Revision as of 21:29, 25 December 2024 editMalkawi99 (talk | contribs)Extended confirmed users1,030 edits ←Created page with '{{Infobox civilian attack | title = Assassination of Wasfi Al-Tal | location = Sheraton Hotel, Cairo, Egypt | date = {{start date and age|1971|11|28}} | partof = Palestinian resistance movements, Jordanian-Palestinian tensions, and Arab Cold War | image = Wasfi al-Tal moments before his assassination.jpg | caption = Wasfi al-Tal, right, Few moments before his Assassination in Cairo, Egypt, on November 28, 1971. | time = Approx. 5...'Tags: possible WP:BLPCRIME issue Visual edit: Switched | Latest revision as of 23:04, 26 December 2024 edit undoCitation bot (talk | contribs)Bots5,406,376 edits Added work. | Use this bot. Report bugs. | Suggested by BorgQueen | Linked from User:AlexNewArtBot/GoodSearchResult | #UCB_webform_linked 97/1396 | ||
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{{Short description|1971 murder in Cairo, Egypt}} | |||
{{Infobox civilian attack | {{Infobox civilian attack | ||
| title = Assassination of Wasfi |
| title = Assassination of Wasfi Tal | ||
| location = Sheraton Hotel, ] | | location = Sheraton Hotel, ] | ||
| date = {{start date and age|1971|11|28}} | | date = {{start date and age|1971|11|28}} | ||
| partof = Palestinian resistance movements, ], and ] | | partof = Palestinian resistance movements, ], and ] | ||
| image = Wasfi al-Tal moments before his assassination.jpg | | image = Wasfi al-Tal moments before his assassination.jpg | ||
| caption = Wasfi |
| caption = Wasfi Tal (right) shortly before his Assassination in Cairo, Egypt, on November 28, 1971. | ||
| time = Approx. |
| time = Approx. 3:45 pm (local time) | ||
| timezone = UTC+2 | | timezone = UTC+2 | ||
| coordinates = {{Coord|30|2|19.97|N|31|13|11.75|E|format=dms|display=inline,title}} | |||
| map = {{infobox mapframe|coord={{Coord|30|2|19.97|N|31|13|11.75|E}}|zoom=13}} | |||
| target = {{Plainlist| | | target = {{Plainlist| | ||
* ] (Prime Minister of Jordan) | * ] (Prime Minister of Jordan) | ||
}} | }} | ||
| type = {{Flatlist| | | type = {{Flatlist| | ||
Line 19: | Line 22: | ||
}} | }} | ||
| fatalities = {{plainlist| | | fatalities = {{plainlist| | ||
* Wasfi |
* Wasfi Tal (died shortly after the attack) | ||
}} | }} | ||
| injuries = {{Plainlist| | | injuries = {{Plainlist| | ||
* Jordanian Foreign Minister ] | * Jordanian Foreign Minister ] | ||
}} | }} | ||
| perps = Palestinian Black September |
| perps = Palestinian ] | ||
{{Plainlist| | {{Plainlist| | ||
* Izzat Rabah | * Izzat Rabah | ||
Line 32: | Line 35: | ||
* All of them planned with ] | * All of them planned with ] | ||
}} | }} | ||
| motive = Revenge for the Black September conflict, during which the Jordanian military, under his leadership, violently suppressed Palestinian militant groups | | motive = Revenge for the ] conflict, during which the Jordanian military, under his leadership, violently suppressed Palestinian militant groups | ||
}} | }} | ||
On November 28, 1971, ], the ], was assassinated by |
On November 28, 1971, ], the ], was assassinated by four Palestinian gunmen while he was on his way to an important meeting at the ] in Cairo, Egypt. Tal, a prominent military and political figure, was shot at close range by a member of the Palestinian ], a group seeking revenge for his role in suppressing Palestinian militants during the 1970 ] conflict. His death sent shockwaves through Jordan and the broader Middle East, marking the end of a career that had been central to the stability of Jordan during a tumultuous period. | ||
Wasfi Tal was a prominent Jordanian military officer and statesman who held crucial positions within the government and military. He was a symbol of Jordanian strength and leadership, particularly during turbulent times marked by political instability and conflicts involving neighboring countries. While Tal was a figure of stability for many Jordanians, he was also seen as a key player in the monarchy's policies toward Palestinians, which many saw as oppressive. This, combined with his perceived association with the ruling establishment, made him a target for those opposed to Jordanian policies.<ref name=":Al Jazeera" /> | |||
The assassination of Tal was part of a larger cycle of violence and political maneuvering within the region. It reflected the deepening rift between the Jordanian monarchy and Palestinian factions. Tal’s killing was a direct response to his role in the Jordanian government’s military crackdown on Palestinian groups, which had been seen as a betrayal by some members of the Palestinian resistance.<ref name=":Washington Post">{{Cite news |last=Lewis Jr |first=Jesse W. |title=Jordan Premier Assassinated by Palestinian Extremist Group: Four Arrested in Attack at Cairo Hotel |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/inatl/longterm/flash/articles/nov96/jordan71.htm |newspaper=]}}</ref> While his death further complicated Jordan's internal political landscape, it also underscored the volatile relationship between Jordan and Palestinian factions that would continue to shape the country’s politics for years to come.<ref name=":Al Jazeera" /> | |||
== Background == | |||
After the assassination of ] in 1960, an audio recording of Wasfi Tal emerged, in which he predicted his own death. He said:<ref>{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=_CDN0MZtRK8 |title=وصفي التل يتحدث عن اغتياله واغتيال هزاع المجالي |date=2015-11-28 |last=ZweinaTv |access-date=2024-12-25 |via=YouTube}}</ref> | |||
<blockquote>The battle is against nonsense and forgery, and the battle cannot afford mistakes. There must be casualties in the battle. As for Jordan specifically, one of its victims was Hazza' Majali, and I might be a victim, and someone else might become a victim; this is a battle. If we are right, it is our duty to make this sacrifice. The conspiracy that killed Hazza' Majali did not weaken us, and the one that will kill me will not weaken us. The list will continue; if a master dies, another master will rise. There is inevitability for goodness, truth, and integrity.</blockquote> | |||
=== Prime ministership === | |||
] | |||
] (Chairman of the PLO) in December 1970 during the ceasefire negotiations.]] | |||
Wasfi Tal’s political career took a decisive turn in the late 1960s. His role as a political leader gave him significant influence over national security and defense policy. In 1967, Jordan became embroiled in the ], a conflict between Israel and several Arab states, including Jordan. During the war, Jordan was heavily defeated by the ], and ] was captured by Israel. This loss significantly affected Jordan's political landscape, leading to tensions between the Jordanian government and Palestinian factions, as well as domestic discontent.<ref name=":Al Jazeera" /> | |||
After the 1967 war, ] sought to reorganize Jordan's political leadership. In 1970, following the outbreak of civil conflict between the Jordanian government and Palestinian militant groups, Tal played a crucial role in helping to stabilize the country. This period, known as "]", saw a violent confrontation between the ] and the ] (PLO), resulting in the expulsion of the PLO from Jordan.<ref name=":AlMamlaka TV">{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YnXU-HAGAA8 |title=وثائقي {{!}} وصفي التل |date=2018-11-28 |last=AlMamlaka TV - قناة المملكة |trans-title=Documentary {{!}} Wasfi Al-Tal |access-date=2024-12-25 |via=YouTube}}</ref> | |||
