Amman, Jordan
The family of Abu Musab al-Zarqawi took out full-page ads in Jordan’s major newspapers this week denouncing him for the hotel bombings that killed 59 people in Amman. Al-Zarqawi, who was born Ahmed Fadheel Nazzal al-Khalayleh, is the leader of al Qaida in Iraq, which claimed responsibility for the bombings. “A Jordanian doesn’t stab himself with his own spear,” said the statement signed by dozens of members of the al-Khalayleh family. “We sever links with him until doomsday.” Al-Zarqawi had already issued an uncharacteristic apology for blowing up Muslim revelers at a wedding at one of the hotels. “We ask God to have mercy on the Muslims, whom we did not intend to target—even if they were in hotels which are centers of immorality,” he said.
Subscribe to The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.
Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
-
What are the different types of nuclear weapons?The Explainer Speculation mounts that post-war taboo on nuclear weapons could soon be shattered by use of 'battlefield' missiles
-
Floral afternoon teas to enjoy during the Chelsea Flower ShowThe Week Recommends These are the prettiest spots in the city to savour a traditional treat
-
How to plan a trip along the Mississippi RiverThe Week Recommends See this vital waterway from the Great River Road
