The Eastern Mediterranean Public Health Network (EMPHNET) proudly acknowledges and commends the recent press release from Jordan, wherein His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan emphasized the paramount importance of combatting tobacco use, particularly among school students. We extend our unwavering support for His Majesty's visionary leadership and steadfast dedication and commitment to the well-being of the Jordanian population and residents in the country.

Tobacco consumption remains a critical public health concern with far-reaching implications for individuals and communities alike. His Majesty's resolute call for a comprehensive strategy to counteract smoking, underscored by the protection of youth and strict enforcement of the Public Health Law, is a resounding testament to his commitment to the health and prosperity of Jordan.

In line with this commendable effort, we wish to emphasize our collaborative endeavors in the ongoing campaign against tobacco. Through strategic collaboration with local and global partners, we have undertaken the development and implementation of context-specific, culturally attuned media messages. These initiatives are intrinsic to the United Against Tobacco Campaign, a multifaceted endeavor aimed at heightening awareness regarding the perils of tobacco, promoting smoking cessation, and advocating for the stringent enforcement of the Public Health Law, which explicitly prohibits smoking in public places.

The United Against Tobacco campaign stands as a testament to the power of collective action and cooperation, enlisting the support of various stakeholders to amplify its reach and efficacy. The campaign website provides details of the initiative and hosts materials available in English and in Arabic. By tailoring our messages to resonate with the unique cultural fabric of Jordan, we strive to optimize the impact of our initiatives. Our shared goal is to educate individuals about the multifaceted risks associated with tobacco consumption and to empower them to make informed choices for their well-being.

We wholeheartedly align ourselves with His Majesty's call for intensified inspection campaigns in public spaces to ensure compliance with smoking bans. Such enforcements do not only protect the health of Jordanians but they also underscore our collective determination to foster a tobacco-free society.

As we laud the commitment of Prime Minister Bisher Khasawneh to intensify inspections within public institutions, we reiterate our dedication to this cause. We take this opportunity to acknowledge Health Minister Feras Hawari's critical insights into the detrimental impact of smoking on youth and children, further solidifying our resolve to combat this issue head-on.

The emergence of new tobacco products underscore the need for vigilant regulation. We wholeheartedly support enhanced regulations to prevent the spread of such products, ensuring the well-being of all age groups.

Education is paramount in our journey towards a tobacco-free Jordan. We are thrilled to endorse the initiatives put forth by Education and Higher Education Minister Azmi Mahafzah, particularly the assignment of law enforcement officers to educational premises. By fostering awareness and knowledge, we are nurturing a generation empowered to make health-conscious decisions.

In summation, we stand resolute in our commitment to thwart tobacco use in Jordan. His Majesty King Abdullah's impassioned call to action resonates in consonance with our collective mission, and we are steadfast in our dedication to realizing a healthier, tobacco-free future for all citizens of Jordan and residents on its territory.