Jordan’s King Abdullah instructed security forces to adopt a firm and decisive approach following a deadly shooting at a church funeral service in the Karak governorate, which left nine people dead and 40 others injured. The attack occurred on October 23, with gunmen opening fire during daylight, targeting the country’s Christian minority in a rare act of violence.

In response, security measures were heightened across Jordan, including at shopping malls, foreign embassies, and other public venues, according to the U.S. Embassy in Amman. King Abdullah described the incident as a “despicable terrorist act” during a National Security Council meeting held on October 24, emphasizing that no leniency would be tolerated when it comes to protecting the lives of Jordanian citizens.

Authorities are actively pursuing the suspects, although no group has immediately claimed responsibility for the attack. Jordan, which maintains close security and intelligence cooperation with the United States and other partners in counterterrorism efforts, faces heightened concerns over stability following the incident.

The shooting at the church funeral is notable given the relative rarity of attacks targeting religious minorities in Jordan, a country known for its generally peaceful coexistence among diverse communities. The government’s prompt and forceful response underscores its commitment to maintaining security and preventing further violence.