ISLAMABAD: At least twelve people were killed and around thirty others injured in a suicide blast outside the district and sessions court building in Islamabad’s G-11 area on Tuesday, officials confirmed.
The explosion occurred around 12:39 p.m., shaking the federal capital at a time when several major international events — including the Inter-Parliamentary Speakers’ Conference and the 6th Margalla Dialogue — were being hosted. Meanwhile, a cricket match between Pakistan and Sri Lanka was underway in Rawalpindi.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, briefing the media at the scene, confirmed it was a “suicide blast.” He said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was closely monitoring the situation and had directed hospitals to provide the best possible treatment to the injured.
“The attacker stood outside the court for around 12 minutes,” Naqvi revealed. “He tried to enter the premises but, failing to do so, detonated himself near a police vehicle.” He added that identifying the attacker was a “top priority,” assuring that authorities would determine his identity within hours.
“We are not taking this blast as just another one,” the minister said, suggesting the timing carried significant implications. “The targeting of the federal capital sends many messages,” he added, emphasizing that the state would respond decisively.
CCTV footage reviewed by investigators showed the bomber loitering outside the court, attempting to assess possible entry points before detonating the explosives. Among those killed was a lawyer, while several police personnel were also injured. The driver of the targeted police vehicle reportedly survived.
Dr. Mubahshir Daha, spokesperson for the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), confirmed that twelve people had been “martyred” and thirty injured. “An emergency has been declared at PIMS, and all medical resources are being utilized to assist the victims,” he said.
Following the attack, security across Islamabad — particularly around the Judicial Complex, adjoining courts, and other sensitive installations — has been significantly tightened, according to police officials.
