Pakistan condemns deadly Jordan Church attack that killed seven

Pakistan has strongly condemned a deadly gun attack on a funeral procession at a Greek Orthodox church in southern Jordan, expressing solidarity with the Jordanian people as authorities launch a manhunt for the perpetrators.

At least seven people were killed and 34 others injured when gunmen opened fire at the church compound in the village of Hammoud in Karak Governorate on Friday, October 23, according to Jordanian authorities.

In a statement issued on Saturday, Pakistan’s Foreign Office described the incident as a “heinous terrorist attack” and reiterated Islamabad’s firm opposition to terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.

Pakistan also extended its heartfelt condolences to the government and people of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, particularly the families of those killed, while wishing a speedy recovery to the injured.

“Pakistan stands in firm solidarity with the brotherly people of Jordan in their fight against terrorism,” the Foreign Office said, reaffirming the country’s commitment to condemning acts of violence against innocent people.

Gunmen Open Fire During Funeral

According to Jordan’s Public Security Directorate, the attack took place when armed men stepped out of a vehicle and opened fire on mourners gathered for a funeral procession at the church.

A witness told local media that the gunmen fired continuously for around five minutes before fleeing the scene. Between 150 and 200 people were reportedly in and around the church when the shooting occurred.

Footage broadcast by Jordan’s state television channel Al-Mamlaka showed two gunmen carrying pistols, while a third appeared to be armed with a long gun.

Authorities initially reported six deaths before Director of Public Security Major General Abdullah Al-Maaytah confirmed that the toll had risen to seven. Of the 34 injured, 27 were still receiving medical treatment, according to the latest figures cited in the report.

A search operation was launched to locate those responsible for the attack, with security agencies working to establish the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

Jordan’s King Vows Tough Response

Jordan’s King Abdullah II vowed a forceful response, warning that those responsible would face severe consequences.

“The terrorist attack against Karak will be met with the harshest retaliation,” the king said in a post on X.

He added that Jordan would respond firmly to anyone threatening the country’s security. The monarch also visited Karak on Friday evening, according to images broadcast by Al-Mamlaka.

The attack has raised serious concerns over the safety of civilians attending religious gatherings and funerals, as investigators continue their search for the suspected assailants.

Pakistan’s condemnation underscores Islamabad’s support for Jordan at a time of heightened security concerns. The incident has also renewed attention on the threat posed by attacks targeting civilians in places of worship and other public spaces.

As Jordan pursues those responsible, the immediate priority remains caring for the wounded, supporting grieving families and bringing the perpetrators to justice.