DEBKAfile Exclusive:

DEBKAfile, Political Analysis, Espionage, Terrorism Security


The multiple Katyusha rocket attack Friday on Jordan’s Aqaba port, US naval shipping docked there and the twin Israeli Red Sea port-resort of Eilat was the work of a Jordanian al Qaeda team controlled by Abu Musab al Zarqawi.

August 19, 2005, 11:47 AM (GMT+02:00)

1. Two US warships anchored in Aqaba. One, the USS Ashland landing ship with elements of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Force aboard, was just missed and damaged. The rocket struck a warehouse on a nearby pier. No US marines or sailors were hurt. Both ships have put out to sea.

2. Another rocket exploded on the Emir Haya base parade ground during drill practice and is believed to have killed at least one Jordanian soldier and wounded several.

3. The Katyusha aimed at Eilat landed on a road outside the airport, exploded partiall and injured one Israeli.

Aqaba port was cleared of shipping and Eilat airport closed.

DEBKAfile’s Eilat sources report Jordan has imposed curfew on eastern Aqaba and is scouring the town for the missile launchers and brought in military reinforcements. Israeli and Jordanian security are cooperating in the investigation.