A deadly suicide bombing struck a Shiite Muslim mosque in Pakistan’s capital, Islamabad, during Friday prayers, killing at least 31 people and injuring 169 others. Authorities described the attack as one of the worst acts of violence in the country in recent years.
The explosion happened when worshippers had gathered inside the mosque for prayers. The powerful blast caused panic and chaos, leaving many people injured. Rescue teams rushed to the scene and shifted the wounded to nearby hospitals, where several victims were reported to be in critical condition.
This was the deadliest attack in Pakistan since January 2023. At that time, a bombing at a mosque in Peshawar had killed more than 100 people, deeply shocking the nation.
Security forces sealed off the area after the attack and launched an investigation. Authorities are working to identify those behind the bombing and have increased security across Islamabad and other major cities to prevent further incidents.
The attack was strongly condemned both inside Pakistan and internationally. The United States Embassy in Islamabad issued a statement on social media platform X, calling the incident unacceptable. The embassy said that violence against civilians and places of worship has no justification and stressed that the people of Pakistan deserve to practice their faith without fear.
President Asif Ali Zardari also condemned the attack in strong words. He described the targeting of innocent worshippers as a “crime against humanity.” The president expressed solidarity with the families of the victims and said the entire nation stands with them during this difficult time.
Political leaders, religious scholars, and citizens across the country expressed grief and anger over the tragedy. Many called for unity, peace, and firm action against those responsible.
As Pakistan mourns the loss of innocent lives, authorities have vowed to bring the attackers to justice and strengthen measures to protect places of worship across the country.