detained fellow citizen, Bassem Awadallah be released, King Abdullah's regime without reason said no", read an official statement issued from Ashcroft's office.

Implications for International Relations

This incident could potentially strain the relationship between Jordan and the United States, two nations that have traditionally been allies. It raises questions about how much influence America has over its Middle Eastern ally and whether it can leverage its considerable financial aid to secure Awadallah's release.

Conclusion

The situation surrounding Bassem Awadallah’s imprisonment remains tense, with his family and lawyer insisting on his innocence while Jordanian authorities remain steadfast in their decision. The rejection of the US request for Awadallah's release seems to underscore a new level of assertiveness from King Abdullah II's regime. As this story continues to unfold, it will be interesting to see how these dynamics play out both domestically within Jordan and internationally in terms of its relations with the United States.