Jordan Church Attack Death Toll Climbs to Nine as King Vows Justice
The death toll from a deadly church shooting in Jordan's Karak governorate has risen to nine. King Abdullah II promises harsh retaliation against attackers.
POLICY WIRE — Amman, Jordan — The casualty count from the violent assault on a Greek Orthodox church in southern Jordan has increased to nine, according to Health Minister Ibrahim al-Bdour.
The minister confirmed that two individuals who were wounded during the Friday, October 24, 2026, attack succumbed to their injuries. One of these victims passed away on Saturday after remaining in critical condition.
Authorities report that 25 additional people are currently receiving medical treatment in hospitals. The incident occurred on Friday, October 23, when gunmen infiltrated a funeral procession at the church compound located in the village of Hammoud, within the Karak governorate.
During a National Security Council meeting held on Saturday, King Abdullah II addressed the tragedy after visiting survivors. He declared that the safety and security of the Jordanian people represent a red line, vowing that the hand of justice will reach every terrorist.
This follows the King’s earlier statement on Friday, where he promised the harshest possible retaliation for the shooting. Interior Minister Mazen al-Faraya described the event as a horrific act carried out by a terrorist group, noting that security forces are operating continuously to apprehend the perpetrators.
In response to the tragedy, Prime Minister Jafar Hassan has mandated three days of national mourning beginning October 23. During this period, flags will be flown at half-mast across all public and government buildings.
The Karak region hosts a notable Christian population within the predominantly Muslim kingdom. Christians account for approximately two to three percent of the total population in Jordan.
Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)