King Hussein and Wasfi Tal tried to negotiate with the PLO (the ]). But the war continued for many months and hostility towards the Jordanians continued to overthrow the ] rule. Several Jordanian homes were killed and looted. Eventually, Wasfi Tal allied with ], ], King Hussein bin Talal and ].<ref name=":AlMamlaka TV" /> Tal issued decisions to end the war and under the instructions of Tal and Habis Majali (the army commander at the time), the armed groups in Jordan were eliminated, where 3,400 people from the PLO were killed,<ref name="Massad">{{cite book |last=Massad |first=Joseph Andoni |author-link=Joseph Massad |url=https://archive.org/details/colonialeffectsm00mass_429 |title=Colonial Effects: The Making of National Identity in Jordan |publisher=] |year=2001 |isbn=0-231-12323-X |location=New York |page= |url-access=limited}}</ref><ref>Bailey, p. 59, ''The Making of a War'', John Bulloch, p. 67. Longman Publisher. First Edition</ref> and 600 Syrians,<ref name="Arab Armies 22">{{cite book |last=Katz |first=Samuel M. |url=https://archive.org/details/arabarmiesmiddle02katz |title=Arab Armies of the Middle East Wars 2 |publisher=Osprey Publishing |year=1995 |isbn=0-85045-800-5 |location=New York |page= |url-access=limited}}</ref> and 120 tanks and ] and carriers were lost.{{sfn|Shlaim|2008|p=334}} On the Jordanian side, 537 people were killed.<ref name="joca">{{cite web |title=Duty Martyrs |url=https://www.jaf.mil.jo/Contents/Martyr_of_Dutyar.aspx |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171019145334/https://www.jaf.mil.jo/Contents/Martyr_of_Dutyar.aspx |archive-date=19 October 2017 |access-date=31 August 2017 |work=JAF}}</ref> | |||
Following the suppression of the Palestinian uprisings, Wasfi Tal became one of King Hussein’s closest advisors. His leadership in the military and his handling of the political crisis led to his appointment as the Prime Minister of Jordan in 1970. Tal’s tenure as Prime Minister was marked by efforts to stabilize Jordan’s internal situation and rebuild the country's economy and military infrastructure. He was known for his pragmatic approach to governance and his efforts to modernize Jordan.<ref name=":AlMamlaka TV" /> | |||
=== Tal's policies === | |||
] | |||
As Prime Minister, Wasfi Tal prioritized the strengthening of Jordan’s economy and the enhancement of its military capabilities. He also worked towards improving relations with both Western and Arab nations. His foreign policy was characterized by a delicate balancing act between maintaining close ties with the United States and other Western powers while preserving Jordan’s position within the Arab world. After dismantling armed groups in Jordan and safeguarding the country's prestige and stability, Wasfi Tal's popularity surged, and he was widely regarded by Jordanians as a national hero.<ref name=":AlMamlaka TV" /> | |||
Tal's domestic policies were centered around economic development, infrastructure projects, and maintaining internal security. He recognized the importance of addressing the grievances of both Jordanians and Palestinians within the country, although tensions between these two groups remained high. However, his role in the handling of Palestinian issues, particularly during the ] and the ] conflict, made him a controversial figure.<ref name=":AlMamlaka TV" /> While he was seen as a protector of Jordan’s sovereignty, many Palestinian groups and their supporters viewed him as a symbol of the monarchy's opposition to Palestinian rights. Because of Tal's actions towards the PLO, hostility arose between Tal and some Arab rulers and leaders.<ref name=":AlMamlaka TV" /> | |||
=== Opinions of Arab heads of state toward Tal === | |||
After the events of Black September, there was a strong animosity from Arab leaders toward Wasfi Tal: | |||
* {{Flag icon|Palestine}} ''']''': A deep enmity developed between Yasser Arafat and Wasfi Tal after Tal's involvement in the killing of ] in the Ajloun forests.<ref name=":AlMamlaka TV" /> Tal opposed any organization operating in Jordan on behalf of another state, fearing that the activities of the fedayeen might turn against the ] regime instead of focusing on the Israeli occupation.<ref name=":AlMamlaka TV" /> He also mentioned that, after the ], the fedayeen did not carry out any operations for about 18 months, which angered them.<ref name=":AlMamlaka TV" /> | |||
* {{Flag icon|Egypt}} ''']''': Gamal Abdel Nasser’s hatred for Wasfi Tal began when Tal opposed the Y]. At that time, Tal was the only Arab prime minister to stand against the revolution, alongside Nasser and ].<ref>{{Cite thesis |last=Orkaby |first=Asher |title=The International History of the Yemen Civil War, 1962-68 |date=2014 |url=https://cmes.fas.harvard.edu/publications/international-history-yemen-civil-war-1962-68?utm_source=chatgpt.com}}</ref> During the 1967 War, Wasfi Tal clearly and unequivocally insisted on not entering the war under any circumstances, as the political and military conditions of the Arab countries at the time predicted defeat.<ref>{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-mKl5OCQU90 |title=د. محمود الدباس: وصفي التل رفض أن يخوض الاردن حرب 1967 - عين الحدث |date=2019-11-26 |last=Alordonalyoom |trans-title=Dr. Mahmoud Al-Dabbas: Wasfi Al-Tal refused for Jordan to enter the 1967 war - Ain Al-Hadath |access-date=2024-12-25 |via=YouTube}}</ref> Furthermore, for Jordan, the catastrophe would be the occupation of the ] and ]. He disagreed with the timing of the war, not the principle of fighting.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Nasser's Gamble: How Intervention in Yemen Caused the Six-Day War and the Decline of Egyptian Power {{!}} Department of Near Eastern Studies |url=https://nes.princeton.edu/publications/nassers-gamble-how-intervention-yemen-caused-six-day-war-and-decline-egyptian-power?utm_source=chatgpt.com |access-date=2024-12-25 |website=nes.princeton.edu}}</ref> On June 4, 1967, the day before the war, Tal was agitated and anxious, frequently stating that an imminent disaster was approaching the Arab nation, and the only way to avoid it was to stay out of the war. He responded to inquiries by saying, "If we enter the war, defeat and catastrophe are inevitable."<ref name=":Al Jazeera">{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3eERS0uWTYU&rco=1 |title=الجريمة السياسية اغتيال الشهيد وصفي التل |date=2021-03-22 |last=وصفي التل |language=ar |publisher=Al Jazeera |trans-title=The political crime of the assassination of the martyr Wasfi al-Tal |access-date=2024-12-25 |via=YouTube}}</ref> Tal also wanted to establish the Arab Science Center in the Levant, not in Egypt, as he did not trust Egypt, which angered Nasser. At one point, Nasser publicly declared, "I have no plan to liberate Palestine."<ref name=":Al Jazeera" /> Wasfi Tal recorded and broadcast this statement on radio stations, further fueling the public's disdain for Nasser. In response, Nasser accused Tal of being a British and American spy, declaring, "I cannot cooperate with Wasfi".<ref name=":Ammar Taqi">{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fVbLrB4WQTI |title=اغتيال وصفي التل في القاهرة |date=2024-06-19 |last=Ammar Taqi {{!}} عمار تقي |trans-title=Wasfi al-Tal's assassination in Cairo |access-date=2024-12-25 |via=YouTube}}</ref> | |||
* {{Flag icon|Egypt}} ''']''': There was intense hatred between Anwar Sadat and Wasfi Tal, stemming from the Yemen War of 1962. Tal stood with King Hussein of Jordan, ], and ] in support of the ] against President Nasser, resulting in the death of 26,000 Egyptian soldiers.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2015 |title=The Proxy of My Proxy: Saudi Arabia vs. Egypt in North Yemen |url=https://adst.org/2015/07/the-proxy-of-my-proxy-saudi-arabia-against-egypt-in-north-yemen/?utm_source=chatgpt.com |access-date=2024-12-25 |website=]}}</ref> Sadat also supported the ] during Black September,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Black September: The Origins of Palestinian Militancy |url=https://greydynamics.com/black-september-the-origins-of-palestinian-militancy/?utm_source=chatgpt.com |access-date=2024-12-25 |website=Grey Dynamics |language=en-US}}</ref> and sought to have Wasfi Tal killed, a sentiment later confirmed by his wife, ], in an interview.<ref name=":Al Jazeera" /> | |||
* {{Flag icon|Syria}} ''']''': Hafez al-Assad despised King Hussein and his government, accusing them of collaborating with Israel during the 1967 war. Assad also supported the fedayeen during Black September and fought in the October War with Sadat, excluding Jordan.<ref name=":Al Jazeera" /> | |||
