Jordan foils plot threatening its national security

Jordan has arrested 16 people for plotting attacks on targets inside the kingdom involving rockets and drones.

Authorities said at least one rocket was ready to be launched as part of an operation that had been under surveillance by security forces since 2021.

A security source said the suspects were connected to the Muslim Brotherhood, while the head of the cell who trained some of its members was based in Lebanon.

Security forces found a rocket manufacturing facility alongside a drone factory, according to a statement by the General Intelligence Department.

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

The suspects were referred to the state security court for trial.

Government spokesperson Mohammad al Momani told a press briefing the government would be airing full confessions from the suspects.

The rockets found in a secret hideout on the outskirts of the capital were being manufactured with a 3 to 5 km range for use against targets inside the kingdom, Momani added.