Survivor says gunman aimed pistol at him during Jordan church shooting
A worshipper recounted that a gunman pointed a pistol at him during a mass shooting at the Greek Orthodox Hamoud church in Karak, killing eight and wounding dozens.
During a prayer service at the Greek Orthodox Hamoud church in Karak governorate, worshippers heard what seemed like an exploding air-conditioner before a volley of gunfire erupted. Lawyer Nasser al-Burqan, present at the ceremony, reported that two assailants entered, one masked and the other openly carrying a handgun, which was pointed directly at him as the shooting continued. The assault resulted in eight fatalities and injured roughly 40 people, among them al-Burqan’s son, who sustained a leg wound.
Jordan’s King Abdullah toured the scene hours later, vowing that the perpetrators would be dealt with “with an iron fist.” Authorities have launched a manhunt, have not linked the gunmen to any known group, and have stepped up security at malls, embassies and other public sites across the country.
Why it matters
The attack underscores the rarity of sectarian violence in Jordan and raises regional security concerns.
How this story developed
- Oct 23 Six dead and dozens wounded in gun attack on Karak funeral church
- Oct 23 The reported death toll has risen to seven and the number of injured has been updated to 34.
- Oct 24 Security forces have stepped up patrols at malls, diplomatic missions and other public sites across Jordan.
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