ISLAMABAD: A suicide attack struck Imambargah Khadijah-tul-Kubra in Islamabad’s Tarlai area during Friday prayers, killing at least 31 people and injuring 169, officials confirmed. The explosion tore through the prayer hall, leaving blood-stained floors, shattered glass, and scenes of panic as worshippers rushed to help the wounded. Many of the injured were found in the garden outside the imambargah and were shifted to PIMS and Polyclinic Hospital, where emergencies were declared across the capital.
Authorities said security guards challenged the attacker, who opened fire before detonating explosives among worshippers. Rescue teams reached the site within minutes, and the area was sealed off as investigations began.
Senior government officials alleged external involvement, claiming the attacker had links to travel in Afghanistan and accusing India of sponsoring terrorism through proxy groups. The interior ministry said forensic analysis was ongoing and a detailed report identifying the planners and handlers would be released within 72 hours.
Officials reiterated the government’s commitment to enforcing the National Action Plan and vowed to continue operations against militant groups, stressing that attacks on mosques, imambargahs, schools, and markets would not weaken the state’s resolve.
