Top Jordan Islamist under protection after threats

Jordan's government has ordered police protection for the chief of the powerful Islamic Action Front (IAF), the main opposition party, following death threats, an official said on Monday.

Prime Minister Maaruf Bakhit ordered protection for Hamzah Mansur on Sunday after the Islamist leader's family complaints to police that they received death threats against him, the official said.

Mansur is currently in Egypt, but two police cars are protecting his house in the Sahab area, south of Amman.

The IAF is the political arm of Jordan's Muslim Brotherhood.

"We appreciate what the government is doing, but we demand it reveal the identity of those behind the threats and bring them to justice," the brotherhood said in a statement.

"Such threats and bullying will not prevent us from continuing our demands for reforms."

Inspired by the revolts in Tunisia and Egypt, Jordanians have been demonstrating for nine weeks demanding general reforms.

Tensions between the government and Islamists escalated Friday after the latter refused to take part in a national dialogue commission, claiming the regime is not serious about reform.

On Saturday, thousands of people rallied in support of King Abdullah II, chanting "the people want to bring down political parties" and "the IAF does not represent Jordanian people."

The IAF has been calling for sweeping reforms, including an amended electoral law, leading to a parliamentary government and elected prime minister.