Pakistan condemns the deadly shooting at a Greek Orthodox church in Jordan’s Karak Governorate as authorities launch a search for the suspects.
Pakistan has condemned a deadly shooting at a Greek Orthodox church in southern Jordan that killed seven people and injured 34 others, expressing solidarity with the Jordanian people as security agencies search for those responsible.
The attack took place on Friday, Oct. 23, at a church compound in the village of Hammoud in Karak Governorate, where mourners had gathered for a funeral procession, according to Jordanian authorities.
In a statement issued Saturday, Pakistan’s Foreign Office described the incident as a “heinous terrorist attack” and reiterated Islamabad’s opposition to terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.
Pakistan extended its condolences to the government and people of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, particularly the families of those killed, and wished a speedy recovery to the injured.
“Pakistan stands in firm solidarity with the brotherly people of Jordan in their fight against terrorism,” the Foreign Office said.
Gunmen Open Fire on Funeral Mourners
According to Jordan’s Public Security Directorate, armed men stepped out of a vehicle and opened fire on people gathered for the funeral procession at the church.
A witness told local media that the gunmen fired continuously for about five minutes before fleeing the scene. Between 150 and 200 people were reportedly in and around the church when the shooting occurred.
Footage broadcast by Jordan’s state television channel Al-Mamlaka showed two gunmen carrying pistols, while a third appeared to be armed with a long gun.
Authorities initially reported six deaths. Director of Public Security Maj. Gen. Abdullah Al-Maaytah later confirmed that the death toll had risen to seven.
Of the 34 people injured, 27 were still receiving medical treatment, according to the latest figures cited in the report.
Security agencies launched a search operation to locate the suspects and establish the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Authorities had not announced the identities of those responsible in the information provided.
King Abdullah II Vows Strong Response
Jordan’s King Abdullah II vowed a forceful response to the attack, warning that those responsible would face severe consequences.
“The terrorist attack against Karak will be met with the harshest retaliation,” the king said in a post on X.
He added that Jordan would respond firmly to anyone threatening the country’s security. The monarch also visited Karak on Friday evening, according to footage broadcast by Al-Mamlaka.
The shooting has drawn attention to the security risks facing civilians attending religious gatherings and funerals. The investigation remains focused on locating the suspected assailants and determining the circumstances of the attack.
Pakistan’s condemnation highlights Islamabad’s support for Jordan as the country responds to the deadly incident. Its Foreign Office reiterated the importance of standing against violence targeting innocent people.
As the search for the suspects continues, the immediate concerns include the treatment of the injured, support for bereaved families and efforts to bring those responsible to justice.
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