In September 1970, the tensions between the Jordanian government and the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), which had established a strong presence in Jordan, escalated dramatically. These tensions were largely due to the increasing influence and militarization of the PLO, which began to challenge Jordanian sovereignty and authority. King Hussein of Jordan, anxious about the potential for a Palestinian state that might threaten the monarchy, perceived the armed groups as a direct threat to his rule. The situation boiled over when a series of violent incidents occurred, leading Hussein to declare war on the PLO.

The conflict, termed Black September, saw intense fighting from Jordanian armed forces against Palestinian militants within the urban centers of Jordan, especially in cities like Amman. The military operations were characterized by extensive urban warfare, which resulted in significant casualties among both combatants and civilians. The Jordanian military mobilized to restore order, while the Palestinians fought fiercely to maintain their foothold in the country.

The conflict ultimately led to a decisive victory for the Jordanian forces, scattering many Palestinian fighters into neighboring countries. The aftermath saw the PLO regrouping in Lebanon, leading to further regional conflicts. International reactions varied, with some Arab nations supporting the PLO, while others backed Jordan. This civil strife within Jordan significantly affected its internal politics and relations with surrounding nations for years to come.