Friday turned out to be a devastating day for Pakistan as a powerful blast rocked a Shia mosque in Islamabad's Khadija-tul-Kubra Imambara during Friday prayers. The explosion was so intense that its roar was heard several meters away. The congregation had no chance to react, resulting in over two dozen fatalities and more than 170 injuries.
Chaos erupted throughout the capital in the aftermath. Police and government officials confirmed the attack occurred at the Khadija-tul-Kubra Imambara situated on Islamabad's outskirts.
According to local news channels and international agencies, the explosion claimed 31 lives and injured over 170 people, with many in critical condition receiving hospital treatment.
Security Challenged Attacker, Explosion at Gate
Two police officers reported that the attacker was halted by two security personnel stationed at the Imambara gate, causing him to panic and detonate the device. Reuters provided this information.
Source: aajtak
An Unrestrained Entry Would Have Worsened Casualties
While the blast shook the entire area, police officials said the casualties could have been far higher had the attacker entered the mosque interior.
Horrifying Scenes at the Blast Site
Images from the site showed blood-stained floors, shattered glass, and debris. Many injured individuals lay in gardens outside the mosque, helped by locals and security teams to reach medical facilities.
Further Reading:
Source: aajtak
Government and Political Reactions
Pakistan’s Parliamentary Affairs Minister, Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, condemned the act as terrorism, asserting such cowardly deeds cannot weaken the nation’s resolve. Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, expressed that targeting worshippers is an attack on humanity and national consciousness, causing concern for society.
Source: aajtak
Ongoing Investigation, IG’s Relative Among the Deceased
The spokesperson for Islamabad Capital Territory Police, Taqi Javad, stated that conclusions regarding the explosion's nature are premature. It's noted that among the dead is a relative of Islamabad's Inspector General of Police.
Rising Violence in Pakistan and Targeting of Shia Community
Islamabad typically enjoys robust security, making such explosions rare; however, Pakistan has witnessed increasing violent incidents in recent years. The Shia community, a minority in Pakistan, has historically faced sectarian violence. Groups like the Taliban have been accused of targeting Shias.
Explore Further:
No Group Claims Responsibility Yet
No organization has claimed responsibility for this attack so far. Investigative agencies are conducting thorough analyses of all aspects. The voices demanding stricter security are growing to prevent future incidents.