* {{Flag icon|Libya}} ''']''': Relations between Jordan and Libya were strained at the time, with no agreement between Muammar Gaddafi and King Hussein. After Wasfi Tal's assassination, Gaddafi threatened to withdraw Libya from the Arab League if the killers of Tal were not released.<ref name=":Al Jazeera" /> | |||
== Preparations == | |||
A week prior to the incident, ] (GID) intercepted coded messages indicating an impending assassination of Wasfi Tal. Shortly thereafter, additional information about the plot emerged. The day before his departure, Natheer Rshaid, the ], made a personal effort to warn Tal and urged him not to proceed with the trip.<ref>{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OTnySrBCHiY |title=السطر الأوسط {{!}} تفاصيل اغتيال رئيس الوزراء الأردني الأسبق وصفي التل على يد الفدائيين الفلسطينيين |date=2022-01-14 |last=السطر الأوسط |access-date=2024-12-25 |via=YouTube}}</ref><ref name=":Ammar Taqi" /> He told him: "The Nasserist regime is planning to assassinate you". However, Tal chose to ignore the warning and insisted on going ahead, replying: "No one dies before their time, and lives are in the hands of God".<ref>{{cite book |author1=محاسيس |first=نجاة سليم |title=الوفاء الهاشمي : لوحات رائعة من النضال و الكفاح للهاشمين الأحرار بين عامي 1935 - 1999، الجزء الثاني |date=2011 |publisher=دار زهران للنشر والتوزيع، |location=Amman |page=366 |trans-title=Hashemite Loyalty: Wonderful Portraits of the Struggle and Fighting of the Free Hashemites between 1935 - 1999, Part Two}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=على عتبات وصفي |url=https://www.ammonnews.net/index.php?page=article&id=250563 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181114060528/https://www.ammonnews.net/index.php?page=article&id=250563 |archive-date=14 November 2018 |access-date=2018-11-14 |journal=Ammon News}}</ref> | |||
] | |||
On November 28, 1972, Wasfi Tal traveled from Jordan to Egypt to attend the Arab Summit, joined by Foreign Minister Abdullah Salah and Jordanian Ambassador to Egypt Ali al-Hayari.<ref>{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QzcKU2EnZGE |title=قصة اغتيال وصفي التل |date=2011-11-28 |last=islahnews |publisher=] |trans-title=The story of the assassination of Wasfi al-Tal |access-date=2024-12-25 |via=YouTube}}</ref> There were concerns about several actions taken by the Egyptian government that suggested opposition to Tal. For instance, upon the arrival of the plane at ], there was no security detail present to welcome Tal.<ref>{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MqCHKbon40c |title=خبر اغتيال وصفي التل رئيس وزراء الأردن عام 1971 |date=2011-11-25 |last=petranews jordan |trans-title=News of the assassination of Wasfi al-Tal, Prime Minister of Jordan in 1971 |access-date=2024-12-25 |via=YouTube}}</ref> This oversight puzzled Fayez al-Louzi, Tal's military aide,<ref>{{Cite news |title=وفاة العميد المتقاعد فايز اللوزي |trans-title=The death of retired Brigadier General Fayez Al-Lawzi |url=https://www.khaberni.com/news/%D9%88%D9%81%D8%A7%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B9%D9%85%D9%8A%D8%AF-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%85%D8%AA%D9%82%D8%A7%D8%B9%D8%AF-%D9%81%D8%A7%D9%8A%D8%B2-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%84%D9%88%D8%B2%D9%8A-361217 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20231128065023/https://www.khaberni.com/news/%D9%88%D9%81%D8%A7%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B9%D9%85%D9%8A%D8%AF-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%85%D8%AA%D9%82%D8%A7%D8%B9%D8%AF-%D9%81%D8%A7%D9%8A%D8%B2-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%84%D9%88%D8%B2%D9%8A-361217 |archive-date=2023-11-28 |access-date=2024-12-25 |work=Khaberni |language=ar}}</ref> as it appeared that the Egyptian government had not even sent vehicles to transport him. Consequently, Ambassador Ali al-Hiyari arranged for a car from a local Egyptian car rental service.<ref name=":Al Jazeera" /> | |||
The Egyptian authorities permitted the perpetrators to carry their weapons into the airport, citing their affiliation with the Palestine Liberation Organization and asserting the right to carry arms and move freely. Members of the Palestine Liberation Organization entered the airport using forged Syrian, Lebanese, and Sudanese passports under assumed identities, which went unnoticed by airport security.<ref name=":Al Jazeera" /> | |||
During the meeting, Tal presented a detailed report to the Arab defense ministers, focusing on strategies for confronting Israel in 1971. Central to his address was a call for the establishment of a "fourth front," which he defined as a popular uprising within Palestine. He emphasized the need for Arab nations to unite in supporting this initiative, urging the ministers to ensure the provision of financial resources, media coverage, and logistical backing for Palestinian forces. He framed this effort as the "revolution of the occupied territories," underlining its importance in the broader struggle for Palestinian self-determination.<ref name=":Al Jazeera" /> After the meeting adjourned, Tal departed with his guard, Foreign Minister Abdullah Salah, and Ambassador Ali al-Hayari, heading to the Sheraton Hotel.<ref>{{Cite web |title=IMPLICATIONS OF WASFI TAL'S ASSASSINATION |url=https://www.cia.gov/readingroom/docs/CIA-RDP80B01439R000500080003-8.pdf |website=www.cia.gov |publisher=]}}</ref> | |||
== Assassination == | |||
] | |||
Shortly after Wasfi Tal and Abdullah Salah stepped out of the car near the Sheraton hotel entrance, gunfire erupted at 3:45 pm Cairo time.<ref name=":Washington Post" /> Tal was shot by a Palestinian gunman and collapsed to the ground. A total of 14 bullets were fired, three of which hit Tal.<ref name=":Al Jazeera" /> The gunman approached Tal and shot him at close range.<ref name=":nytimes">{{Cite news |date=1971-11-30 |title=Assassination in Cairo |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1971/11/30/archives/assassination-in-cairo.html |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20230427061431/https://www.nytimes.com/1971/11/30/archives/assassination-in-cairo.html |archive-date=2023-04-27 |access-date=2024-12-25 |work=] |language=en}}</ref> One of the assassins said to him as he lay dying, “Abu Ali Iyad didn’t die, and Palestinians are not cowards”.<ref name=":Al Jazeera" /> Following this, Ezzat Rabah approached Tal and emptied his pistol into his body. Ziad Al-Helou, stationed outside the hotel, fired additional shots.<ref name=":Al Jazeera" /> As Tal lay dying, Mundhir Khalifa knelt and lapped with his tongue the blood flowing across the marble floor, as he said at the trial, "I'm the one who drank his blood."<ref>{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TJRUAACocyo |title=SYND 19-2-72 ASSASSINS OF TEL STAND TRIAL |date=2015-07-21 |last=AP Archive |access-date=2024-12-25 |via=YouTube}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |author=Bruce Hoffman |date=December 2001 |title=All you need is love: How the terrorists stopped terrorism |url=https://www.theatlantic.com/past/issues/2001/12/hoffman.htm |newspaper=The Atlantic}}</ref><ref name="lastwords">{{cite book |last=Shair |first=Kamal A. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=QjgMqGK1YUCpg&q=%22They%27ve+killed+me.+Murderers%2C+they+believe+only+in+fire+and+destruction%22 |title=Out of the Middle East: the emergence of an Arab global business |year=2006 |page=240}}{{Dead link|date=November 2023|bot=InternetArchiveBot|fix-attempted=yes}}</ref><ref name=":4">{{Cite magazine |last=Morris |first=Benny |date=2011-02-03 |title=Fallible Memory |url=https://newrepublic.com/article/82520/kai-bird-mandelbaums-gate |access-date=2024-01-27 |magazine=The New Republic |issn=0028-6583}}</ref> During the attack, many of Tal’s guards and the Arab ministers present sought shelter in the chaos.<ref name=":Washington Post" />] | |||
