King Abdullah vows to confront 'terrorists' following Karak attack

King Abdullah II told parliament that those behind the recent Karak attack ‘are not of us’ and pledged decisive action against extremists, while warning that Israeli expansionism represents the region’s greatest threat.

Parliamentary address

King Abdullah II spoke to Jordan's parliament following the attack in Karak, saying the perpetrators ‘‘are not of us’’ and promising that the state will confront and pursue those responsible. His remarks were framed as both a condemnation of the violence and a reassurance to Jordanians that the authorities would take action against extremist elements.

Commitment to security

In his address, the king emphasised the need for national unity in the face of terrorist acts and underscored the government's commitment to maintaining security and stability. He said the response to such attacks would be firm, signalling continued efforts by security forces to prevent further incidents.

Regional warning

King Abdullah also used his speech to highlight what he described as the principal danger to the wider region, identifying Israeli expansionism as the greatest threat. He framed this concern in regional terms, linking developments beyond Jordan’s borders to broader challenges facing stability and peace in the Middle East.

Political context

The king’s remarks come amid heightened sensitivities across the region, where incidents of violence and geopolitical tensions have prompted leaders to address both internal security and external pressures. By speaking directly to parliament, King Abdullah sought to reassure lawmakers and the public of the government’s stance on combating extremism while drawing attention to what he sees as an escalating regional risk.