State Security Court to deliver verdict Sunday in Karak church attack case

The State Security Court is scheduled to deliver a verdict on Sunday, November 15, 2026, regarding a terrorist attack at a church in Karak. The legal proceedings follow an incident that took place on Friday, October 23, 2026, at the St. George Greek Orthodox Church located in the town of Hammoud within the Karak Governorate. The attack occurred during a funeral ceremony and resulted in nine deaths and several injuries.

The Trial and Charges

Five defendants are currently facing trial in connection with the incident. This group includes three primary perpetrators and two individuals accused of selling weapons. The Public Prosecution issued the official indictment for the case on November 3, 2026. According to the indictment, the defendants face seven main charges, which include premeditated murder for terrorist purposes and the promotion of extremist ideology.

The court has held three sessions to review the evidence and testimony. The first session took place on November 4, 2026, to read the indictment and appoint defense lawyers. The second session was held on November 8, 2026, which involved both in-person and remote testimony. The third session was held on November 11, 2026, during which the Public Prosecutor delivered a closing argument. Amer Halsa, a lawyer for the families of the victims, confirmed that the State Security Court concluded its third session and will deliver the verdict on Sunday.

Background of the Incident

The investigation into the attack included significant security operations in the Karak region. On October 26, 2026, the Public Security Directorate conducted a raid on an abandoned house in Karak. During this raid, security forces apprehended the three primary perpetrators following a shootout. The attack specifically targeted civilians during a funeral ceremony inside a place of worship.

The legal process has focused on the specific roles played by each individual involved in the incident. While three individuals were identified as the primary perpetrators of the attack, the two additional defendants face charges related to the sale of weapons used in the violence. The court's decision on Sunday will conclude the judicial proceedings regarding these specific charges and the events that occurred at the St. George Greek Orthodox Church.

Glossary

• Karak — Karak is a city in Jordan and the capital of the Karak Governorate. It is situated on a hilltop and is known for the medieval Kerak Castle.
• Public Security Directorate — The Public Security Directorate is part of the Ministry of Interior. It includes the national police, the Gendarmerie, and the Civil Defense Directorate.
• State Security Court — The State Security Court is a court located in Amman. It is a venue where trials take place, including those involving terrorism charges.