Jordanian court sentences three individuals to death for Karak church terror attack

The Jordanian State Security Court sentenced three individuals to death by hanging on November 15, 2026, for a terror attack in Hammoud, Karak. The convicted individuals are Jordanian nationals who follow Takfiri ideology and are related as two brothers and their brother-in-law. This verdict follows a terror attack that occurred on October 23, 2026, during a funeral ceremony at St. George Greek Orthodox Church.

The court convicted the three perpetrators for multiple offenses related to the incident. These offenses include committing terrorist acts resulting in death in 9 separate instances and using weapons and ammunition in 2 instances. Additionally, the court convicted one perpetrator of providing funds to finance terrorist activities. The attack at the church resulted in 9 deaths and 25 injuries.

Sentencing and legal proceedings

The judicial proceedings for this case were held via video link on November 4, November 8, and November 11, 2026. While the three primary perpetrators received death sentences, the court also issued prison terms for accomplices. Two other individuals were sentenced to 6 years in prison for selling weapons to the attackers. The verdict issued by the State Security Court is subject to appeal before the Jordanian Court of Cassation.

King Abdullah II vowed the strictest penalties for the perpetrators of the attack. The attack targeted a religious community in a region where Christians make up approximately 3% of the Jordanian population. The incident occurred during a funeral ceremony, a time of communal gathering and mourning.

Details of the terror attack

The attack took place in Hammoud, a location within the Karak region. The incident involved the use of weapons and ammunition during the funeral ceremony at St. George Greek Orthodox Church. The attack caused significant casualties, leaving 9 people dead and 25 people injured. The perpetrators were identified as being related to one another, consisting of two brothers and their brother-in-law.

The legal process addressed the specific methods used by the attackers to carry out the violence. The court examined evidence regarding the use of weapons and the financing of the terrorist activities. The convictions covered both the direct acts of violence and the logistical support provided to the attackers, including the sale of weapons and the provision of funds.

Glossary

• Karak — Al-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.
• State Security Court — The State Security Court is a court located in Amman. It is a venue where trials take place and can be composed of a panel of civilian judges.
• St. George Greek Orthodox Church — The St. George Greek Orthodox Church is a religious site. It is a location where funeral ceremonies can be held.