Arnold Roth, whose daughter Malki was killed in the 2001 Sbarro pizzeria bombing in Jerusalem, has publicly condemned Jordan for continuing to harbor Ahlam Tamimi, the terrorist who orchestrated the attack. Roth's criticism challenges the kingdom's stance on international justice and raises questions about its ties to Washington.
Tamimi was released from an Israeli prison in 2011 as part of a swap for captured soldier Gilad Shalit. She has since lived freely in Jordan, where she has given interviews celebrating the attack. Roth argues that Jordan's refusal to extradite or prosecute Tamimi undermines efforts to hold terrorists accountable.
A challenge to international justice norms
Jordan's sheltering of Tamimi sets a problematic precedent. By granting safe haven to a convicted terrorist, the kingdom effectively challenges the principle that those who commit mass-casualty attacks should face justice. The United States has designated Tamimi as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist, and the FBI has her on its Most Wanted list. Yet Jordan has repeatedly declined requests to hand her over.
This stance clashes with broader international efforts to combat impunity. If a U.S.-allied state can harbor a wanted terrorist without consequence, other nations may feel emboldened to do the same. The message, critics say, is that political convenience can override legal obligations.
Strain on US-Jordan relations
The dispute complicates an already delicate partnership. Jordan is a key U.S. ally in the Middle East, relying on billions in American aid and security cooperation. But the Tamimi case has become a persistent irritant. Washington has pressed Amman to extradite her, but Jordan maintains that it has no extradition treaty with the U.S. covering the case.
Roth's public condemnation adds pressure on the Biden administration to take a harder line. While the U.S. has sanctioned Tamimi and offered a reward for her capture, Jordan has not budged. The standoff risks eroding trust between the two governments and fueling criticism from American lawmakers who question the value of the alliance.
Prisoner swap ethics under scrutiny
The 2011 swap that freed Tamimi has long been controversial. In exchange for Shalit, Israel released more than 1,000 Palestinian prisoners, including militants involved in deadly attacks. Roth and other victims' families have argued that such trades reward terrorism and put future lives at risk.
Jordan's decision to welcome Tamimi after the swap amplifies those concerns. Roth has said the kingdom is effectively endorsing the attack on the Sbarro restaurant, which killed 15 people, including children. By refusing to detain her, Jordan allows a convicted bomber to live openly and even appear in media, celebrating her role.
Roth has vowed to continue campaigning for Tamimi's extradition or prosecution. Whether Jordan will shift its position remains an open question. The Jordanian government has not issued a formal response to the latest criticism.