The first bullet struck Tal’s left hand, while the second pierced his left arm and traveled into his heart, causing fatal internal bleeding. Foreign Minister Abdullah Salah was also injured, sustaining a torn pant leg in the attack. A doctor from the hotel confirmed Tal’s death after approximately 12 minutes. His wife, Saadya Al-Jabri, was on the fourth floor of the hotel when she received the news of her husband’s shooting. Overcome with grief and hysteria, she had to be attended to by the hotel’s medical team.<ref name=":Al Jazeera" /> Tal’s body was later transferred to a military hospital in Cairo.<ref name=":Washington Post" /> | |||
Emergency responders arrived about 40 minutes after the incident, while Egyptian security forces and police showed up only 15 minutes later, despite the Dokki Police Station being located near the scene. This delay angered many Jordanians, who accused the Egyptian authorities of collusion and complicity in the assassination. Egyptian security forces eventually apprehended the perpetrators and launched an investigation. The Black September Organization claimed responsibility for the attack. Initial suspicions fell on ], but investigations later ruled out his involvement. Egyptian newspapers prominently reported that the primary suspect and mastermind of the operation was ], who had managed to evade capture.<ref name=":Al Jazeera" /><ref>{{cite news|access-date=2017-11-19 |archive-date=3 June 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180603212809/http://islahnews.net:80/23783.html |language=ar-jo |title=تفاصيل اغتيال الشهيد وصفي التل |url=http://islahnews.net/23783.html |url-status=dead}}<!-- auto-translated from Arabic by Module:CS1 translator --></ref> | |||
At the time of Tal death, an unloaded ] gun was found in his right pocket. His other pockets contained 60 Egyptian pounds (Tal's daily allowance), a ], and a tobacco tin.<ref name=":AV media">{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J_IO9CryW4A |title=الرجل الذي أبكى ملك الأردن.. ليس ملكا ولا أميرا ويعشقه الأردنيون، رئيس وزراء الشعب "وصفي التل" |date=2021-11-25 |last=Step News Agency - وكالة ستيب نيوز |access-date=2024-12-25 |via=YouTube}}</ref> Also found was a paper listing the names of individuals, including "Abu Ali," "Abu Hassan," and a man from the Zahran family, who was found to be managing a farm. Next to each name was an amount of money, with the largest amount listed being 11 dinars.<ref name=":AV media" /> It was later revealed that this was a debt list, showing that Tal owed some farmers who had brought fertilizer for his farm in Mafraq. The titles of "Abu Ali" and "Abu Hassan" referred to poor individuals to whom Tal sent financial aid from his monthly salary.<ref>{{cite news|access-date=2017-11-14 |archive-date=24 November 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171124051540/http://www.garaanews.com/هذا-ما-وجد-في-جيب-الشهيد-وصفي-التل-بعد-استشهادة-مباشره- |journal=جرآءة نيوز |title=هذا ما وجد في جيب الشهيد وصفي التل بعد استشهادة مباشره !! |url=https://www.garaanews.com/%D9%87%D8%B0%D8%A7-%D9%85%D8%A7-%D9%88%D8%AC%D8%AF-%D9%81%D9%8A-%D8%AC%D9%8A%D8%A8-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B4%D9%87%D9%8A%D8%AF-%D9%88%D8%B5%D9%81%D9%8A-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AA%D9%84-%D8%A8%D8%B9%D8%AF-%D8%A7%D8%B3%D8%AA%D8%B4%D9%87%D8%A7%D8%AF%D8%A9-%D9%85%D8%A8%D8%A7%D8%B4%D8%B1%D9%87-}}<!-- auto-translated from Arabic by Module:CS1 translator --></ref><ref>{{cite web|access-date=2017-11-14 |archive-date=19 July 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190719163409/http://www.jbcnews.net/mobile/article/166502-ماذا-وجد-في-جيب-وصفي-التل-رئيس-الوزراء-الاردني-الاسبق-لحظة-استشهاده |first=جي بي سي |last=نيوز |title=جي بي سي نيوز - JBC News - ماذا وجد في جيب وصفي التل (رئيس الوزراء الاردني الاسبق) لحظة استشهاده ؟؟ |url=http://www.jbcnews.net/mobile/article/166502-ماذا-وجد-في-جيب-وصفي-التل-رئيس-الوزراء-الاردني-الاسبق-لحظة-استشهاده |website=www.jbcnews.net|date=28 November 2015 }}<!-- auto-translated from Arabic by Module:CS1 translator --></ref><ref>{{cite news|access-date=2017-11-14 |archive-date=17 July 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190717175752/http://alnasnews.com.jo/online/local/54757.html |date=2015-11-28 |journal=وكالة الناس الاخبارية |language=ar-AR |title=هذا ما وجد في جيب الشهيد وصفي التل بعد استشهادة مباشره !! - وكالة الناس الاخبارية |url=https://alnasnews.com.jo/online/local/54757.html}}<!-- auto-translated from Arabic by Module:CS1 translator --></ref><ref>{{cite web|access-date=2017-11-14 |archive-date=15 November 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171115083107/http://www.almadenahnews.com/article/432476 |first=المدينة |last=نيوز |title=المدينة نيوز - ماذا وجد في جيب وصفي التل لحظة استشهاده ؟؟ |url=https://www.almadenahnews.com/article/432476 |website=www.almadenahnews.com|date=28 November 2015 }}<!-- auto-translated from Arabic by Module:CS1 translator --></ref> | |||
== Immediate aftermath == | |||
] | |||
The assassination of Wasfi Tal shocked both the Jordanian public and the broader Arab world. King Hussein, deeply affected by the loss of his close advisor and friend, declared a national period of mourning. The assassination was also seen as a turning point in the relationship between the Jordanian monarchy and Palestinian factions, as it further deepened the divide between the two groups. ] described the incident that day:<ref name=":nytimes" /><blockquote>.. this cowardly murder in a Cairo hotel can hardly aid the cause of the Palestinian Arabs, which the assas sins profess to champion. It is another sordid example of the tendency of some Palestinians toward self‐destruc tion and of the persisting capacity for mischief of the extremist elements whose organized military strength in Jordan was so effectively decimated under Mr. Tal's...</blockquote>In the immediate aftermath of the assassination, the Jordanian government launched an investigation into the attack. The assassin was quickly identified as a member of the Palestinian Black September group, and Jordanian authorities worked closely with Egyptian officials to apprehend those responsible for orchestrating the murder.<ref name=":Al Jazeera" /> | |||
] remained wanted by the Jordanian judicial system until his death in 1991. Meanwhile, the Egyptian authorities released the perpetrators of the assassination without punishment or trial, a move widely seen as evidence of Nasserist regime complicity. More significantly, some claim that Egyptian officials allowed the assassins to bring their weapons into the country upon their arrival by plane, further implicating them in the operation.<ref name=":Al Jazeera" /> | |||
The assassination also marked a significant turning point in Jordanian-Palestinian relations. While King Hussein vowed to continue his policy of stability and national unity, the killing of Tal further strained the already fragile relationship between the Jordanian government and Palestinian factions. It also prompted Jordan to adopt a more hardline stance in dealing with Palestinian militant groups.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Petra |date=2024-11-28 |title=53rd Anniversary of Wasfi Al-Tal's Assassination: A Legacy of Leadership and Patriotism |url=https://www.fananews.com/language/en/53rd-anniversary-of-wasfi-al-tals-assassination-a-legacy-of-leadership-and-patriotism/ |access-date=2024-12-25 |website=Fana News |language=en}}</ref> | |||
