More than a third of humanity is forced to stay at home because of the coronavirus. Each country reacts in its own way to the virus. As for France, the way of life changes at the slightest speech from the government. But what is happening in the countries of the Middle East and more specifically in Jordan? To find out more, we contacted Ramzi Qattash, 48, a Jordanian tourist guide.
Cloistered at home, the French try to keep morale high thanks to various socialization ploys. The containment is thus a new way of life for counter coronavirus. And many countries are turning in on themselves, like Jordan, to fight the deadly invisible enemy.
Ramzi Qattash, 48, a Jordanian tourist guide, explains the situation in his homeland.
What is the current state of Jordan against Covid-19?
Ramzi Qattash : Jordan recorded 212 cases of Covid-19 contamination, a worrying figure according to Jordanian authorities, prompting the state to take more stringent measures to reduce the spread of the virus.
What were the government's decisions?
Ramzi Qattash : Since the number of contamination has reached more than 50 cases, the state has moved on to plan 1 of National Defense, that is to say the prohibition to circulate between the big cities. Two days later, more than 75 cases are listed, the government has therefore installed Plan 2 of National Defense, that is to say the curfew, and the army has deployed in all cities.
What are your media saying?
Ramzi Qattash : The media praised the government for its speed and for deciding very quickly on the measures needed to reduce the spread of the Covid-19 virus. Police arrested over 600 people who did not listen to state directives. Some ended up in detention in the country's battalions. Police also confiscated more than 1,400 cars from citizens who did not comply with the curfew.
Do you understand the measures taken by your country?
Ramzi Qattash : The majority of Jordanians understand and congratulate what is happening in our country. We are proud of our government, and we follow the instructions of the king to the letter.
Are you afraid of this health crisis, for you and your family?
Ramzi Qattash : Of course we are afraid, the Jordanian people are starting to realize the gravity of the situation, especially by looking at what is happening in the world, and in view of the number of deaths every day, especially in Europe.
How is your daily life?
Ramzi Qattash : It becomes more and more difficult to be confined to the house without doing anything but these are important conditions to follow. Fortunately, I have Internet and social networks, I spend a lot of time there.
Are Jordanians paying attention to the virus?
Ramzi Qattash : Many Jordanians are careful, when my fellow citizens are allowed to go shopping, they wear gloves and masks. But unfortunately, there are always unconscious people who wear nothing to protect themselves.
Who are the most affected in Jordan?
Ramzi Qattash : The virus has spread enormously in Irbid (in the north of the country), following a marriage. The bride's father and sister were returning from Spain and were unknowingly carrying the virus. Similarly, a nurse, returning from a trip to Palestine, infected a number of her family members. Very few old people, mostly young people, who will get by, I hope and believe it.
Explain to us the situation in the neighboring countries to Jordan?
Ramzi Qattash : It’s more dramatic in neighboring countries, with the exception of Syria where there are only 5 cases. In Israel, there are 2,666 cases of contamination and 8 deaths. In Saudi Arabia, 1012 cases identified and 3 deaths. In Iraq, the country has 382 cases and 36 deaths.
Are some figures hidden by governments?
Ramzi Qattash : I don't think governments are hiding figures on the coronavirus. I do not see the interest. As the number of contamination increases, containment measures become more stringent, which requires even more effort from the military and the police.
What is the Jordanians' vision of France in this "health war"?
Ramzi Qattash : Jordan has very close economic and political ties with France. Your country is the first western investor in Jordan. We are sorry that the French government did not take action to tackle the virus like China and Jordan earlier. It’s sad and scary to see the number of deaths increasing every day. We trust the great knowledge of Western countries to find the vaccine against the virus.
In your opinion, which country in the world has reacted the best?
Ramzi Qattash : It is unquestionably China.
What would you say to French people who don't understand confinement?
Ramzi Qattash : I tell them that the situation is too serious, and that we cannot afford to endanger our lives and the lives of others. Follow the instructions, otherwise it will be dramatic. Stay at home, please.