Jordan and Syria Establish Joint Security Committee Following Deadly Strikes and ISIS Retaliation

Jordan and Syria have announced the formation of a joint security committee to meticulously review the details and consequences of Jordanian strikes targeting ISIS, as confirmed by the foreign ministers of both nations. The Jordanian army stated on Tuesday that a minimum of 20 ISIS operatives were eliminated in strikes conducted within Syria. These operations were described as a direct 'retaliation' for a devastating church attack in Jordan the previous week, which resulted in the deaths of nine Christians. Syrian authorities reported that the strikes, which occurred late on Monday, claimed the lives of at least seven individuals, including three children, a woman, and an elderly man.

Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi informed Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Al Shibani that Tuesday's strikes were executed based on verified field intelligence, with the objective of 'neutralising' confirmed threats and imminent attacks against Amman's security. Minister Safadi conveyed 'deep regret and sorrow' over the civilian casualties and offered condolences to the Syrian people, emphasizing Jordan's commitment to the 'safety of Syrian civilians as it does its own'. Both ministers underscored the 'deep historical' ties that bind Syria and Jordan.

A joint statement highlighted the 'importance of addressing any issues that could strain bilateral relations through frank and responsible dialogue, stressing that the security and future of the two countries are closely interconnected'. The article notes that Jordan has been supportive of the Syrian government, led by President Ahmad Al Shara since its ascent to power in December 2024 after the overthrow of Bashar Al Assad's former regime. King Abdullah II of Jordan and President Al Shara have committed to enhancing cooperation, particularly concerning border security.

Ministers Al Shibani and Safadi reiterated their close cooperation 'to tackle common challenges, primarily combating terrorism and thwarting cross-border drug and arms smuggling through active institutional channels'. Syria also announced the restoration of passenger and commercial traffic through the Nassib border crossing with Jordan, effective Wednesday, following a brief closure in the aftermath of the Jordanian strikes. The Nassib crossing is identified as Jordan's sole border crossing with Syria that is open for both passenger and commercial transit.