The attacker attempted to enter the mosque but was stopped at the gate, following which he detonated himself. The assailant is suspected to be linked to the Fitna al-Khawarij group. Security forces immediately sealed off the area as rescue operations were launched.
Visuals from the spot
Islamabad: At least 31 people were killed and more than 160 injured after a powerful explosion ripped through a Shia mosque in Pakistan’s capital during Friday prayers. The blast occurred at the Imam Bargah Khadijat-ul-Kubra in the Tarlaai area, triggering panic and prompting authorities to declare an emergency across the city.
According to Pakistani media reports, the attacker attempted to enter the mosque but was stopped at the gate, following which he detonated himself. The assailant is suspected to be linked to the Fitna al-Khawarij group. Security forces immediately sealed off the area as rescue operations were launched.
Police officials said preliminary findings suggest the incident was a suicide bombing, though forensic teams are continuing investigations to confirm whether explosives were carried by the attacker or planted at the site. Islamabad Capital Territory Police spokesperson Taqi Jawad said it was too early to draw final conclusions.
The attack has heightened security concerns as it coincides with the two-day official visit of Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev to Pakistan.
Scenes of Chaos After Blast
Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos following the explosion, with worshippers running for safety amid debris and smoke. Videos circulating on social media showed several people lying injured inside the mosque premises, while others were seen helping the wounded.
Hospitals Put on High Alert
Authorities declared a medical emergency at major hospitals in the capital, including Polyclinic Hospital, Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) and CDA Hospital. A PIMS spokesperson said emergency services across departments such as orthopaedics, burn care and neurology were fully activated to treat the injured.
Security has been tightened across Islamabad, with heightened surveillance in sensitive areas as investigations continue.
