Jordan’s King Abdullah expresses grief over those killed in Dead Sea floods

Speaking on the tragic flood that left at least 20 people dead near the Dead Sea, King Abdullah II of Jordan said “my grief is great and deep, and nothing equates to it except the anger I feel towards those who failed to take measures that could have prevented this painful incident.”

Jordan’s King said in a speech on Friday: “My condolences to the people of Jordan at the loss of our family members. The pain of every father, mother, and family is my pain as well.”

King Abdullah also expressed his condolences to the leaders of Iraq regarding the death of two Iraqis who were killed in the flood near the Dead Sea.

The King will chair a meeting with the National Policy Council to discuss the ramifications of the flood.

At least 20 people, mainly schoolchildren and teachers, were killed on Thursday in a flash flood near Jordan's Dead Sea that happened during a school field trip, rescuers and hospital workers said.

Heavy rains hit Jordan on Thursday afternoon, causing floods in several areas which led to the worst disaster in years. The Dead Sea, the lowest point on the earth, is surrounded by steep valleys that frequently witness flash floods and landslides.