Amman:Jordan and Syria have agreed to form a joint security committee to investigate the deadly Jordanian airstrikes in southern Syria. The decision aims to enhance coordination between the two countries to protect civilians and uphold Syrian sovereignty.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, the agreement was reached following a phone conversation between Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani and his Jordanian counterpart Ayman Safadi. The ministers issued a joint statement outlining the formation of the committee, which will investigate the details and aftermath of the airstrikes, and develop mechanisms for intelligence sharing and ground coordination.

The airstrikes, which targeted ISIS sites based on intelligence about imminent threats against Jordan, resulted in the deaths of seven people and injuries to three, as reported by Syria's Al-Ekhbariya TV. Safadi expressed regret over the civilian casualties and extended condolences to the Syrian people, emphasizing Jordan's respect for Syria's sovereignty and the interconnected security and stability of the two nations.

The ministers underscored the necessity for direct security coordination to address shared threats, protect civilians, and combat cross-border smuggling of weapons and drugs. The Jordanian army had announced that the strikes were linked to a recent attack on mourners at a church in Jordan's southern Karak province, where nine people were killed. Syria's government noted that the operation occurred without prior coordination with Damascus and has communicated its objections to Jordan.