Amman, October 23 (TNA) Gunmen opened fire during a funeral service at a Greek Orthodox church in southern Jordan on Friday, killing at least six people and injuring 28 others, according to Jordanian authorities.
The attack took place at St George’s Greek Orthodox Church in the village of Hammoud, in Karak governorate, about 180 kilometres south of the capital, Amman. The area has a significant Christian population.
The attack took place at St George’s Greek Orthodox Church in the village of Hammoud, in Karak governorate, about 180 kilometres south of the capital, Amman. The area has a significant Christian population.
Jordan’s Public Security Directorate said security forces were pursuing the unidentified attackers. Authorities initially reported seven deaths, but later revised the toll to six, while officials said 28 people were wounded.
Attack during funeral
The shooting occurred while mourners had gathered for a funeral. Witnesses and local reports said armed men opened fire inside or near the church before fleeing the scene. Several of the injured were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. Security forces cordoned off the area and launched a search operation to locate the suspects.
The incident is unusual in Jordan, a predominantly Sunni Muslim country that has generally maintained a reputation for stability and relative religious coexistence. No group had immediately claimed responsibility for the attack.
Investigation under way
Jordanian authorities have not yet released the identities or motive of the attackers. The Interior Ministry described the assailants as extremists, while investigators were examining surveillance footage and evidence collected from the site.
Security has been tightened around churches and other sensitive locations as the investigation continues. Officials said further details would be released after the suspects are identified and the casualty figures are formally verified.