In a shocking turn of events, Jordan's Islamic Action Front (IAF), affiliated with the regional Muslim Brotherhood movement, has emerged as the largest party in the country's parliament following the recent parliamentary elections. The IAF secured a staggering 31 seats, as announced by the Jordanian election commission on Wednesday. This marks a significant increase from their previous representation of only eight seats.

The Islamic Action Front garnered support by channeling the public's anger and frustration over Israel's ongoing war against Hamas in Gaza. The party organized numerous pro-Hamas demonstrations throughout Jordan, tapping into the deep-rooted sympathies of the country's large Palestinian population. Interestingly, the IAF even adopted the green triangle, often associated with Hamas, as a symbol during their election campaign.

The election turnout itself, however, has raised concerns as official state-run media reported a meager 32% participation rate. This low voter turnout could be seen as an indication of wider discontent and disillusionment among the Jordanian public.

It is no secret that the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, while maintaining diplomatic relations with Israel and being a staunch U.S. ally, has a general population that largely sympathizes with the Palestinian cause. This sentiment is particularly strong in light of the devastating conflict between Israel and Hamas. The ongoing war has resulted in extensive destruction, with airstrikes from both sides causing significant collateral damage and civilian casualties.

Since the start of the Israel-Hamas war, the Health Ministry in Gaza reports a staggering death toll of over 41,000 Palestinians. Notably, the Ministry does not distinguish between fighters and civilians in its count. The conflict has also forced nearly 90% of Gaza's already vulnerable population, totaling 2.3 million people, to flee their homes, often multiple times.

The war was initially sparked by Hamas-led militants, who launched a deadly attack on October 7, resulting in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people, majority of whom were civilians. The militants also abducted around 250 individuals, with reports suggesting that roughly one-third of them have tragically lost their lives.

The surge in support for the Islamic Action Front within Jordan's parliament serves as a clear reflection of the prevailing public opinion in the country. Despite concentrated governing power resting with King Abdullah II, parliamentary elections are widely seen as a barometer of the people's views and aspirations.

As the IAF assumes a prominent position in Jordan's political landscape, the future trajectory of the country's stance on regional conflicts, particularly the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, remains uncertain. However, the party's increased representation is a strong indicator of the public's desire for a more resolute stance against Israel's actions in Gaza.

It remains to be seen how the newly constituted parliament, with its significant Islamic Party influence, will navigate the delicate balance between Jordan's diplomatic ties and the aspirations of its Palestinian population.

The international community closely watches these developments, aware that the Middle East is once again grappling with unrest and simmering tensions that have the potential to spill over into wider regional conflict.