At least 31 people were killed and 169 others sustained injuries after a devastating explosion ripped through an imambargah in Pakistan’s federal capital during Friday prayers.
The blast occurred at Imambargah Khadijah al-Kubra, located in the Tarlai area of Islamabad.
Visuals from the scene depicted a harrowing sight, with bloodied victims lying amidst debris and shattered glass on the mosque floor, while survivors in the facility’s garden scrambled for assistance.
While Islamabad Capital Territory Police Spokesperson Taqi Jawad noted it was too early to confirm the exact nature of the explosion, he stated that initial evidence pointed toward a suicide bombing.
Following the incident, security forces cordoned off the area, and assistant commissioners were deployed to manage the medical crisis at various facilities.
An emergency was declared at major hospitals, including the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), Polyclinic, and CDA Hospital.
PIMS Executive Director confirmed that the hospital’s burn centre, neurology, orthopaedic, and emergency departments have been fully activated to treat the wounded. Authorities have also made an urgent appeal for citizens to donate blood.
The terror attack took place during the two-day official visit of Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev to Pakistan.
National and international condemnation
The tragedy has drawn widespread condemnation from Pakistan’s top leadership. President Asif Ali Zardari described the targeting of innocent civilians as a “crime against humanity” and directed authorities to provide the best possible medical care to the survivors.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep grief, strongly condemning the blast in an official statement.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Tariq Fazal Chaudhry termed the attack a “cowardly act” and urged national unity for the sake of stability and peace.
However, Senate Opposition Leader Allama Raja Nasir Abbas criticised the administration, stating that such a security breach in the federal capital represents a “grave failure” of law enforcement agencies. He further remarked that attacking places of worship is a direct assault on religious and social values.
The Iranian Ambassador to Pakistan, Reza Amiri Moghadam, also issued a statement on behalf of his government, condemning the “hideous” terrorist act and extending condolences to the bereaved families.
This latest incident marks a significant security lapse in Islamabad, occurring less than three months after a suicide blast in the G-11 area on 11 November 2025, which claimed 12 lives. Police and Rescue 1,122 personnel continue to carry out operations as the situation evolves.
