ISLAMABAD: A devastating suicide bombing struck a Shia imambargah inIslamabad’s Tarlai area during Friday prayers, killing at least 31worshippers and injuring 169 others in one of the deadliest terroristincidents in the Pakistani capital in recent years. The explosion targetedthe Khadija Tul Kubra Imambargah, where devotees had gathered forcongregational prayers, highlighting persistent sectarian vulnerabilitiesamid ongoing security challenges. Russian President Vladimir Putin swiftlycondemned the attack as barbaric and reiterated Moscow’s commitment tobolstering counter-terrorism collaboration with Pakistan.
The blast occurred when a suicide bomber detonated explosives at theentrance of the imambargah in the southeastern Tarlai Kalan suburb, afterbeing challenged by security personnel. Eyewitness accounts described apowerful detonation that shattered windows, scattered debris, and leftbodies strewn across the prayer hall. Rescue teams, including Rescue 1122and paramilitary forces, responded promptly, transferring the wounded tonearby hospitals where many remain in critical condition. Authoritiesconfirmed the incident as a suicide attack, with forensic investigationsunderway to determine the explosive type and possible linkages.
This attack marks a significant escalation in threats against Shiareligious sites in Pakistan, where such places have historically facedtargeted violence from extremist groups. The casualty figures, with 31fatalities and over 169 injuries, underscore the severity, making it themost lethal assault in Islamabad since major incidents over a decade ago.No group initially claimed responsibility, though some reports indicatedIslamic State affiliates later asserted involvement, reflecting the complexmilitant landscape influenced by regional instability.
President Putin’s response came through formal letters addressed toPresident Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. In themessages, delivered via the Russian Embassy, he expressed profound sorrowover the loss of innocent lives during a sacred religious ceremony. Putindescribed the act as a stark reminder of terrorism’s inhumane essence,extending heartfelt sympathies to the victims’ families and wishing swiftrecovery for the injured. His statement emphasized solidarity with Pakistanduring this mourning period.
The Russian leader explicitly reaffirmed Moscow’s willingness to deepenbilateral cooperation in combating terrorism. This offer aligns withexisting frameworks between the two nations, including joint exercises andintelligence sharing aimed at addressing common threats. Putin’s outreachhighlights Russia’s strategic interest in South Asia, particularly incountering transnational militant networks that extend beyond borders,including those originating from Afghanistan.
Pakistan has long grappled with terrorism, with sectarian attacks claimingnumerous lives over the years. The Tarlai incident revives concerns aboutintelligence lapses and border security, as officials pointed to possibleexternal linkages. The government condemned the violence unequivocally,vowing to pursue perpetrators relentlessly and enhance protective measuresfor vulnerable communities. Public outrage has grown, with calls forstronger anti-terror policies and unity across sects.
International condemnations have poured in, reflecting global solidarityagainst such acts. The attack’s timing during Friday prayers amplifies itsbarbarity, targeting peaceful worshippers and aiming to sow division.Security forces cordoned off the area, conducting sweeps and investigationsto prevent follow-up threats. Hospitals in Islamabad remain overwhelmed,treating blast injuries ranging from shrapnel wounds to severe trauma.
Pakistan-Russia relations have warmed in recent years, encompassing energy,defense, and security domains. Joint counter-terrorism efforts, includingmilitary drills, demonstrate mutual recognition of shared risks fromextremist ideologies. Putin’s pledge could translate into enhancedtechnical assistance, training, or intelligence exchange, building on priorcommitments to counter regional instability.
The tragedy has prompted reflection on broader counter-terrorism strategiesin Pakistan, where despite military operations, sporadic attacks persist.Strengthening community vigilance, improving intelligence coordination, andaddressing root causes remain critical. The victims, mostly ordinarycitizens attending prayers, represent the human cost of ideologicalextremism that spares no sanctity.
As investigations continue, the focus remains on justice for the bereavedand prevention of future atrocities. Putin’s message serves as a diplomaticboost, reinforcing international support for Pakistan’s fight againstterrorism amid domestic grief.
Source:https://www.dawn.com/news/1971418/at-least-31-killed-169-injured-in-suicide-bombing-at-islamabad-imambargah
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