Shots fired outside Israeli embassy in Amman, Jordan - gunman killed by Jordanian security
Police claim shooter with ‘previous criminal record’ had automatic weapon, incendiary devices
Security forces in Jordan closed the road leading to the Israeli embassy in Rabieh, in the capital city of Amman, Jordan early this morning after a shooting incident in the vicinity.
Saudi news site al-Arabiya reported that a “heavy security cordon” was placed around the embassy following sounds of shooting and that roads to the compound were blocked off.
Al-Arabiya cited local sources who reported ambulances dispatched to the scene.
Shortly after the report in al-Arabiya, the Petra news agency in Amman reported that three security guards had been injured in the shooting. They said police instructed local residents to remain in their houses until the incident was over.
The Jordanian news site reported that the shooter “is wanted and has a previous criminal record” including drug cases and property damage.
Citing a security official Petra said the shooter fired shots with an automatic weapon at a security patrol before fleeing.
After a chase, security forces found the shooter near the Israeli embassy and he was killed in the resultant firefight. Officials said they found an automatic weapon and “incendiary materials” in his possession.
The injured security officers were transferred for treatment of moderate injuries. Petra news later reported that all three are in stable condition.
Jordan’s Minister of Government Communication and Government Spokesman Dr. Mohammed Al-Momani called the attack a terrorist incident.
The area near the Israeli embassy has been the scene of previous unrest, due to the broad popular support for Hamas and the Palestinian cause in the Kingdom of Jordan.
In March, Jordanian police clashed with protesters near the embassy after false reports of sexual misconduct by Israeli guards towards female Palestinian prisoners were widely shared in Arab social media.
Since October 7, Israeli Ambassador to Jordan Amir Weissbrod has been on security leave from the offices, due to concerns for his safety.
During the March protests, some demonstrators shouted, "Oh Hamas...All of Jordan's people are behind you.”
There were no reports of any injuries inside the Israeli embassy compound.
The All Israel News Staff is a team of journalists in Israel.
