Habis al-Majali

Habis Majali (; ‎ 1914 – April 22, 2001) was a Jordanian field marshal, who served as Chief of Staff of the Jordanian Armed Forces from 1958 to 1975, as minister of defense from 1967 to 1968. He became a politician in his later life and served as a member of the Jordanian Senate for 30 years from 1967 to 1997.

He commanded Jordan's forces against Israel during the 1948 Arab–Israeli War (also known as the First Arab-Israeli War), the Six Day War in 1967 and the Yom Kippur War in 1973; and against the Palestine Liberation Organization and Syria during Black September in 1970. During the last 20 years of his life, he retired from the army and served as senator in the Jordanian Parliament's upper chamber. King Hussein's biographer, James Lunt, dubbed Majali the grand seigneur of Karak, and the beau sabreur of the army. Majali is one of few Jordanians, along with the Kings of Jordan, to hold the Field Marshal rank–the highest rank in the Jordanian army.

Early life and background Habis Majali was born in 1914 in Ma'an, Jordan, into the influential Majali tribe, known for its political and military leadership in southern Jordan. The Majalis were a prominent Bedouin family in the Karak region, historically associated with Jordanian tribal leadership. From a young age, Habis displayed qualities of leadership that would later become the hallmark of his military career.

Military career Habis Majali seen with Prime Minister Wasfi Tal during a military parade.

Early career and the Arab Legion Habis Majali’s military career began with his service in the Arab Legion, where he quickly impressed Glubb Pasha, the British officer who led the Legion. Majali was known for blending modern military techniques with Bedouin traditions of bravery. King Hussein's biographer, James Lunt, dubbed Majali the grand seigneur of Karak and beau sabreur of the army.

Commanding Jordan’s Forces Majali’s command extended into the 1950s, a period marked by political upheaval in Jordan. He served as Commander of the Royal Guard in 1951 when King Abdullah I was assassinated at Al-Aqsa Mosque. Abdullah insisted on speaking to the crowds on his way to the mosque, but Majali thought it was too dangerous and ordered soldiers to surround the King–angering him. The King moved ahead of his guards, and was shot dead by a Palestinian. This event highlights his protective instincts toward the monarchy.

Personal life and legacy Majali was deeply rooted in Jordan’s Bedouin culture, which informed his leadership style and earned him respect both as a military leader and as a defender of the Hashemite monarchy. His family played significant roles in Jordanian politics, including his cousin Hazza' Majali, who served as prime minister before his assassination in 1960. Known as the "Grand Seigneur of Karak," Majali's contributions to Jordanian military and political life are remembered with reverence. His military legacy is highlighted by his tactical victories and his defense of Jordan's territorial integrity.

Honour

Honors and recognitions Majali was one of the few Jordanians to achieve the rank of field marshal, the highest military rank in Jordan. He was honored with several awards throughout his career, including the titles of: Honorary Commander of the Order of the Defender of the Realm (1965) His enduring legacy is celebrated both within Jordan and internationally as a symbol of national strength and leadership.