An attack occurred at a Greek Orthodox church in the Karak governorate of Jordan on 23 October 2026. The violent incident resulted in nine deaths and dozens of injuries among those present at the site. Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the assault on the religious facility. The event has drawn attention to the security of minority worship sites within the country. On October 23, 2026, an attack occurred at a Greek Orthodox church in the Karak governorate of Jordan. The attack on the church resulted in nine deaths and dozens of injuries.
Security Response to Attack
Jordanian security forces arrested three men on 26 October 2026 in connection with the attack on the Greek Orthodox church in the Karak governorate. The arrests follow the incident on 23 October that resulted in nine deaths. On Monday, October 26, 2026, Jordanian security forces arrested three men in connection with the church attack.
Waseem Haddad, who serves as the Senior Program Manager for the Arab region at the International Dialogue Center (KAICIID), stated, "Christians have deep roots in Jordan. This is their country, and they take part in its public and political life, in business, education and across economic life. Christian Churches, schools and charitable institutions have a longstanding role, with many services reaching both Christians and Muslims alike." Waseem Haddad serves as the Senior Program Manager for the Arab region at the International Dialogue Center (KAICIID).
The International Dialogue Center (KAICIID) was launched in 2012 by Saudi Arabia, Austria, and Spain. Addressing the current climate, Waseem Haddad remarked, "I would say right now, it’s under pressure, which means that it’s presence and efforts are more relevant than ever."
Waseem Haddad emphasized the integration of minority populations within the national framework. "Christians belong to the region. This is their homeland, and we should speak about them as citizens and partners in its future, a shared future by all. That belonging must be reflected in how people are treated," he said. He further noted the alignment between state stability and the protection of religious minorities, stating, "The security and dignity of Christians were treated as part of the security and dignity of Jordan." The commitment to these principles remains a central point of discussion for those working within the interreligious landscape of the region as they process the events of October 23, 2026. Ongoing efforts by the International Dialogue Center (KAICIID) continue to focus on the importance of sustaining dialogue and mutual respect across all communities in Jordan.
