Jordan marked the 19th anniversary of the Amman bombings on November 9, 2024. The attacks in 2005 targeted three hotels in Amman, resulting in 60 deaths and hundreds of injuries. The country reaffirms its commitment to peace and counter-terrorism principles as established by the Amman Message.
On November 9, 2024, Jordan solemnly commemorated the 19th anniversary of the Amman bombings, a tragic event in which three hotels in the capital were targeted by suicide bombers. This act of terrorism on November 9, 2005, resulted in the deaths of 60 individuals and left 200 others injured. The Jordanian populace reflects on this day with a commitment to the principles outlined in the Amman Message, initiated by His Majesty King Abdullah, which emphasizes the need for honorable values, peace, and the rejection of terrorism in all forms. The bombings, executed by a group of extremists, began with an explosion at the hotel now known as the Radisson SAS around 9:30 PM, quickly followed by two subsequent attacks at the Grand Hyatt Hotel and the Days Inn. Among the bombers, Safa Mohammad Ali, Rawad Jassem, and Ali Hussein Rishawi were identified. Notably, a fourth individual, Sajida Rishawi, intended to detonate her explosive belt at the Radisson SAS but failed to do so. Subsequently tried and convicted for her involvement, Sajida Rishawi was executed in 2015 for her crimes. In the aftermath of these bombings, six others were also sentenced to death in absentia for their roles in these heinous acts. Among them were both Jordanian and Iraqi nationals, including Mazen Mohammad Shehadeh and Othman Ismail Dalimi, signifying the broader implications of extremist ideologies that challenge regional stability.
The Amman bombings of November 9, 2005, stand as a stark reminder of the threats posed by terrorism in the Middle East. The attacks targeted multiple prominent locations within the capital, resulting in devastation and loss of life. The incident prompted significant reflection within Jordanian society and the government’s intensified efforts to combat extremism. His Majesty King Abdullah’s Amman Message has sought to outline a vision for a just and peaceful society, underscoring the importance of tolerance and harmony in combating the ideologies that foster terrorism.
The 19th anniversary of the Amman bombings serves not only as a day of remembrance for the victims but also as an opportunity for the Kingdom of Jordan to reaffirm its commitment to combating terrorism and promoting peace. The collective memory of this tragic event, along with the teachings of the Amman Message, emphasizes the importance of resilience and unity against extremism. Jordan continues to strive towards a future characterized by tolerance, justice, and coexistence.
Original Source: jordantimes.com