Jordan’s King Abdullah promises to confront ‘terrorists’ after Karak attack | Abdullah II News
King Abdullah II Addresses Parliament Following Church Attack, Decries Israeli Expansionism
AMMAN, Jordan (AP) — King Abdullah II of Jordan reaffirmed the kingdom’s resilience amidst recent violence, including a deadly attack on a church in Karak last month, during his opening address to parliament on Monday.
The assault, which occurred two weeks ago, resulted in the deaths of nine people and left dozens injured. “The treacherous hand of terrorism has reached out to test the resilience of our state and the resolve of our people,” the king stated, adding that those responsible for the violence “are not of us. There is no place for them among us, not today and not tomorrow.”
During the session, the king called for a moment of silence in honor of the victims, whose family members attended the proceedings.
Reporting from Amman, Al Jazeera’s Ahmed Jarrar noted that Abdullah emphasized Jordan’s commitment to combating “terrorism and extremism” through national unity and public awareness, underpinned by the support of the army and security services, which he vowed would act decisively.
The king also addressed ongoing tensions in the Middle East, asserting that Israeli expansionism poses the most significant threat to regional security. “Israeli expansionist ambitions are the greatest threat to the future of the region and its security,” he remarked, highlighting the continuing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and ongoing violence in the West Bank and Jerusalem.
In addition, Abdullah pledged to safeguard Jordan’s limited water resources, stating, “We will not allow the thirst of Jordanians to be held hostage by any party.” This statement reflects longstanding concerns regarding Israeli projects that could potentially jeopardize the kingdom’s water security.
Jordan, a key ally of the United States, has maintained a peace treaty with Israel since 1994, and a significant portion of its population is of Palestinian descent.
The king further urged lawmakers to recognize that the nation is the source of authority, noting that healthy debate in parliament is beneficial if it serves the national interest. “Your differences of opinion are a strength as long as Jordan’s interest is the goal,” Abdullah said, urging government officials to focus on improving living conditions for citizens.
He also warned against the misuse of power, stating, “The law knows no name, no position and no influence.”
