Amman, Oct. 23 (Petra)-- The Jordan Press Association (JPA) on Friday strongly condemned the terrorist crime and cowardly act targeting residents of Hamoud in Karak Governorate during the funeral of a woman following prayers at a local church.

In a statement, the association described the attack as a heinous assault that violates religious, humanitarian and national values.

It stressed that the crime, which runs counter to the teachings of all divine religions and human values, was not an attack on a particular town or group, but rather an assault on all of Jordan, Muslims and Christians alike. It added that the attack was a desperate attempt to undermine the Kingdom's security, stability, national unity and cohesive social fabric, as well as the model of coexistence that has long been a cornerstone of Jordan's identity and history.

"Jordan, which has safeguarded its national unity through the solidarity, awareness and patriotism of its people, will not allow such cowardly terrorist acts to drag it into strife or undermine the unity of its people," the association said.

It added that terrorists, regardless of their motives and objectives, would not succeed in spreading fear among Jordanians, undermining their mutual trust or compromising their national principles. Jordanians, it said, would remain united against anyone seeking to threaten the country's security, unity and stability.

The association expressed full confidence in the security agencies' ability to pursue those responsible for the crime, arrest them and bring them to justice in accordance with the law. It stressed that upholding the rule of law and holding perpetrators accountable are essential to safeguarding community security and protecting citizens.

The JPA also urged citizens, media outlets and social media users to act responsibly and professionally, obtain information from official sources, and refrain from circulating rumors or unverified information that could mislead the public, cause concern and confusion, or jeopardize the investigation.

It called on the public to await official statements clarifying the circumstances and details of the crime and identifying those responsible.

The association extended its heartfelt condolences to the victims' families, praying for God's mercy upon the deceased, patience and solace for their loved ones, and a speedy recovery for the injured.

//Petra// MF