At least seven people were killed and dozens injured when gunmen opened fire at a Greek Orthodox church funeral in Karak, Jordan, on Saturday, officials said. The attack, which took place during a burial service, prompted an immediate emergency response and a nationwide manhunt for the perpetrators.
"Seven shot dead by gunmen at church funeral in Jordan, officials say," reported the BBC.
Details of the Attack
State television footage, cited by the Guardian, showed two individuals wearing masks approach the church while brandishing pistols before opening fire. The assailants entered the courtyard of the church, targeting mourners gathered for the funeral of a local resident. The gunmen fled the scene on foot, and no weapon was recovered at the site.
Casualties and Response
According to multiple outlets, including AP News and Reuters, the death toll stands at seven, while the number of injured ranges from 34 to 40. The injured were transported to hospitals in Karak and Amman, where they received treatment for gunshot wounds and shock. Emergency services set up triage centers at the church and nearby clinics, and the Jordanian Red Crescent dispatched medical teams to assist.
Investigation and Motive
The New York Times described the incident as a "terrorist act motivated by extremist ideology," a characterization echoed by Jordanian authorities in statements reported by Reuters. Police have not yet identified the shooters, but a nationwide security operation has been launched, involving the Interior Ministry, the General Intelligence Directorate, and local police forces. The investigation is focusing on potential links to extremist groups operating in the region.
Jordan's King Abdullah II condemned the attack as "a heinous act against humanity and the Christian community," a sentiment echoed by Vatican News, which highlighted the tragedy's impact on Jordan's religious minorities. Local religious leaders called for calm and solidarity, urging citizens to reject sectarian hatred.
The manhunt continues, with checkpoints established on major highways leading out of Karak. Security forces have increased patrols around churches and public gatherings nationwide, and the Ministry of Interior has urged the public to report any suspicious activity.
While the identity and exact motives of the gunmen remain unclear, the incident marks one of the deadliest attacks on Jordan's Christian minority in recent years. Authorities have pledged to bring the perpetrators to justice and to reinforce security measures to prevent further violence.
