A Jordanian state security court has sentenced brothers Musa and Mohamed Abu Aqoub to two years in prison for “impeding relations” with a foreign state after they distributed posters criticizing a visit by US President Donald Trump to the Middle East last year. Reports state the charges stemmed solely from the posters, which authorities deemed harmful to diplomatic relations, a criminal offense under Jordanian law used in cases involving speech or actions considered damaging to ties with foreign governments. 

Jordan’s State Security Court is a special tribunal that handles cases involving national security, terrorism, and certain political offenses, and it has long faced criticism from human rights groups for trying civilians and restricting due-process safeguards. Legal analysts note that provisions criminalizing acts that “impair relations with a foreign state” have historically been applied in cases involving political expression, activism, or publications tied to foreign policy issues. 

The sentencing comes amid heightened political sensitivity in Jordan surrounding regional diplomacy and public protest related to international conflicts. Authorities maintain such laws are necessary to protect national interests and diplomatic stability, while critics argue they can be used to suppress dissent and restrict freedom of expression, particularly in cases tied to foreign policy criticism.