Suicide Bombing at Shia Religious Centre in Pakistan Leaves 31 Dead, 169 Injured

Deadly Suicide Blast Hits Shia Religious Centre in Pakistan

A powerful suicide bombing at a Shia religious centre in Pakistan’s capital, Islamabad, has left at least 31 people dead and 169 others injured. The attack unfolded on Friday during a busy prayer gathering, transforming a place of worship into a scene of panic, destruction, and grief.

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Explosion Strikes During Congregational Prayers

The blast occurred at the Khadijatul Kubra mosque-cum-imambargah located in Islamabad’s Tarlai area. Hundreds of worshippers had assembled for Friday prayers when the suicide bomber detonated explosives near the main entrance of the religious complex.

Witnesses reported that the attacker attempted to enter the premises but was intercepted by security personnel stationed at the gate. Before he could be stopped completely, he triggered the explosives, causing a massive explosion that ripped through the crowd gathered outside and inside the entrance area.

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Casualties Mount as Rescue Operations Begin

Emergency services responded swiftly to the tragedy. Ambulances, rescue teams, and police units rushed to the site to evacuate victims and secure the area. The injured were transported to nearby hospitals, including the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) and Polyclinic Hospital.

Hospital authorities declared an emergency to manage the sudden influx of patients. Trauma units, surgical teams, and burn care specialists were placed on high alert. Officials confirmed that several victims remain in critical condition, and the death toll could rise further.

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National Leadership Condemns the Attack

Pakistan’s top leaders strongly denounced the bombing and expressed condolences to the victims’ families. President Asif Ali Zardari termed the attack an assault on humanity and vowed that the perpetrators would face strict punishment.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also condemned the incident, describing it as a cowardly act targeting innocent worshippers. He assured the public that authorities would conduct a thorough investigation and ensure the best medical treatment for the injured.

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Militant Involvement Suspected

While no group has officially claimed responsibility, security agencies suspect the involvement of extremist organisations. Groups such as Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Islamic State affiliates have a history of carrying out sectarian attacks, particularly targeting Shia communities.

Investigators are examining forensic evidence, CCTV footage, and intelligence inputs to identify the network behind the bombing.

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Security Tightened Across the Capital

In the wake of the attack, security has been significantly increased across Islamabad. Additional police and paramilitary forces have been deployed at mosques, imambargahs, and other religious sites to prevent further violence.

The tragedy has once again highlighted the persistent threat of terrorism in Pakistan. As families mourn their losses and hospitals struggle to save the injured, the nation grapples with yet another painful reminder of the dangers posed by extremist violence.