Gunmen opened fire inside a Greek Orthodox church in Karak, Jordan, during a funeral on Friday, killing at least seven people and wounding at least 28 others, according to multiple official sources. Authorities reported the attackers fled the scene after several minutes of gunfire, prompting a security response.
Authorities confirm attack details
Jordan’s Public Security Directorate stated the gunmen arrived at the Hamoud Church in the village of Hamoud and opened fire, killing seven and injuring at least 34, most of whom were hospitalized. The directorate’s director, Obaidullah al Maaytah, described the incident as a targeted attack. Separately, Jordan’s state media reported 10 injuries, while the Associated Press cited government spokesperson Mohammad al-Momani as saying six were killed and 28 wounded. The discrepancy in casualty figures remains unaddressed by officials.
The attack occurred as mourners gathered for a funeral, with eyewitnesses estimating between 150 and 200 people inside the church at the time. An attendee, Khaled Burqan, told state-run al-Mamlaka TV that the gunmen, armed with a rifle and pistol, fired continuously for five minutes before fleeing. Security forces were deployed to the area following the incident, which officials described as a heinous act.
Investigation underway
Jordanian authorities have not identified the attackers or provided a motive. No group has claimed responsibility for the shooting, and security services are conducting a full investigation. The Interior Ministry is expected to hold a news briefing to provide further updates. The Karak governorate, where the attack took place, is home to a sizeable Christian minority in the predominantly Muslim country.
Historical context of Karak
The region has seen previous violence. In 2016, gunmen ambushed police in a series of attacks in Karak, including at a Crusader castle, killing 10 people—including seven officers—and wounding dozens. Jordanian security forces killed the attackers after a prolonged standoff. The latest incident follows a pattern of targeted violence in the area, though no direct link has been established between the two events.
Casualty figures and medical response
Hospitals in Karak treated the wounded, with some injuries described as critical. Authorities have not released the identities of the deceased or injured, citing the ongoing investigation. The government has urged the public to cooperate with security efforts and avoid speculation until further details emerge.