Pope Tawadros II and Coptic Orthodox clergy pray for victims of terrorist attack in Jordan’s Karak

Pope Tawadros II, Pope of Alexandria and Patriarch of the See of St. Mark, extended his sincere condolences to Jordan’s King Abdullah II and the Jordanian people following a terrorist attack targeting a church in Hamoud, Karak Governorate. The Coptic Orthodox Church, through an official statement, expressed its solidarity with the victims and their families, emphasizing the importance of prayer for the repose of the souls of the deceased and the comfort of those left behind.

The statement from the Coptic Orthodox Church highlighted the collective grief of its clergy, who would pray for the victims and for the swift recovery of the injured. Pope Tawadros II concluded the statement with a prayer: “Rejoice and comfort for those whose souls set out for God.” This expression of spiritual solidarity reflects the Church’s commitment to offering solace and support in times of tragedy.

In addition to the Coptic Orthodox Church’s response, Egypt’s Islamic institutions, including Al-Azhar and Dar Al-Iftaa, also condemned the attack. The Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, expressed solidarity with Jordan in its fight against extremism and terrorism. His condemnation underscores the shared moral and religious stance against violence and the protection of innocent lives.

Dr. Nazir Muhammad Ayyad, Egypt’s Grand Mufti and secretary-general of the General Secretariat for Fatwa Authorities Worldwide, emphasized that targeting innocent people and terrorizing peaceful communities are crimes that contradict the fundamental objectives of divine religions. He affirmed that such acts violate both religious law and universal human values, calling for the protection of human life and dignity.

The Public Security Directorate (PSD) Director, Maj. Gen. Obaidullah Al-Maaytah, announced that seven people were killed and 34 others injured in the attack on the Greek Orthodox Church in Humud village. The attack, which occurred in Karak Governorate, remains under investigation, with no group claiming responsibility at the time of the announcement. Al-Maaytah stated that the perpetrators would be arrested soon, reflecting the ongoing efforts to bring those responsible to justice.

The incident highlights the shared concern among religious leaders across denominations for the safety and well-being of communities. It also underscores the importance of unity in condemning violence and upholding the values of peace, justice, and human dignity. The response from both the Coptic Orthodox Church and Islamic institutions demonstrates a collective commitment to these principles.

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