US diplomat shot dead in Jordan

A US embassy official has been "assassinated" outside his home in Amman, according to the Jordanian Information Minister Mohammad Adwan.

The diplomat has been identified as Lawrence Foley, who worked for the United States Agency for International Development, USAid, and lived in western Amman.

"An unidentified gunman fired at him, killing him on the spot as he prepared to leave his home early this morning to go to work," Mr Adwan said.

Several shots are believed to have been fired by at least one attacker.

Mr Adwan said the shooting was a "criminal and treacherous assassination", adding that "regardless of its motives it is an attack against Jordan and its national security".

An investigation has been launched into the shooting which happened at about 0730 local time (0530 GMT).

Mr Adwan said the perpetrator "will get his fair punishment".

More details soon.