Jordan's King Abdullah Vows to Combat Terrorism with National Unity After Karak Attack

Jordan's King Abdullah II has pledged to confront "terrorism and extremism" with unwavering resolve, vowing that the kingdom will not be deterred by a deadly attack on a church in the southern city of Karak last month. Addressing lawmakers at the opening of a new parliamentary session in Amman, King Abdullah declared that the "treacherous hand of terrorism" had attempted to test the nation's resilience and the people's resolve. He emphatically stated that the attackers were not part of their society, asserting, "There is no place for them among us, not today and not tomorrow." The attack, which occurred approximately two weeks prior, resulted in the deaths of nine individuals and left dozens injured. King Abdullah requested a moment of silence from the parliamentarians in remembrance of the victims, some of whose relatives were present at the session.

According to Al Jazeera's Ahmed Jarrar, reporting from Amman, King Abdullah emphasized that Jordan's primary defense against terrorism and extremism would be rooted in national unity and public awareness, bolstered by the strength of the army and security services, which would act with an "iron fist." The King also turned his attention to regional issues, identifying Israeli expansionism as the most significant threat to the Middle East's future and security. He highlighted the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and continuous assaults in the West Bank and Jerusalem. Furthermore, King Abdullah committed to safeguarding Jordan's limited water resources, stating, "We will not allow the thirst of Jordanians to be held hostage by any party," a statement reflecting concerns over Israeli projects impacting the kingdom's water security.

The monarch also conveyed a message to the lawmakers, stressing that national authority originates from the people and that parliamentary debate is beneficial when it serves the national interest. "Your differences of opinion are a strength so long as Jordan’s interest is the goal," King Abdullah stated, while also urging the government to focus on improving living conditions and warning officials against abusing their power, reminding them that "The law knows no name, no position and no influence."