Jordanian security forces arrested three men Monday following a shootout in the Karak governorate, identifying them as the suspects in a shooting at a Greek Orthodox church. The Public Security Directorate reported that the three men were wounded during a dawn operation and are currently in custody. No injuries were reported among the security forces.
The arrests follow an October 23, 2026, attack at St. George Greek Orthodox Church in the village of Hammoud. Gunmen opened fire while mourners were gathered in the church courtyard for a funeral. Surveillance footage verified by ABC News showed at least three gunmen arriving at the entrance, while officials said eyewitnesses reported a fourth person acting as a driver. The village, located south of Amman, is home to a minority Christian population.
The attack resulted in the deaths of nine people and injured at least 34 others. Interior Minister Mazen Al-Faraya stated that the suspects put up "fierce resistance" before being subdued. On Saturday, October 24, Health Minister Ibrahim Bdour reported that 22 of the wounded remained in hospitals in stable condition. While Jordanian Prime Minister Jafar Hassan attributed the incident to "blind extremism," no group has claimed responsibility, and authorities have not named the suspects or specified links to any militant organizations.
King Abdullah II described the safety of Jordanians as a "red line" and ordered an "iron fist" response against those responsible. The U.S. Embassy in Jordan issued a security alert, warning of heightened security presence and advising caution.
The Jordanian government has pledged to seek the "harshest penalties" for the perpetrators. While the three primary suspects are in custody, authorities continue to investigate the possibility of additional accomplices, including the reported driver.