In a united front against terrorism, officials from 11 Arab nations have condemned a devastating attack that targeted mourners at a funeral in a church in southern Jordan. The incident, which occurred on a solemn occasion, has provoked widespread outrage, leading to expressions of solidarity with Jordan and a strong rejection of any attempts to incite division among its people.
Collective Condemnation of the Attack
The tragic incident resulted in seven fatalities and left 27 others injured, as reported by Jordan’s Public Security Directorate. This brutal act has drawn sharp condemnation from a range of nations, including Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Palestine, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain, as well as organizations such as the Arab League and the Arab Interior Ministers Council. These reactions highlight the shared commitment among Arab nations to stand against violence and protect sacred spaces.
Nabil Fahmy, the Arab League Secretary-General, described the assault on places of worship as “an unacceptable terrorist act,” emphasizing the need for national unity to counter the forces that seek to spread chaos. His call for collective action reflects a desire to maintain stability in the region and reinforce security measures across the board.
Reactions from Regional Leaders
In Lebanon, President Joseph Aoun denounced the attack for its violation of the sanctity of places of worship and the dignity of mourners. He pointed out that terrorism disregards national and religious boundaries, aiming to incite discord among communities. Meanwhile, the Syrian Foreign Ministry reiterated its support for Jordan’s quest for security and unity, underscoring the collaborative spirit among neighboring nations.
Iraq’s Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein expressed Baghdad’s solidarity with Jordan during a conversation with Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi. The Palestinian presidency labeled the targeting of innocent civilians as a crime that cannot be justified under any circumstances. Prominent figures in Palestine, including Vice President Hussein al-Sheikh and bodies like Hamas, joined in denouncing the attack and arranged public displays of solidarity, including ringing church bells and a gathering in Bethlehem’s Manger Square.
Support from Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Other States
Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has also voiced support for Jordan in its fight against terrorism. Accompanying this, the Foreign Ministry and Al-Azhar Grand Imam Ahmed al-Tayeb issued strong statements condemning the attack. Saudi Arabia and the UAE positioned themselves firmly against any forms of terrorism threatening Jordan’s peace, while Oman, Kuwait, and Qatar expressed their backing for Jordan’s security measures. Bahrain has signaled its commitment to assisting in the quest for justice for the victims by pursuing the assailants.
According to local reports, unidentified gunmen opened fire on St. George Greek Orthodox Church in Hamoud, Karak, as mourners gathered to pay their respects. Eyewitness accounts indicate that the attackers emerged from a vehicle, signaling a premeditated assault. Interior Minister Mazin Al Farrayeh stated that the security forces are actively pursuing the attackers but stressed that it remains premature to discuss their identities or affiliations.
King Abdullah II has vowed to impose the strictest penalties on those responsible for this heinous act, affirming Jordan’s commitment to justice and security. His resolve highlights the strength and unity that can emerge in the face of adversity, reassuring citizens of the kingdom’s steadfastness against threats to peace and social cohesion.