Jordan’s King Orders Review of Policies Against Extremism

King Abdullah has ordered Jordan to review its policies for fighting extremist ideas and step up efforts to cut off their sources. The decision came at a security meeting on Saturday, a day after gunmen attacked mourners at a church funeral in Karak. The death toll has risen to nine, and 40 people were injured. The king also called for a firm response to the attack. ^10,11

The attack began on Friday at St George’s Greek Orthodox Church in Hamoud, a village in Karak Governorate. Three masked gunmen opened fire during a funeral, according to accounts reported by Al Jazeera; witnesses described shooting that lasted about five minutes. The attackers have not been identified, and authorities say they are still searching for them. Jordan has declared three days of national mourning. ^8,11,12

The nine deaths have shaken a small Christian community with deep roots in Jordan. The victims were men, mostly from the Halasah family, a well-known Christian family whose family land is in Hamoud. Christians make up about 250,000 of Jordan’s 11 million people. The king’s call to address extremist ideas adds a government response to the hunt for suspects, while officials have warned against rumors that could spread fear or division. Investigators have not said whether the attackers are linked to any known group. ^2,10,11

The review gives government and security officials a specific task: assess how they respond to attacks and consider practical steps to prevent another one. King Abdullah has also called for anyone found to have supported or justified the assault to be brought to trial. The injured are receiving treatment in several hospitals; Jordan’s army chief said their condition was stable. The search for the gunmen continues. ^5,10,12