It will only strengthen us — King

AMMAN — His Majesty King Abdullah said that the killing of pilot Muath Kasasbeh at the hands of the so-called Islamic State will only strengthen Jordanians as they deal with the tragedy.

In a statement aired on Jordan TV Tuesday, His Majesty said:

“Dear brothers and sisters,

Dear citizens,

Peace, Allah’s mercy and blessings be upon you.

We have received with all sorrow, grief and anger, the news of the martyrdom of the brave pilot Muath Kasasbeh, may Allah bless his soul, at the hand of the terrorist and cowardly Daesh organisation, this criminal, stray gang that has nothing to do with our true religion. 

The brave pilot Muath died in defence of his faith, homeland and nation, and joined other martyrs who fell for the sake of the country, sacrificing their lives for dear Jordan.

Today we stand with the family of the brave Muath and with our people and our armed forces as we deal with this tragedy, which is a tragedy for all Jordanian men and women.

At this difficult time, it is the duty of all citizens to unify their ranks and show the true character of the Jordanian people when they face hardships and plights, which will only strengthen us and reinforce our unity”.