Jordan Launches Airstrikes in Syria After Deadly Karak Church Attack Kills 9

The Guardian World · 2026-10-26
Jordan Launches Airstrikes in Syria After Deadly Karak Church Attack Kills 9

Jordan's air force has conducted airstrikes against militant groups in Syria in response to last Friday's attack on a Greek Orthodox church in the southern city of Karak that left nine people dead. The military said the operation targeted 'terrorist groups' linked to the assault, resulting in numerous casualties and the destruction of several vehicles, though it did not name the groups or provide exact locations. The strikes mark a significant escalation by Amman, which has largely avoided direct military action across the border, and signal Jordan's willingness to pursue threats beyond its borders. The Karak attack, one of the deadliest against civilians in recent years, has heightened security concerns in the kingdom, a key Western ally in the fight against extremism. By striking in Syria, Jordan aims to disrupt militant networks and deter future cross-border threats, but the move risks drawing it deeper into the complex Syrian conflict. The international community will be watching closely to see how this action affects regional stability and Jordan's role in the anti-ISIS coalition.