Jordan is not required to apologize for protecting its borders, nor to wait until danger reaches the doorsteps of its citizens to prove its ability to defend them.
In a region torn by wars and conflicts, moderation is not measured by the extent of threats endured, but by the state's ability to protect its stability without being dragged into chaos. When terrorism reaches Karak, and Jordanians fall as victims to a crime targeting a funeral ceremony inside a church, protecting national security becomes a responsibility that cannot be delayed.
Hence, the (Jordanian Deterrence – Hamoud) operation, carried out by the Royal Jordanian Air Force in southern Syria in coordination with the Syrian government, confirms that Jordan, which has adhered for years to the options of dialogue and coordination, will not allow restraint to become an entry point for continued threats affecting its security and sovereignty.
Jordan has borne significant burdens as a result of the Syrian crisis and has faced continuous challenges represented by the smuggling of drugs and weapons, the activity of terrorist organizations, and infiltration attempts across the northern borders. Despite warnings and security efforts, these threats have remained a direct source of concern for the Kingdom, making border protection a national necessity that does not accept compromise.
The danger of the ISIS organization cannot be overlooked, as it has posed a threat to the security of Jordan and the region for years, benefiting from the security chaos and conflicts witnessed in Syria. Experience has proven that extremist organizations do not stop at geographical borders, and that containing their danger requires security vigilance and serious regional cooperation. Therefore, confronting any terrorist cells or dens that threaten the Kingdom is a necessity to protect the security of citizens and preserve the stability of the state, and confirms that Jordan will not allow regional unrest to be exploited to export terrorism into its territory.
The operation came in the wake of the terrorist attack that targeted the Saint George Greek Orthodox Church in the village of Hamoud in Karak Governorate, which resulted in the martyrdom of nine people and the injury of others. Security services were able to arrest the three perpetrators of the attack, in a step that confirms the efficiency of security institutions and their ability to pursue criminals and protect society.
The significance of the Jordanian response is not limited to the military aspect, but extends to affirming the state's right to deal with the sources of threats targeting its citizens. Deterrence is not a declaration of war, but a means to prevent the recurrence of attacks and increase the cost of targeting Jordan.
It is noteworthy that the operation was carried out in coordination with the Syrian government, reflecting the importance of cooperation between the two countries in confronting terrorism and smuggling networks. The stability of southern Syria is a common interest, and controlling the borders is a responsibility that requires practical measures to ensure that Syrian territory does not turn into a launchpad for threatening Jordan's security.
In light of regional complexities, including the Israeli presence in the Golan and security overlaps in southern Syria, Jordan needs to maintain the independence of its decision-making and protect its national interests, away from the calculations and conflicts of others. The Kingdom does not seek influence outside its borders, but it will not accept that its people pay the price for the chaos surrounding it.
Internally, national unity remains the first line of defense against terrorism. Targeting a church or a mosque is an attack on all of Jordan; the security of a Christian citizen is the security of a Muslim citizen, and the blood of the victims is a national responsibility that transcends any religious or social affiliation. Terrorism will not succeed in achieving its goals as long as Jordanians remain committed to their cohesion and reject strife and hatred.
Jordan has proven, despite the crises surrounding it, its ability to protect its stability thanks to its national institutions, its Arab Army, its security services, and the awareness of its people. This strength does not mean seeking confrontation, but possessing the ability to prevent it when deterrence is necessary.
Jordan does not seek war, but it does not accept that its security be violated. It wants peace for its neighbors, stability for its region, and safety for its people, but it knows that peace requires strength to protect it, and that sovereignty is not maintained by wishes alone.
