Jordan threatens action on terror supporters
Jordan’s King Abdullah II today threatened to crack down on supporters of terrorists following this week’s triple hotel bombings that killed at least 57 people.
Abdullah also called for international cooperation to combat terrorism, which he called “a sick phenomenon that crosses borders.”
“The Black Wednesday crime marks a major turning point in our dealings with those who support or back terrorism,” Abdullah told the state-run Petra news agency.
“Whoever justifies terror acts or instigates them is a partner in the crime and we will never accept anyone who defends any ideology that supports violence and harming innocent people.”
Al-Qaida in Iraq, led by Jordanian-born militant Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, claimed responsibility for Wednesday’s attacks on the Grand Hyatt, Radisson SAS and Days Inn hotels.
Deputy Prime Minister Marwan Muasher confirmed that three “non-Jordanian” bombers belonging to al-Zarqawi’s group carried out the attacks.
“The crime that happened won’t push us to become a police state, but there will be a balance between freedom and security in a way that will comfort our people and guests,” Abdullah told Petra.
“Fighting terrorism must consider those who justify evil terrorist crimes or instigate them in any way.”
“We won’t treat leniently those holding the twisted ideology of takfiri (those who consider others infidels) …. And let them to have a place among us,” he added.
After the US-led war on Iraq, more than 400,000 Iraqis took refuge in Jordan. They represent a mixture, including Saddam Hussein’s two daughters, wealthy members of his ousted Arab Baath Socialist Party and impoverished Iraqis who work as street vendors and prostitutes.
But Abdullah tried to soothe any Iraqi fears that they would not be welcome in Jordan.
“I would like to tell Iraqis living in Jordan that you are among your people and we won’t allow al-Zarqawi or other terrorists to divide us. Jordan will keep being a safe haven for you.”
