Jordanian Air Strikes Hit Southern Syria in Retaliation for Church Attack, Seven Dead

Jordan launched air strikes on southern Syria, described as "revenge" for a deadly church attack last week. Syrian authorities reported that at least seven individuals were killed in these strikes. The Jordanian Armed Forces stated that their targets were the hideouts of armed groups responsible for the attack on a church in Karak on Friday, which resulted in the deaths of nine Christians. The military confirmed that these strikes were conducted in coordination with Syria. According to the military's statement, the operation led to the "killing and wounding of many members of these terrorist groups and the destruction of a number of their vehicles". However, Damascus denied any coordination and announced an investigation into the matter. Syria's border authority subsequently closed the Nassib crossing with Jordan. The Syrian government conveyed its solidarity with the families impacted by the Jordanian strikes. Deraa’s health directorate confirmed that among the fatalities were three children, three men, and one woman.