After the death of Wasfi Tal, the ] declared a period of mourning for forty days.<ref name=":Washington Post" /> School attendance was suspended for three days, and some university professors refrained from giving lectures.<ref>{{cite news |date=29 November 1971 |title=صفحة اغتيال وصفي التل |trans-title=Wasfi al-Tal's assassination page |url=http://alrai.com/uploads/images/2016/11/27/32323.jpg |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181116173459/http://alrai.com/uploads/images/2016/11/27/32323.jpg |archive-date=16 November 2018 |work=]}}</ref><ref>{{استشهاد|مسار=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gDfTWdRjbOg&app=desktop|عنوان=د.أسامة فوزي # 493 - وصفي التل ... الحكاية من اولها|تاريخ=2017-11-28|تاريخ الوصول=2018-11-16|الأخير=Arab Times|مسار أرشيف=https://web.archive.org/web/20191207064339/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gDfTWdRjbOg|تاريخ أرشيف=7 ديسمبر 2019}}</ref> Some university students, including those from the ], engaged in riots and prevented professors from conducting lectures.<ref name=":Washington Post" /> Every year, Jordanian university students commemorate his assassination and chant in his honor. The "New Wasfiyun" and "Sons of the Farmers" movements were formed in the universities.<ref>{{Cite web |title=الوصفيون الجدد.. أردنيون "أبناء حراثين" يبحثون عن مُخلص |url=https://www.roayahnews.com/articles/2018/08/29/6218/%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%88%D8%B5%D9%81%D9%8A%D9%88%D9%86-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AC%D8%AF%D8%AF-%D8%A3%D8%B1%D8%AF%D9%86%D9%8A%D9%88%D9%86-%D8%A3%D8%A8%D9%86%D8%A7%D8%A1-%D8%AD%D8%B1%D8%A7%D8%AB%D9%8A%D9%86-%D9%8A%D8%A8%D8%AD%D8%AB%D9%88%D9%86-%D8%B9%D9%86-%D9%85%D9%8F%D8%AE%D9%84%D8%B5 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20190717174538/http://www.roayahnews.com/articles/2018/08/29/6218/%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%88%D8%B5%D9%81%D9%8A%D9%88%D9%86-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AC%D8%AF%D8%AF-%D8%A3%D8%B1%D8%AF%D9%86%D9%8A%D9%88%D9%86-%D8%A3%D8%A8%D9%86%D8%A7%D8%A1-%D8%AD%D8%B1%D8%A7%D8%AB%D9%8A%D9%86-%D9%8A%D8%A8%D8%AD%D8%AB%D9%88%D9%86-%D8%B9%D9%86-%D9%85%D9%8F%D8%AE%D9%84%D8%B5 |archive-date=2019-07-17 |access-date=2024-12-26 |website=www.roayahnews.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2019-07-14 |title="الوصفيون الجدد" يشهرون أنفسهم كتيار |url=http://www.kermalkom.com/post.php?id=242926 |access-date=2024-12-26 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190714115537/http://www.kermalkom.com/post.php?id=242926 |archive-date=14 July 2019 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2019-04-24 |title="الوصفيون الجدد" ينعشون الإحياء الشعبي لذكرى رحيل وصفي التل في الأردن: مقالات ونشاطات وزيارات جماعية للضريح وشريط ذكريات حول ما قاله لمدير المخابرات قبل مقتله في القاهرة عام 1971 - رأي اليوم |work=رأي اليوم |url=https://www.raialyoum.com/index.php/%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%88%D8%B5%D9%81%D9%8A%D9%88%D9%86-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AC%D8%AF%D8%AF-%D9%8A%D9%86%D8%B9%D8%B4%D9%88%D9%86-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A5%D8%AD%D9%8A%D8%A7%D8%A1-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B4%D8%B9%D8%A8%D9%8A/ |access-date=2024-12-26 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190424001855/https://www.raialyoum.com/index.php/%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%88%D8%B5%D9%81%D9%8A%D9%88%D9%86-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AC%D8%AF%D8%AF-%D9%8A%D9%86%D8%B9%D8%B4%D9%88%D9%86-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A5%D8%AD%D9%8A%D8%A7%D8%A1-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B4%D8%B9%D8%A8%D9%8A/ |archive-date=24 April 2019 }}</ref> | |||
=== Investigations === | |||
Following Tal's assassination, the Jordanian government dispatched the Deputy Director of Intelligence to observe the investigations for eight days; however, he was denied access to any information related to the case.<ref name=":Al Jazeera" /> | |||
=== Burial === | |||
] | |||
Wasfi Tal's body was transferred from the military hospital in Cairo, after an autopsy was performed, to the airport. From there, it was flown by a special military aircraft to Amman on the night of November 28, 1971. King Hussein bin Talal, who mourned him deeply, was there to receive the body and offered condolences to the Jordanian people. During the funeral, many prominent Jordanians, including King Hussein, were seen crying.<ref>{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ySgOYWZ8iSE |title=King Hussein of Jordan Attends Funeral of Slain Premier Wasfi Tal {{!}} November 1971 |date=2019-09-19 |last=Adeyinka Makinde |access-date=2024-12-26 |via=YouTube}}</ref> He was buried in the Royal Cemetery after the ] in Amman on November 29.<ref name=":nytimes" /><ref name="dnews">{{cite news |date=29 November 1971 |title=Avenge Rebel's Death |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=q8lhAAAAIBAJ&sjid=fX8DAAAAIBAJ&pg=3129,7410379&dq=assassinated+palestinian+leaders&hl=en |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191216200409/https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=q8lhAAAAIBAJ&sjid=fX8DAAAAIBAJ&pg=3129,7410379&dq=assassinated+palestinian+leaders&hl=en |archive-date=16 December 2019 |access-date=15 December 2012 |journal=] |location= |agency=]}}</ref> | |||
== Trial == | |||
] | |||
A few days after the operation, the accused appeared in the High Court of Justice. Media noted their smiles, elegant suits and colorful ties, and that they raised their hands in a victory salute. The event was also attended by lawyers from Algeria, Egypt, Libya, Syria, and Palestine, who sought to analyze the Jordanian regime's treatment of Palestinians, rather than the criminal culpability of the accused individuals.<ref name=":Al Jazeera" /> | |||
Palestinian lawyer ] said, "Let us prosecute Jordan from this court." He added, "These four are Ashmawi, and in Egypt, you call the killer of a killer Ashmawi. These four are the Ashmawi of the Arab nation".<ref>{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kRe6ZQNmoCY |title=SYND 21/2/72 CAIRO TRIAL OF MEN ACCUSED OF THE ASSASSINATION OF JORDANIAN PREMIER AL TAL |date=2015-07-23 |last=AP Archive |access-date=2024-12-25 |via=YouTube}}</ref> This statement changed the course of the investigation, and the High Court of Justice requested that the files of Black September be included. As a result, the case took on a new political direction. In their view, the assassination of Wasfi Tal was an act of vengeance for the massacres that occurred during Black September. Thus, the case of Wasfi Tal shifted from a criminal case to a political one.<ref name=":Al Jazeera" /> | |||
Many Arab authorities defended the accused killers, including Egyptian President ] and Syrian President ]. ], in a statement to a visiting delegation, said that the young men had only done what Anwar Sadat had wanted to do himself. Libya wanted the release of the four men and threatened to withdraw from the ].<ref name=":Al Jazeera" /> | |||
=== Sentencing session === | |||
On February 19, 1972, the judges entered the sentencing session, the accused shouted, "Long live free, Arab Palestine!" At that point, the trial turned into a political rally. The judge sat down and said, "After reviewing the documents, hearing the arguments, and deliberating legally, and in accordance with Articles 145 and 146 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, the court has decided to release the accused".<ref>{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yoLBo4RjB6Y |title=LIB 2-3-72 WASFI TEL ASSASSINS RELEASED ON BAIL |date=2015-07-21 |last=AP Archive |access-date=2024-12-25 |via=YouTube}}</ref><ref>{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YqIjT5UPEUE |title=النطق بالحكم على المجرمين المتورطين باغتيال الشهيد وصفي التل |date=2021-03-23 |last=وصفي التل |publisher=Al Jazeera |trans-title=Sentencing the criminals involved in the assassination of the martyr Wasfi al-Tal |access-date=2024-12-25 |via=YouTube}}</ref> | |||
== Legacy == | |||
]), established in 1972 by the Forestry Directorate, ].]] | |||
Wasfi Tal remains a figure of importance in Jordan’s modern history. While his legacy is complicated by his role in the Black September conflict and his association with the ], he is remembered by many as a capable and dedicated leader who worked tirelessly for the welfare of his country. His assassination, although tragic, further solidified his status as a martyr in the eyes of most Jordanians, particularly those who viewed him as a protector of Jordanian sovereignty and stability.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-12-24 |title=Black September {{!}} Organization, Attacks, & Facts {{!}} Britannica |url=https://www.britannica.com/topic/Black-September-political-organization-Palestine?utm_source=chatgpt.com |access-date=2024-12-26 |website=www.britannica.com |language=en}}</ref> | |||
