Jordanian airstrikes in Syria kill 20 IS terrorists, Damascus condemns civilian casualties

Jordanian air raids targeted areas in southern Syria on October 27, 2026, following the arrest of three suspects linked to an attack on a Greek Orthodox Church in Karak, Jordan. Nine Christians were killed in the church attack, which Jordan attributed to ISIS. The suspects were arrested on Friday, prompting the Jordanian Air Force to conduct air strikes in Daraa province.

Jordanian officials reported that the air raids killed more than 20 Islamic State terrorists and destroyed an arms cache. The operation was described as a response to “exhausted patience” with terrorist movements, aimed at “directly neutralizing the threat.” Government spokesman Mohammed al-Momani acknowledged civilian casualties and emphasized that Jordan regretted them, stating that civilian areas were avoided and strict regulations were followed to minimize harm.

Syrian authorities condemned the air raids, claiming at least seven civilians, including three children and one woman, were killed. Damascus expressed “violent convictions” over the civilian toll and called the strikes an “unacceptable violation” of Syrian airspace. The Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs rejected coordination with Jordan, stating the attacks were carried out without prior consultation.

Jordan initially claimed coordination with Damascus, but Syria denied this and ordered the closure of the Nassib border crossing with Jordan. The border region has long been a hub for drug and weapons smuggling, prompting Jordan to conduct repeated operations against smugglers and terrorists. Relations between Jordan and Syria had improved after the 2024 ousting of the Assad regime, with both sides working to enhance border security.

The incident has reignited tensions between the two nations, with Syria vowing to investigate the attacks and provide humanitarian support to victims. Jordan reaffirmed its commitment to combating terrorism and maintaining cooperation with Damascus, despite the fallout from the strikes.

Source: Read the original report (translated from German)