Jordan’s king Abdullah II reshuffles top brass

AMMAN, Jordan – King Abdullah II of Jordan has reshuffled his top brass amid fears of instability in the Arab country.

The most prominent change reported this week by state news agency Petra is the replacement of the general intelligence chief.

In a letter to the new director, Ahmed Hossni, the king cited “many unprecedented challenges” imposed by regional and international dynamics, according to Petra.

Several officials at the influential Royal Court were also sacked.

Jordan is an oasis of stability in a turbulent Middle East and it has housed millions of refugees fleeing wars in neighbouring Syria and Iraq.

However, local discontent has grown over the increasing cost of living and government mismanagement. Protesters last year forced the king to fire the government. Arab media reports expect renewed demonstrations.