In the years following his assassination, Jordan continued to grapple with the complex political and social issues surrounding Palestinian rights and the role of Palestinian groups in the region. King Hussein, despite the loss of his trusted advisor, maintained his leadership of the country and worked to stabilize the nation. In the years following Al-Tal’s death, Jordan continued to experience political instability, including the ] and the subsequent peace process with Israel. Internationally, Al-Tal’s assassination underscored the difficulties facing the Arab world in achieving unity and stability. It also drew attention to the ongoing struggle between competing factions within the Palestinian movement and the ways in which these factions used violence to further their political objectives.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2015-03-20 |title=Assassination of Jordan's Premier Seen As Blow to Arab Unity to Coordinate Military Action Against I |url=https://www.jta.org/archive/assassination-of-jordans-premier-seen-as-blow-to-arab-unity-to-coordinate-military-action-against-i?utm_source=chatgpt.com |access-date=2024-12-26 |website=Jewish Telegraphic Agency |language=en-US}}</ref> | |||
To honor his contributions, several landmarks bear his name, including a forest and an amphitheater at the ], and ].<ref>{{Cite web |title=حقائق وأرقام، كلية العلوم، الجامعة الأردنية |trans-title=Facts and Figures, Faculty of Science, University of Jordan |url=https://science.ju.edu.jo/ar/arabic/Pages/FactsAndFigures.aspx |access-date=2024-12-26 |website=science.ju.edu.jo |language=en-us}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=المركز الإعلامي، جامعة جدارا |trans-title=Media Center, Jadara University |url=https://www.jadara.edu.jo/newscenter.php?type=mod_eventcenter&evid=2936 |access-date=2024-12-26 |website=JDU}}</ref> Numerous streets and squares across Jordan also commemorate him. Al-Tal inspired many Jordanian poets, who composed elegies mourning his loss and celebrating his values. Prominent singers like ] and ] performed songs in his honor.<ref>{{Cite web |title=وكالة رم : عبده موسى يرثي وصفي التل أقبل علينا الضحى 1971 |url=https://www.rumonline.net/article/312470 |access-date=2024-12-26 |website=وكالة رم للأنباء - أخبار عاجلة، آخر الأخبار، صور وفيدوهات للحدث. |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=رثاء الشهيد وصفي التل صوت عمر العبداللات - смотреть видео онлайн от «Lavish Occasions» в хорошем качестве, опубликованное 16 июля 2024 года в 2:37:27. |url=https://rutube.ru/video/84acfaa54e5cbdb9bff156f915a55908/ |access-date=2024-12-26 |website=rutube.ru |language=ru}}</ref> | |||
== See also == | |||
* ] | |||
== References == | |||
{{Reflist}} | |||
== Sources == | |||
* {{cite book |last=Shlaim |first=Avi |author-link=Avi Shlaim |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=JtrCoUf7wCsC |title=Lion of Jordan: The Life of King Hussein in War and Peace |date=2008 |publisher=Vintage Books |isbn=978-1-4000-7828-8}} | |||
== External links == | |||
* published by ]. | |||
* published by AP. | |||
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* published by AP. | |||
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* published by AP. | |||
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Latest revision as of 23:04, 26 December 2024
1971 murder in Cairo, EgyptAssassination of Wasfi Tal | |
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Part of Palestinian resistance movements, Jordanian-Palestinian tensions, and Arab Cold War | |
Wasfi Tal (right) shortly before his Assassination in Cairo, Egypt, on November 28, 1971. | |
Location | Sheraton Hotel, Cairo, Egypt |
Coordinates | 30°2′19.97″N 31°13′11.75″E / 30.0388806°N 31.2199306°E / 30.0388806; 31.2199306 |
Date | November 28, 1971; 53 years ago (1971-11-28) Approx. 3:45 pm (local time) (UTC+2) |
Target |
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Attack type |
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Weapons |
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Deaths |
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Injured |
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Perpetrators | Palestinian Black September Organization
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Motive | Revenge for the Black September conflict, during which the Jordanian military, under his leadership, violently suppressed Palestinian militant groups |
On November 28, 1971, Wasfi Tal, the 15th Prime Minister of Jordan, was assassinated by four Palestinian gunmen while he was on his way to an important meeting at the Sheraton Cairo Hotel in Cairo, Egypt. Tal, a prominent military and political figure, was shot at close range by a member of the Palestinian Black September Organization, a group seeking revenge for his role in suppressing Palestinian militants during the 1970 Black September conflict. His death sent shockwaves through Jordan and the broader Middle East, marking the end of a career that had been central to the stability of Jordan during a tumultuous period.
Wasfi Tal was a prominent Jordanian military officer and statesman who held crucial positions within the government and military. He was a symbol of Jordanian strength and leadership, particularly during turbulent times marked by political instability and conflicts involving neighboring countries. While Tal was a figure of stability for many Jordanians, he was also seen as a key player in the monarchy's policies toward Palestinians, which many saw as oppressive. This, combined with his perceived association with the ruling establishment, made him a target for those opposed to Jordanian policies.
The assassination of Tal was part of a larger cycle of violence and political maneuvering within the region. It reflected the deepening rift between the Jordanian monarchy and Palestinian factions. Tal’s killing was a direct response to his role in the Jordanian government’s military crackdown on Palestinian groups, which had been seen as a betrayal by some members of the Palestinian resistance. While his death further complicated Jordan's internal political landscape, it also underscored the volatile relationship between Jordan and Palestinian factions that would continue to shape the country’s politics for years to come.
Background
After the assassination of Hazza' Majali in 1960, an audio recording of Wasfi Tal emerged, in which he predicted his own death. He said:
The battle is against nonsense and forgery, and the battle cannot afford mistakes. There must be casualties in the battle. As for Jordan specifically, one of its victims was Hazza' Majali, and I might be a victim, and someone else might become a victim; this is a battle. If we are right, it is our duty to make this sacrifice. The conspiracy that killed Hazza' Majali did not weaken us, and the one that will kill me will not weaken us. The list will continue; if a master dies, another master will rise. There is inevitability for goodness, truth, and integrity.
Prime ministership
Wasfi Tal’s political career took a decisive turn in the late 1960s. His role as a political leader gave him significant influence over national security and defense policy. In 1967, Jordan became embroiled in the Six-Day War, a conflict between Israel and several Arab states, including Jordan. During the war, Jordan was heavily defeated by the Israel Defense Forces, and Jerusalem was captured by Israel. This loss significantly affected Jordan's political landscape, leading to tensions between the Jordanian government and Palestinian factions, as well as domestic discontent.
After the 1967 war, King Hussein sought to reorganize Jordan's political leadership. In 1970, following the outbreak of civil conflict between the Jordanian government and Palestinian militant groups, Tal played a crucial role in helping to stabilize the country. This period, known as "Black September", saw a violent confrontation between the Jordanian Army and the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO), resulting in the expulsion of the PLO from Jordan.
