Jordan's air force has conducted retaliatory airstrikes against armed groups in Syria, following a deadly attack on a Greek Orthodox church in the southern Jordanian city of Karak. The operation, announced by the Jordanian air force, was launched in response to last Friday's assault that killed eight people, with the air force later reporting nine fatalities.

The military statement indicated that the strikes targeted "terrorist groups" tied to the church attack. The air force reported that the operation "resulted in the killing and wounding of many members of these terrorist groups and the destruction of a number of their vehicles." However, the statement did not specify the identities of the targeted groups or the precise locations of the strikes within Syria.

Simultaneously, Jordanian authorities have made arrests in connection with the fatal church attack. Three relatives have been taken into custody over the incident in Karak. Details regarding their identities or their alleged roles in the attack were not immediately disclosed by the authorities.

The attack on the Greek Orthodox church in Karak marked a significant security incident in Jordan. The city, located in southern Jordan, is known for its historic sites, including a prominent Crusader castle. The swift response from Jordanian forces, encompassing both domestic arrests and cross-border military action, underscores the country's commitment to addressing threats to its security.

The dual approach of apprehending suspects domestically and engaging in military operations abroad highlights the multifaceted nature of the response to the Karak church attack. The Jordanian government has consistently maintained a firm stance against groups perceived as a threat to national stability and regional security, often citing the need to protect its borders and citizens from extremist elements.