Jordan church attack: India condemns deadly terrorist shooting as New Delhi backs Amman

India condemns Karak attack

India has strongly condemned a deadly terrorist attack on a church in southern Jordan that killed at least seven people and wounded 34 others, declaring its firm solidarity with Amman and reiterating New Delhi's uncompromising stance against global terrorism.

The shooting occurred on Friday, 23 October 2026, during a funeral procession at Saint George’s Greek Orthodox Church in the village of Hamoud, located in Jordan’s Karak governorate. According to Jordanian security officials, masked gunmen detonated an explosive device before opening fire on mourners inside the church grounds.

Global stance on terrorism

Reaffirming India’s active diplomatic engagement and leadership in international anti-terrorism efforts, the Ministry of External Affairs issued a comprehensive statement on Saturday, condemning the violent assault in the strongest terms.

"India unequivocally condemns the heinous attack at a Church in Karak, Jordan on October 23 which resulted in the tragic loss of several innocent lives and injuries to many others," the Ministry of External Affairs stated. The ministry extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and wished a swift recovery to the injured, emphasizing India's unwavering posture: "We also reaffirm our strong commitment to the fight against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations."

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also expressed his deep anguish over the tragedy, stating on social media that he was "deeply shocked at the heinous attack" and extending condolences to the bereaved families.

Security operations in Jordan

Jordanian security forces have launched a massive manhunt across Karak governorate to track down the assailants. Director of Jordan’s Public Security Directorate Obaidullah Al-Maaytah confirmed during a press conference that seven people died in the assault and 27 of the wounded remain hospitalized.

Witnesses and survivors reported that two masked men arrived in a vehicle, armed with a rifle and a handgun, and opened fire into the crowd for several minutes following an initial blast.

Jordan’s Interior Minister Mazen al-Faraya described the assault as an unprecedented act of terrorism, promising that the country would not be dragged into extremism. King Abdullah II vowed that those responsible would face the harshest penalties, declaring that authorities would "strike with an iron fist against anyone who overreaches against this country".

India's diplomatic leadership

The swift response from New Delhi underscores India’s proactive foreign policy and key role as a stabilizing voice in international diplomacy. As India continues to strengthen security and counter-terrorism partnerships across the Middle East, its immediate support for Jordan reflects deep bilateral ties and shared commitments to regional peace and stability.