World
Gunmen open fire at church in Jordan during funeral
Unidentified gunmen opened fire inside a church in southern Jordan on Friday during a funeral service, killing at least six people and wounding dozens more.
The attack took place at Hammoud Church in Karak governorate in southern Jordan. According to reports, the shooting occurred during a funeral procession. Two unidentified men, described by survivors as masked, carried out the attack, firing continuously for several minutes before authorities responded.
Early casualty figures varied across reports. Most sources cited at least six deaths, though some initial accounts reported seven killed. The number of injured also differed between sources, ranging from 10 to 34 people wounded. According to the Public Security Directorate, some of the wounded sustained critical injuries.
A witness told local media that a vehicle arrived carrying the gunmen, who then opened fire on those gathered. Security forces deployed to the church and launched a pursuit of the suspects. The Public Security Directorate confirmed the attack was carried out by unknown assailants and said the investigation was proceeding rapidly.
State television reported on the incident on Friday evening. The attack drew a response from Jordan's King Abdullah II, who according to one account vowed the "harshest retaliation" in response to the shooting.
The church had been busy with attendees gathered for the funeral service when the gunmen arrived. Details about the identities of the victims or any motive for the attack were not provided in initial reports.
Authorities continued their efforts to locate and apprehend the suspects following the shooting. Security forces remained active at the scene as investigations into the incident began.