Jordan’s King Abdullah orders firm response after deadly church attack
News Source
•Sat, 24 Oct 2026 13:02:51 +0000
📰 What Happened
Gunmen opened fire during a funeral at a Greek Orthodox church in Karak, Jordan, on Friday. Nine people were killed and about 40 were hurt. The attack happened in daylight at St George's church in the village of Hamoud, southwest of Amman.
King Abdullah ordered security forces to answer firmly and hunt down those responsible. Jordan declared three days of mourning and raised security at malls and embassies. No group has said it carried out the attack.
🔍 The Backstory
Jordan has mostly avoided the armed violence seen in neighbouring countries. It is home to a small Christian community, roughly two to three percent of the population. Its churches and tourist sites are usually well guarded.
In 2016, attackers killed several people in Karak during a siege at a castle in the same area. Jordan's security services have broken up many armed plots since then.
🎯 Why It Matters
Jordan is a stable US and European ally in a tense region. The attack raises fears about safety for minorities and visitors.
Gunmen opened fire during a funeral at a Greek Orthodox church in Karak, Jordan, on Friday. Nine people were killed and about 40 were hurt. The attack happened in daylight at St George's church in the village of Hamoud, southwest of Amman.
King Abdullah ordered security forces to answer firmly and hunt down those responsible. Jordan declared three days of mourning and raised security at malls and embassies. No group has said it carried out the attack.
Jordan has mostly avoided the armed violence seen in neighbouring countries. It is home to a small Christian community, roughly two to three percent of the population. Its churches and tourist sites are usually well guarded.
In 2016, attackers killed several people in Karak during a siege at a castle in the same area. Jordan's security services have broken up many armed plots since then.
Jordan is a stable US and European ally in a tense region. The attack raises fears about safety for minorities and visitors.