King Hussein and Wasfi Tal tried to negotiate with the PLO (the Fedayeen). But the war continued for many months and hostility towards the Jordanians continued to overthrow the Hashemite rule. Several Jordanian homes were killed and looted. Eventually, Wasfi Tal allied with Habis Majali, Prince Hassan bin Talal, King Hussein bin Talal and Zia-ul-Haq. Tal issued decisions to end the war and under the instructions of Tal and Habis Majali (the army commander at the time), the armed groups in Jordan were eliminated, where 3,400 people from the PLO were killed, and 600 Syrians, and 120 tanks and APCs and carriers were lost. On the Jordanian side, 537 people were killed.
Following the suppression of the Palestinian uprisings, Wasfi Tal became one of King Hussein’s closest advisors. His leadership in the military and his handling of the political crisis led to his appointment as the Prime Minister of Jordan in 1970. Tal’s tenure as Prime Minister was marked by efforts to stabilize Jordan’s internal situation and rebuild the country's economy and military infrastructure. He was known for his pragmatic approach to governance and his efforts to modernize Jordan.
Tal's policies
As Prime Minister, Wasfi Tal prioritized the strengthening of Jordan’s economy and the enhancement of its military capabilities. He also worked towards improving relations with both Western and Arab nations. His foreign policy was characterized by a delicate balancing act between maintaining close ties with the United States and other Western powers while preserving Jordan’s position within the Arab world. After dismantling armed groups in Jordan and safeguarding the country's prestige and stability, Wasfi Tal's popularity surged, and he was widely regarded by Jordanians as a national hero.
Tal's domestic policies were centered around economic development, infrastructure projects, and maintaining internal security. He recognized the importance of addressing the grievances of both Jordanians and Palestinians within the country, although tensions between these two groups remained high. However, his role in the handling of Palestinian issues, particularly during the 1967 war and the Black September conflict, made him a controversial figure. While he was seen as a protector of Jordan’s sovereignty, many Palestinian groups and their supporters viewed him as a symbol of the monarchy's opposition to Palestinian rights. Because of Tal's actions towards the PLO, hostility arose between Tal and some Arab rulers and leaders.
Opinions of Arab heads of state toward Tal
After the events of Black September, there was a strong animosity from Arab leaders toward Wasfi Tal:
- Yasser Arafat: A deep enmity developed between Yasser Arafat and Wasfi Tal after Tal's involvement in the killing of Abu Ali Iyad in the Ajloun forests. Tal opposed any organization operating in Jordan on behalf of another state, fearing that the activities of the fedayeen might turn against the Hashemite regime instead of focusing on the Israeli occupation. He also mentioned that, after the Battle of Karama, the fedayeen did not carry out any operations for about 18 months, which angered them.
- Gamal Abdel Nasser: Gamal Abdel Nasser’s hatred for Wasfi Tal began when Tal opposed the Yemeni revolution of September 26. At that time, Tal was the only Arab prime minister to stand against the revolution, alongside Nasser and Hafez al-Assad. During the 1967 War, Wasfi Tal clearly and unequivocally insisted on not entering the war under any circumstances, as the political and military conditions of the Arab countries at the time predicted defeat. Furthermore, for Jordan, the catastrophe would be the occupation of the West Bank and Jerusalem. He disagreed with the timing of the war, not the principle of fighting. On June 4, 1967, the day before the war, Tal was agitated and anxious, frequently stating that an imminent disaster was approaching the Arab nation, and the only way to avoid it was to stay out of the war. He responded to inquiries by saying, "If we enter the war, defeat and catastrophe are inevitable." Tal also wanted to establish the Arab Science Center in the Levant, not in Egypt, as he did not trust Egypt, which angered Nasser. At one point, Nasser publicly declared, "I have no plan to liberate Palestine." Wasfi Tal recorded and broadcast this statement on radio stations, further fueling the public's disdain for Nasser. In response, Nasser accused Tal of being a British and American spy, declaring, "I cannot cooperate with Wasfi".
- Anwar Sadat: There was intense hatred between Anwar Sadat and Wasfi Tal, stemming from the Yemen War of 1962. Tal stood with King Hussein of Jordan, King Faisal of Saudi Arabia, and Imam al-Badr in support of the Republicans against President Nasser, resulting in the death of 26,000 Egyptian soldiers. Sadat also supported the fedayeen during Black September, and sought to have Wasfi Tal killed, a sentiment later confirmed by his wife, Jehan Sadat, in an interview.
- Hafez al-Assad: Hafez al-Assad despised King Hussein and his government, accusing them of collaborating with Israel during the 1967 war. Assad also supported the fedayeen during Black September and fought in the October War with Sadat, excluding Jordan.
- Muammar Gaddafi: Relations between Jordan and Libya were strained at the time, with no agreement between Muammar Gaddafi and King Hussein. After Wasfi Tal's assassination, Gaddafi threatened to withdraw Libya from the Arab League if the killers of Tal were not released.
Preparations
A week prior to the incident, Jordanian intelligence (GID) intercepted coded messages indicating an impending assassination of Wasfi Tal. Shortly thereafter, additional information about the plot emerged. The day before his departure, Natheer Rshaid, the then-director of Jordanian intelligence, made a personal effort to warn Tal and urged him not to proceed with the trip. He told him: "The Nasserist regime is planning to assassinate you". However, Tal chose to ignore the warning and insisted on going ahead, replying: "No one dies before their time, and lives are in the hands of God".
On November 28, 1972, Wasfi Tal traveled from Jordan to Egypt to attend the Arab Summit, joined by Foreign Minister Abdullah Salah and Jordanian Ambassador to Egypt Ali al-Hayari. There were concerns about several actions taken by the Egyptian government that suggested opposition to Tal. For instance, upon the arrival of the plane at Cairo International Airport, there was no security detail present to welcome Tal. This oversight puzzled Fayez al-Louzi, Tal's military aide, as it appeared that the Egyptian government had not even sent vehicles to transport him. Consequently, Ambassador Ali al-Hiyari arranged for a car from a local Egyptian car rental service.
The Egyptian authorities permitted the perpetrators to carry their weapons into the airport, citing their affiliation with the Palestine Liberation Organization and asserting the right to carry arms and move freely. Members of the Palestine Liberation Organization entered the airport using forged Syrian, Lebanese, and Sudanese passports under assumed identities, which went unnoticed by airport security.
During the meeting, Tal presented a detailed report to the Arab defense ministers, focusing on strategies for confronting Israel in 1971. Central to his address was a call for the establishment of a "fourth front," which he defined as a popular uprising within Palestine. He emphasized the need for Arab nations to unite in supporting this initiative, urging the ministers to ensure the provision of financial resources, media coverage, and logistical backing for Palestinian forces. He framed this effort as the "revolution of the occupied territories," underlining its importance in the broader struggle for Palestinian self-determination. After the meeting adjourned, Tal departed with his guard, Foreign Minister Abdullah Salah, and Ambassador Ali al-Hayari, heading to the Sheraton Hotel.
Assassination
Shortly after Wasfi Tal and Abdullah Salah stepped out of the car near the Sheraton hotel entrance, gunfire erupted at 3:45 pm Cairo time. Tal was shot by a Palestinian gunman and collapsed to the ground. A total of 14 bullets were fired, three of which hit Tal. The gunman approached Tal and shot him at close range. One of the assassins said to him as he lay dying, “Abu Ali Iyad didn’t die, and Palestinians are not cowards”. Following this, Ezzat Rabah approached Tal and emptied his pistol into his body. Ziad Al-Helou, stationed outside the hotel, fired additional shots. As Tal lay dying, Mundhir Khalifa knelt and lapped with his tongue the blood flowing across the marble floor, as he said at the trial, "I'm the one who drank his blood." During the attack, many of Tal’s guards and the Arab ministers present sought shelter in the chaos.
