Jordan foils plot involving rockets and drones; source says suspects linked to Hamas

Jordanian authorities arrested 16 individuals in connection with an alleged plot involving rockets, explosives, and drone manufacturing, which officials say posed a serious threat to national security.

Jordanian authorities announced on Tuesday the arrest of 16 individuals in connection with a plot involving rockets, explosives, and a facility for manufacturing drones. The General Intelligence Department described the plan as a serious threat to national security, aimed at creating instability and material damage within the kingdom.

According to a security source, the suspects are believed to have links to the Palestinian group Hamas. Jordan, which has a significant Palestinian population, has previously accused individuals associated with the group of influencing anti-government demonstrations since the onset of the conflict between Hamas and Israel in October 2023.

The authorities revealed that the plot had been under surveillance since 2021. At least one rocket was reportedly ready for launch, and a drone manufacturing site was discovered during the investigation, according to the statement released via state media.

"The plot aimed at harming national security, sowing chaos, and causing material destruction inside the kingdom," the intelligence statement said.

Jordan has also reported previous attempts to smuggle weapons across its borders by individuals linked to pro-Iranian groups operating in Syria.

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