Karak Church Attack Suspects Captured After Three-Hour Firefight

Jordanian authorities captured three suspects in an abandoned house in the village of al-Jadeeda following a three-hour exchange of gunfire.

The men, identified as Jordanian nationals and relatives from the same family, were hiding in a location six minutes from Hamoud, where the attack occurred. Interior Minister Mazin al-Farrayeh stated that the suspects resisted arrest and were subdued with severe injuries. The Public Security Directorate confirmed that one of the men is critically hurt. State news agency Petra reported that officers recovered firearms and ammunition from the hideout after the standoff ended.

Security officials determined that no external armed groups were involved in the planning of the assault. A senior security official told journalists that the suspects include two brothers and that authorities found no ties to other organizations. Al-Farrayeh described the attackers as "extremists" with "no relationship to humanity." He noted that the investigation is ongoing and that everyone involved will be taken to justice. The minister added that Jordan remains "adamant that an attack like this doesn't take place again."

The original attack took place on Friday at St George's Church in Hamoud, a village known for its medieval-era castle. Armed men stormed the compound during a funeral procession, killing at least eight people and wounding 34. Security camera footage shows three individuals shooting outside the church and firing on a group of men attempting to flee. King Abdullah II ordered security forces to respond with an "iron fist" to the attack. At a National Security Council meeting on Saturday, the King declared that the safety of Jordanians is "a red line" and that "the hand of justice will reach every terrorist."

Prime Minister Jafar Hassan declared three days of national mourning beginning Friday. Flags were placed at half-mast over government and public institutions. The eight victims were buried in Karak on Sunday at a funeral attended by a large crowd. Coffins draped in Jordanian flags were carried through the mourners under heavy security. Al-Farrayeh posted on X that officials are examining the circumstances that drive young people toward extremism. He urged citizens to stay calm and reject violence, stating that the tragedy will lead to practical measures to protect civilians.