Jordan’s government has formally banned the Muslim Brotherhood, citing national security threats linked to alleged plots involving rockets and drones, Interior Minister Mazen al-Faraya announced on Wednesday.

The decision follows the arrest of 16 individuals last week by Jordanian intelligence, who were allegedly connected to a foiled terror plan targeting critical infrastructure and public safety.

At a press conference, Faraya declared that all Muslim Brotherhood offices across the country would be shut down, their assets confiscated, and any continued activity deemed illegal. He accused the group of operating covertly and engaging in activities that “undermine stability and security.”

Authorities claim to have discovered clandestine weapons manufacturing sites, explosive materials, and stockpiled arms hidden in residential neighborhoods. They also allege that Brotherhood members attempted to destroy sensitive documents just prior to the crackdown.

The Muslim Brotherhood has denied involvement in any violent plots and reiterated its commitment to peaceful political engagement. As of now, the group has not issued a formal response to the government’s sweeping ban.

The impact of the ban on the Brotherhood’s political arm, the Islamic Action Front (IAF)—the largest opposition bloc in Jordan’s parliament—remains uncertain. Security forces raided the IAF’s headquarters shortly after the ban was announced. However, IAF Secretary General Wael Saqqa distanced the party from the broader Brotherhood organization, stating it operates independently.

“We have no ties to any external organizational body,” Saqqa said. “We are committed to the law, the constitution, and maintaining public order.”

The Brotherhood’s legal status in Jordan has long been disputed. In 2020, the country’s highest court ruled the group dissolved for failing to register under new legal requirements. Despite the ruling, the Brotherhood continued operating, and the IAF secured 31 seats in the 138-member parliament in the most recent elections.

Founded in Egypt nearly a century ago, the Muslim Brotherhood advocates for governance rooted in Islamic law. It is banned in several Arab nations, where it is viewed as a destabilizing political and ideological force.