The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan faces increasing pressure to extradite Ahlam Aref Ahmad al-Tamimi, a self-confessed Hamas terrorist responsible for the fatal August 2001 bombing at a Jerusalem pizzeria. This tragic attack claimed the lives of 16 individuals, including three American citizens, which has prompted U.S. families like the Roths, who lost their daughter Malki in the attack, to advocate for her extradition. Arnold Roth recently met virtually with U.S. Attorney Jeanine F. Pirro, emphasizing the urgency of the case and urging U.S. officials to push Jordanian authorities to honor the 1995 treaty regarding extradition. The Roth family’s determination highlights the long-standing challenge they face in seeking justice for their daughter and other victims.
During the meeting, the Roths called for concrete actions to expedite al-Tamimi’s extradition. Arnold Roth made it clear that it was essential for the U.S. government to send a message to Jordan about the consequences of harboring terrorists. He noted that the U.S. justice system needs to be respected globally, particularly by those in positions of power. The Roths, representing the families of other victims, firmly believe that al-Tamimi should be brought to justice, and her case should be a priority for U.S. authorities. They reiterated the importance of holding terrorists accountable, especially those who have caused grief and loss to American families.
The U.S. State Department has maintained that it continuously impresses upon Jordan the necessity of holding al-Tamimi accountable for her admitted role in the attack, which killed not only Malki Roth but also Judith Shoshana Greenbaum and Chana Nachenberg. They reinforced that al-Tamimi is a brutal murderer whose actions warrant justice in the U.S. Her placement on the FBI’s Most Wanted Terrorists list underscores the severity of her crimes. However, frustrations have arisen, particularly from the Roth family, regarding the lack of engagement from U.S. officials in recent years, impacting their quest for justice.
Frimet Roth’s poignant plea to U.S. Attorney Pirro to act as a voice for the victims illustrates the emotional toll this case has taken on families involved. The Roths believe they can no longer fight this battle alone and are asking the U.S. government for more active involvement. They have submitted petitions with thousands of signatures as evidence of public support urging action against al-Tamimi. Their struggle reflects the broader challenges families face when seeking justice for acts of terrorism, feeling sidelined in favor of political interests and foreign policy considerations.
Jordan, a significant recipient of U.S. Foreign Military Financing, complicates the extradition issue. The U.S. has provided billions in military aid to Jordan, which raises questions about the influence this relationship has in the pursuit of justice for American victims of terrorism. Jordan’s refusal to extradite al-Tamimi despite U.S. appeals highlights a tension between diplomatic relationships and the pursuit of accountability for heinous acts. The ongoing support for Jordan further complicates the dynamics of justice, as families advocate for accountability while the U.S. navigates its complex foreign policy interests.
Al-Tamimi’s statements in the Arab media revealing her pride in her actions further fuel the urgency of the extradition appeal. Her unapologetic stance on the bombing indicates a conviction that poses a direct threat, reinforcing the need for legal action against her. With recent efforts by the U.S. government to engage with Jordanian officials about this case, the outcome remains uncertain. The Roth family’s unwavering determination serves as a reminder of the personal stakes involved, as they continue to demand justice for their daughter and all victims of terrorism, urging authorities to prioritize the extradition of al-Tamimi to demonstrate a commitment to upholding justice.
