Queen Rania of Jordan delivered a poignant address at the South by Southwest (SXSW) London conference on Wednesday, reaffirming Jordan's dedication to humility and diplomacy amid ongoing turmoil in the Middle East. Speaking at the event, she highlighted a pervasive 'sense of heaviness' that has enveloped the region since late 2023, particularly in Gaza, Lebanon, Sudan, and during the recent US and Israeli military actions against Iran.
Queen Rania's Remarks on Regional Conflicts
According to the Jordan News Agency, Queen Rania stated, 'It's the weight of Israel's genocide in Gaza, where tens of thousands of Palestinians have been killed and the entire population is still denied adequate healthcare, nutrition, or shelter.' She praised volunteer-run community kitchens in Gaza and Lebanon as examples of collective work that foster discipline and partnership. Jordan and Saudi Arabia are among countries operating such kitchens and aid projects, providing thousands of families with meals despite Israeli restrictions on humanitarian supplies.
Jordan's Humanitarian Role
Queen Rania emphasized that Jordan hosts one of the highest per capita refugee populations globally, and Jordanians have generously supported aid efforts for Gaza. She noted that climate change, wealth inequality, the impact of artificial intelligence on jobs, and the normalization of racism and bigotry are global challenges requiring cooperation to confront.
She added, 'At the risk of sounding biased — though I am — I believe Jordanians consistently demonstrate the value of community, discipline, and humility.'
About SXSW London 2026
SXSW London 2026 is a platform for the technology and creative industries, launched in 2025 as the European edition of the globally renowned SXSW event, which was established in Austin, Texas, in 1987. The conference brings together thought leaders, innovators, and creators to discuss pressing global issues.