The first bullet struck Tal’s left hand, while the second pierced his left arm and traveled into his heart, causing fatal internal bleeding. Foreign Minister Abdullah Salah was also injured, sustaining a torn pant leg in the attack. A doctor from the hotel confirmed Tal’s death after approximately 12 minutes. His wife, Saadya Al-Jabri, was on the fourth floor of the hotel when she received the news of her husband’s shooting. Overcome with grief and hysteria, she had to be attended to by the hotel’s medical team. Tal’s body was later transferred to a military hospital in Cairo.
Emergency responders arrived about 40 minutes after the incident, while Egyptian security forces and police showed up only 15 minutes later, despite the Dokki Police Station being located near the scene. This delay angered many Jordanians, who accused the Egyptian authorities of collusion and complicity in the assassination. Egyptian security forces eventually apprehended the perpetrators and launched an investigation. The Black September Organization claimed responsibility for the attack. Initial suspicions fell on Muhammad Youssef al-Najjar, but investigations later ruled out his involvement. Egyptian newspapers prominently reported that the primary suspect and mastermind of the operation was Fakhri Al-Omari, who had managed to evade capture.
At the time of Tal death, an unloaded Smith & Wesson gun was found in his right pocket. His other pockets contained 60 Egyptian pounds (Tal's daily allowance), a hookah, and a tobacco tin. Also found was a paper listing the names of individuals, including "Abu Ali," "Abu Hassan," and a man from the Zahran family, who was found to be managing a farm. Next to each name was an amount of money, with the largest amount listed being 11 dinars. It was later revealed that this was a debt list, showing that Tal owed some farmers who had brought fertilizer for his farm in Mafraq. The titles of "Abu Ali" and "Abu Hassan" referred to poor individuals to whom Tal sent financial aid from his monthly salary.
Immediate aftermath
The assassination of Wasfi Tal shocked both the Jordanian public and the broader Arab world. King Hussein, deeply affected by the loss of his close advisor and friend, declared a national period of mourning. The assassination was also seen as a turning point in the relationship between the Jordanian monarchy and Palestinian factions, as it further deepened the divide between the two groups. The New York Times described the incident that day:
.. this cowardly murder in a Cairo hotel can hardly aid the cause of the Palestinian Arabs, which the assas sins profess to champion. It is another sordid example of the tendency of some Palestinians toward self‐destruc tion and of the persisting capacity for mischief of the extremist elements whose organized military strength in Jordan was so effectively decimated under Mr. Tal's...
In the immediate aftermath of the assassination, the Jordanian government launched an investigation into the attack. The assassin was quickly identified as a member of the Palestinian Black September group, and Jordanian authorities worked closely with Egyptian officials to apprehend those responsible for orchestrating the murder.
Fakhri Al-Omari remained wanted by the Jordanian judicial system until his death in 1991. Meanwhile, the Egyptian authorities released the perpetrators of the assassination without punishment or trial, a move widely seen as evidence of Nasserist regime complicity. More significantly, some claim that Egyptian officials allowed the assassins to bring their weapons into the country upon their arrival by plane, further implicating them in the operation.
The assassination also marked a significant turning point in Jordanian-Palestinian relations. While King Hussein vowed to continue his policy of stability and national unity, the killing of Tal further strained the already fragile relationship between the Jordanian government and Palestinian factions. It also prompted Jordan to adopt a more hardline stance in dealing with Palestinian militant groups.
After the death of Wasfi Tal, the Jordanian Royal Court declared a period of mourning for forty days. School attendance was suspended for three days, and some university professors refrained from giving lectures. Some university students, including those from the University of Jordan, engaged in riots and prevented professors from conducting lectures. Every year, Jordanian university students commemorate his assassination and chant in his honor. The "New Wasfiyun" and "Sons of the Farmers" movements were formed in the universities.
Investigations
Following Tal's assassination, the Jordanian government dispatched the Deputy Director of Intelligence to observe the investigations for eight days; however, he was denied access to any information related to the case.
Burial
Wasfi Tal's body was transferred from the military hospital in Cairo, after an autopsy was performed, to the airport. From there, it was flown by a special military aircraft to Amman on the night of November 28, 1971. King Hussein bin Talal, who mourned him deeply, was there to receive the body and offered condolences to the Jordanian people. During the funeral, many prominent Jordanians, including King Hussein, were seen crying. He was buried in the Royal Cemetery after the Royal Mosque prayer in Amman on November 29.
Trial
A few days after the operation, the accused appeared in the High Court of Justice. Media noted their smiles, elegant suits and colorful ties, and that they raised their hands in a victory salute. The event was also attended by lawyers from Algeria, Egypt, Libya, Syria, and Palestine, who sought to analyze the Jordanian regime's treatment of Palestinians, rather than the criminal culpability of the accused individuals.
Palestinian lawyer Ahmad Shukeiri said, "Let us prosecute Jordan from this court." He added, "These four are Ashmawi, and in Egypt, you call the killer of a killer Ashmawi. These four are the Ashmawi of the Arab nation". This statement changed the course of the investigation, and the High Court of Justice requested that the files of Black September be included. As a result, the case took on a new political direction. In their view, the assassination of Wasfi Tal was an act of vengeance for the massacres that occurred during Black September. Thus, the case of Wasfi Tal shifted from a criminal case to a political one.
Many Arab authorities defended the accused killers, including Egyptian President Anwar Sadat and Syrian President Hafez al-Assad. Gehan Sadat, in a statement to a visiting delegation, said that the young men had only done what Anwar Sadat had wanted to do himself. Libya wanted the release of the four men and threatened to withdraw from the Arab League.
Sentencing session
On February 19, 1972, the judges entered the sentencing session, the accused shouted, "Long live free, Arab Palestine!" At that point, the trial turned into a political rally. The judge sat down and said, "After reviewing the documents, hearing the arguments, and deliberating legally, and in accordance with Articles 145 and 146 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, the court has decided to release the accused".
Legacy
Wasfi Tal remains a figure of importance in Jordan’s modern history. While his legacy is complicated by his role in the Black September conflict and his association with the Jordanian monarchy, he is remembered by many as a capable and dedicated leader who worked tirelessly for the welfare of his country. His assassination, although tragic, further solidified his status as a martyr in the eyes of most Jordanians, particularly those who viewed him as a protector of Jordanian sovereignty and stability.
In the years following his assassination, Jordan continued to grapple with the complex political and social issues surrounding Palestinian rights and the role of Palestinian groups in the region. King Hussein, despite the loss of his trusted advisor, maintained his leadership of the country and worked to stabilize the nation. In the years following Al-Tal’s death, Jordan continued to experience political instability, including the 1973 Arab-Israeli war and the subsequent peace process with Israel. Internationally, Al-Tal’s assassination underscored the difficulties facing the Arab world in achieving unity and stability. It also drew attention to the ongoing struggle between competing factions within the Palestinian movement and the ways in which these factions used violence to further their political objectives.
To honor his contributions, several landmarks bear his name, including a forest and an amphitheater at the University of Jordan’s Faculty of Science, and Jadara University. Numerous streets and squares across Jordan also commemorate him. Al-Tal inspired many Jordanian poets, who composed elegies mourning his loss and celebrating his values. Prominent singers like Abdo Mousa and Omar Al-Abdallat performed songs in his honor.
See also
References
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Sources
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External links
- Jordan Prime Minister Wasfi Al-Tall published by AP.
- Trial of Men Accused of The Assassination of Wasfi Al-Tal published by AP.
- Reaction to Assassination published by AP.
- Wasfi Al-Tal Assassins Released on Bail published by AP.
- Wasfi Al-Tal on the Day of the Incident published by AP.
- Palestinian Assassins Released on Bail published by AP.
- King Hussein of Jordan Attends Funeral of Slain Premier Wasfi Tal | November 29, 1971
- Assassinated Jordanian politicians
- Jordanian people murdered abroad
- November 1971 events
- Terrorism victims
- 1971 in Egypt
- Events that led to courts-martial
- Murder in Egypt
- Mass murder in Cairo
- Assassinations in Egypt
- Political violence in Egypt
- Terrorism in Egypt
- Terrorist incidents in Cairo
- Politics of Jordan
- Politics of Egypt