Jordanian Army Foils Infiltration Attempt by Armed Group from Syria, Inflicts Casualties

The Jordanian Army announced on Saturday that it had thwarted an attempt by an armed group of approximately 14 individuals, coming from Syrian territory, to infiltrate and cross the border, inflicting significant casualties among them.

A senior military source in the General Command of the Jordanian Armed Forces stated in a press release that a border guard unit under the Northern Military Zone thwarted, on Friday evening, an infiltration and border-crossing attempt by an armed group of about 14 people originating from Syrian territory.

The source explained that “the armed group attempted to infiltrate under heavy cover of fire and engage our forces in direct combat, prompting Jordanian border guards to respond immediately and resolutely in accordance with established rules of engagement.” This resulted in numerous casualties among the armed group, while the remaining members fled toward deeper Syrian territory.

The source reaffirmed that the Jordanian Armed Forces would respond with full force and firmness to any attempt at infiltration or smuggling, and would strike with an iron fist anyone who dared to threaten the security of the nation and its citizens or violate the sanctity of its borders.

Last Monday, the Jordanian Armed Forces had reaffirmed that they “stand ready to confront anyone who dares to threaten the security of citizens,” emphasizing their resolve to “root out the foundations of extremism and terrorism” and to continue their sacred duty of protecting the homeland, its citizens, and its sanctities.

On Friday, gunmen opened fire on civilians during a funeral at a church in Hamoud village, in Karak Governorate, killing nine people and injuring others, according to official Jordanian statements.

Jordanian authorities announced the arrest of three gunmen who carried out the attack, following a firefight that left all three injured, with no casualties among the security forces.