ISLAMABAD: In the wake of a devastating suicide bombing at a Shiite mosquein Islamabad’s Tarlai Kalan area, the United States has promptly issued afresh security alert urging American citizens in Pakistan to exerciseextreme caution amid elevated terrorism threats. The attack, which occurredduring Friday prayers on February 6, 2026, killed at least 31 people andinjured 169 others, marking the deadliest suicide incident in the capitalin over a decade. The US Embassy in Islamabad emphasized the need forvigilance, highlighting the persistent risk of militant violence targetingpublic spaces.
The bombing targeted the Khadija Tul Kubra Mosque, a Shia place of worshipon the southeastern outskirts of the city. According to official reports,the attacker opened fire at the entrance before detonating explosives,causing widespread casualties among worshippers. This assault has beendescribed as a rare and severe strike in Islamabad, where such large-scaleattacks have been infrequent in recent years compared to border regions.
An affiliate of the Islamic State group, identifying itself as IslamicState in Pakistan, swiftly claimed responsibility for the bombing throughits Amaq News Agency. The claim included an image purportedly showing theattacker, underscoring the group’s intent to exploit sectarianvulnerabilities. Analysts note that such claims align with the militantnetwork’s pattern of targeting minority communities to incite broaderinstability.
Pakistani authorities responded swiftly, arresting four suspects within aday of the attack, including an alleged Afghan national identified as themastermind. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi revealed that the operation wasplanned and the bomber trained in Afghanistan, pointing to cross-bordermilitant linkages. Security forces conducted raids across multiplelocations, demonstrating enhanced counterterrorism coordination despiteongoing challenges.
The incident has drawn widespread international condemnation, with UnitedNations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres strongly denouncing thetargeting of worshippers. Leaders from the United States, Russia, theEuropean Union, and neighboring countries expressed solidarity withPakistan, reaffirming support for efforts to combat terrorism. PrimeMinister Shehbaz Sharif described the attack as heart-wrenching and vowedjustice for the victims while appreciating global sympathy.
In its security alert dated February 6, 2026, the US Embassy advisedAmerican citizens to avoid large public gatherings, including religious andcultural events, and to review personal security plans thoroughly. Citizenswere instructed to maintain a low profile, carry valid identification,cooperate with local law enforcement, and monitor local media for updateson potential threats. The advisory also provided emergency contact detailsfor the US Embassy in Islamabad.
Pakistan maintains a Level 3 travel advisory from the US State Department,urging reconsideration of travel due to terrorism risks and potential armedconflict. While the overall advisory predates this event, the latest alertserves as a specific reminder following the mosque bombing. Terroristgroups continue to seek opportunities in major cities, including Islamabad,despite improvements in security in certain areas.
The attack occurs against a backdrop of surging militant activities inPakistan, particularly in regions bordering Afghanistan. Conflict monitorslike ACLED have recorded a rise in such incidents, with this bombingstanding out as the most lethal in the capital since the 2008 MarriottHotel attack that killed over 50 people. Experts warn thatsectarian-targeted violence could exacerbate internal divisions if notaddressed decisively.
Pakistan’s government has intensified security measures in Islamabad,deploying additional patrols and tightening checks around sensitive sites.Funerals for the victims proceeded under heavy protection, reflecting theheightened state of alert. Authorities continue investigations to dismantlenetworks linked to the perpetrators and prevent follow-up attacks.
This latest development underscores the fragile nature of security gains inPakistan. While progress has been made in countering groups likeTehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan, the emergence of Islamic State affiliates posesnew challenges. International cooperation remains crucial, as highlightedby the US commitment to supporting regional stability and Pakistan’scounterterrorism initiatives.
The bombing not only inflicts immediate human tragedy but also testsPakistan’s resilience in maintaining public safety amid evolving threats.As investigations unfold, the focus remains on apprehending all involvedparties and reinforcing protective measures for vulnerable communities.
Source:https://pk.usembassy.gov/security-alert-u-s-mission-to-pakistan-february-6-2026
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