Deadly suicide bombing strikes mosque in Islamabad during Friday prayers

A devastating suicide bombing at a mosque in Pakistan’s capital, Islamabad, has left at least 31 people dead and 169 others injured, according to police and emergency officials. The attack took place during Friday prayers, when the mosque was filled with worshippers.

The explosion occurred as people had gathered inside and around the mosque, causing widespread panic and destruction. Witnesses described scenes of chaos, with injured worshippers lying amid debris as others rushed to help or flee the area.

Emergency response and casualties

Rescue teams, police, and ambulances were dispatched to the scene within minutes of the blast. The wounded were taken to several hospitals in Islamabad, where emergency protocols were activated. Medical officials said many of the injured suffered severe wounds, and some remain in critical condition, raising fears that the death toll could rise.

Hospital authorities appealed to the public for blood donations to help treat the large number of victims.

Nature of the attack

Police confirmed that the incident was a suicide bombing. Preliminary investigations indicate that the attacker detonated explosives during the prayer gathering, maximizing casualties. Security forces cordoned off the area while bomb disposal and forensic teams searched for additional threats and collected evidence.

Authorities are reviewing security arrangements at the mosque and surrounding areas to determine how the attacker was able to carry out the assault.

Official reactions

Pakistan’s political leadership strongly condemned the bombing. Senior government officials described the attack as a brutal act of terrorism and expressed deep sorrow for the loss of innocent lives. Leaders vowed that those responsible would be brought to justice and ordered a full investigation.

Security has been heightened across Islamabad, particularly at religious sites and crowded public locations, as a precaution against further attacks.

Ongoing investigation

No militant group has immediately claimed responsibility for the bombing. However, investigators are examining possible links to extremist organizations that have previously carried out attacks on religious gatherings in Pakistan.

Law enforcement agencies said intelligence-based operations may be launched in response, depending on findings from the investigation.

Broader context

The attack comes amid a period of increased militant activity in parts of Pakistan. While major attacks in the capital are relatively rare, religious sites have historically been targeted in acts of sectarian violence, making Friday prayers a particularly vulnerable time.

The incident has once again raised serious concerns about public safety and the protection of worshippers across the country.

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