Jordan vows to combat terrorism as pilot captured by IS

Jordan Wednesday said it will continue its war on terrorism and terrorist groups to defend Islam.

Minister of State for Media Affairs Mohammad Momani said the government voiced solidarity with the family and tribe of the pilot captured by Islamic State (IS) early Wednesday.

"When we entered the US-led coalition against the IS, we knew there will be losses such as some taken hostages or even martyrs. We will continue our war on terror and to defend the homeland," Momani said in an interview at the state-run Jordan TV.

Early Wednesday, the Jordan armed forces said the IS downed a Jordanian plane and arrested its pilot in Syria.

The pilot was part of a group of Jordanian fighter jets conducting a military mission against the IS targets, xinhua reported.

"Jordan holds the IS accountable for the safety of the pilot and preserving his life," the army said.

Relatives of the captured pilot, Mouath Kasasbeh, called on the authorities to make efforts to secure his release.