A devastating suicide bombing struck the Khadijatul Kubra Mosque-cum-Imambargah in the Tarlai area of Islamabad during Friday prayers, resulting in the deaths of at least 70 people. According to official reports, more than 250 individuals sustained injuries, with several reported to be in critical condition. Police officials stated that the suicide bomber attempted to enter the premises but was intercepted by security personnel at the gate, where he subsequently detonated his explosives, causing widespread destruction.
Emergency Response and Security Measures
Following the explosion, a heavy contingent of Islamabad Police, Pakistan Army personnel, and Rangers arrived at the scene to secure the perimeter. A massive rescue operation was launched, with ambulances transporting the injured to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) and other nearby healthcare facilities. An emergency has been declared in all major hospitals across the capital to manage the high influx of casualties. Eyewitnesses described a scene of chaos, noting that the blast was powerful enough to damage the mosque structure and shatter windows of nearby buildings and vehicles.
Security Breach During Diplomatic Visit
The attack occurred while Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev was on a two-day official visit to Pakistan. At the time of the blast, President Mirziyoyev and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif were attending a scheduled event elsewhere in the city. While the event venue was far from the site of the explosion, the occurrence of such a high-profile attack in the capital has raised significant concerns regarding security protocols. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has demanded a comprehensive report from security agencies and directed officials to ensure the best possible medical care for the victims.
Official Statements and Political Reaction
" He expressed his condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for the swift recovery of the injured. Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry also voiced his grief, stating that such acts of terrorism can't deter the nation's resolve. He emphasized the need for national unity and urged citizens to cooperate with law enforcement agencies during this period of heightened security.
Analysis of Rising Terrorism Trends
According to analysts and recent data from the Global Terrorism Index 2025, Pakistan has ascended to the rank of the second most terror-affected country globally, moving up from the fourth position in 2024. Statistical data indicates a 90% increase in attacks by the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) over the past year. Also, groups such as the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) and Islamic State-Khorasan (IS-K) have intensified their operations, while while 90% of terror incidents remain concentrated in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, the recent targeting of the capital suggests a strategic shift by militant groups.
Conclusion and Current Investigation
As of now, no militant group has claimed responsibility for the suicide bombing. Forensic teams and counter-terrorism departments are currently analyzing evidence from the site, including CCTV footage, to identify the perpetrators. This incident follows a previous suicide blast in Islamabad's G-11 area in November 2025, which claimed 12 lives. The government has reiterated its commitment to a zero-tolerance policy against terrorism, though security experts suggest that a complete overhaul of urban security frameworks may be necessary to prevent future occurrences.