Israeli Embassy in Amman: two Jordanians killed and one Israeli wounded

Amman's security forces seal off neighborhood. Little news from Jordanian police. The Israeli foreign ministry censors information. Pope Francis makes appeal.

Amman (AsiaNews / Agencies) - Two Jordanians were killed and an Israeli wounded in an apparent attack on the Israeli embassy in the Jordanian capital. The two locals worked for a furniture company and had entered the embassy before the shootout. The Jordanian security forces have sealed off the area (see photo).

For the time being the only reports of the accident are those of Jordanian police and security forces. The Israeli authorities have not commented and almost imposed a press silence. Israeli foreign ministry spokesman Emmanuel Nahshon said the incident was under "completely censorsed" and forbade Israeli and accredited media reporters in Israel to report the incident.

Meanwhile, Israeli personnel at the Amman embassy were evacuated. The reasons for the attack are not known for now.

On Friday last, July 21, following calls from left-wing groups and Muslim integralists, thousands of Jordanians demonstrated in front of the Israeli embassy against the installation of metal detectors and cameras for entry onto Temple Mount in Old Jerusalem. The measure, after the killing of two Israeli soldiers, is seen by Muslims as interference in the management of the sacred place, the most important for Islam after Mecca and Medina.

Jordan is officially "the guardian" of this holy place to Islam.

Last Friday, July 21, thousands of Muslims in Israel refused to pass under metal detectors and prayed in the streets. In clashes with police in several areas of Jerusalem and occupied territories, three young Palestinians were killed.

Yesterday, Pope Francis appealed for all parties to implement "moderation and dialogue" and for  "the Lord to inspire in all involved intentions of reconciliation and peace".