Jordan Captures Three Relatives After Three-Hour Firefight

Jordanian security forces detained three men after a three-hour exchange of gunfire in the village of al-Jadeeda. The suspects are relatives of one another, including two brothers, and were identified early in the investigation into Friday's attack on a Greek Orthodox church. Interior Minister Mazin al-Farrayeh stated that the men refused to surrender and attacked officers with firearms before being subdued. One suspect suffered critical injuries during the raid, and officials recovered weapons and ammunition from the hideout.

The violence began on Friday when armed men stormed St. George's Church in Hamoud during a funeral procession. The attack killed at least eight people and wounded 34 others. Security camera footage showed three individuals shooting outside the church and firing on a group of men attempting to flee. Authorities described the perpetrators as extremist terrorists. Karak governorate has a notable Christian community within a Muslim-majority kingdom where Christians constitute between 2 percent and 3 percent of the population. The village of al-Jadeeda is located just six minutes by car from Hamoud, where the church is situated.

King Abdullah II ordered security forces to respond with an iron fist to what he called an unprecedented attack on the country's Christian minority. Speaking 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 lowered to half-mast over government and public institutions during this period.

The eight victims were buried in Karak on Sunday. A large crowd gathered for the funeral, which was held under heavy security. Coffins draped in Jordanian flags were carried through the mourners. Among the victims was Mohammad al-Qasous, a Christian. Al-Farrayeh told journalists that the investigation continues and that everyone involved will be taken to justice. He added that Jordan is adamant that an attack like this does not happen again.

The minister noted that the suspects put up fierce resistance but were arrested with severe injuries. State news agency Petra reported that the search widened to several locations until the men were surrounded. Al-Farrayeh said officials are examining the circumstances that push young people toward extremism. He urged citizens to stay calm and reject violence. The ministry also stated that the tragedy would lead to practical measures to protect civilians.

No organization has claimed responsibility for the attack. Authorities have not linked the suspects to any armed group. The men were taken into custody on Monday. The Public Security Directorate confirmed the arrests after the standoff in the abandoned house.