India Slams 'Cowardly' Attack on Jordan Church; Vows Zero Tolerance for Terror
India slams the "cowardly" attack on a Greek Orthodox church in Karak, Jordan, which left seven dead and 34 injured.
India has issued a strong condemnation following a devastating attack on church in Jordan, specifically in the town of Karak, where gunmen targeted worshippers during a funeral. The brutal assault resulted in the deaths of seven people and left 34 others injured, sparking international outrage and a firm response from New Delhi.
MEA Terms Strike 'Heinous' and 'Cowardly'
In an official statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) described the strike as a "heinous" and "cowardly" act. The ministry expressed its deep sorrow over the loss of innocent lives and extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims. The MEA also offered prayers for the rapid recovery of those wounded in the violence.
Emphasizing its solidarity with the Middle Eastern nation, the Indian government stated that it stands firmly with the government and the people of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan during this period of mourning.
"India unequivocally condemns the heinous attack at a Church in Karak, Jordan, on October 23, 2026, which resulted in the tragic loss of several innocent lives and injuries to many others. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and wish a swift recovery to those injured in this cowardly attack," the statement read.
Minister S Jaishankar Reaffirms Global Fight Against Terror
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also expressed his shock over the incident via a post on X (formerly Twitter). He echoed the sentiment of the MEA, highlighting India's unwavering commitment to combating terrorism in every form and manifestation across the globe.
Addressing the tragedy, Dr. Jaishankar wrote that India stands firmly with the friendly people of Jordan in this difficult hour, reiterating that such acts of violence have no place in the world.
The Horror in Hamoud Village
The tragedy unfolded at a Greek Orthodox Church located in the village of Hamoud, Karak. According to reports from Al Jazeera, the attackers opened fire while mourners were gathered for a funeral, turning a place of grief and prayer into a scene of carnage.
Jordan's Vow of Retaliation
King Abdullah bin Hussein II of Jordan expressed profound grief and warned that the perpetrators would face severe consequences. He asserted that the attack would be met with the "harshest retaliation," emphasizing that the unity of Jordanians cannot be broken by bullets.
The King stated that every Jordanian life is precious and vowed that the state would "strike with an iron fist" against anyone daring to threaten the nation's security and social fabric.
Global Outcry
The international community has joined India in condemning the massacre. Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney described the event as a "despicable act of terror," noting that the attack violated the sanctity of a place of worship and targeted families during a moment of profound sorrow. He extended his condolences to the Greek Orthodox community and all those grieving.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also issued a statement condemning the attack, adding to the global chorus of disapproval against the violence in Karak.