9 Killed in Armed Attack in Jordan; 'Security Forces Killed Four Attackers'

In an attack by individuals identified by Jordanian security forces as 'terrorist thugs', 9 people, including four civilians, lost their lives. Jordanian security forces reported that four attackers were killed and a large amount of explosives, weapons, and suicide belts were found. The armed attack occurred in Karak, an ancient city in western Jordan, which features a Crusader-era castle that is a tourist attraction, where the attackers sought refuge after the fighting began. Among the dead is a Canadian female tourist, whose death has been confirmed by the Canadian government. According to Jordanian police, the four attackers fled towards the Karak castle after engaging with security forces. Reports from news agencies and witnesses in the area indicate that prior to entering the Crusader castle, there were clashes between them and police in the city of Karak, including in a residential neighborhood. The official Jordanian news agency stated that the attackers initially opened fire on a police patrol vehicle in the city of Karak and then escaped in another vehicle, hiding in the castle. The identity of these individuals has not been determined, and it is unclear whether they were members of a specific militia group or acted independently. Security forces have stated that the clashes have ended. At least 29 others have been injured, with some in critical condition. Jordan is one of the few Arab countries participating in the international coalition against the group known as the 'Islamic State'.