China and Turkey have issued strong condemnations and expressed solidarity with Pakistan following a devastating suicide bombing at a mosque in Islamabad that killed 33 people and injured dozens.
International Condemnation and Support
In an official statement, China’s foreign ministry expressed deep shock over the “heavy casualties” and extended condolences to the victims’ families. “China strongly condemns the attack, opposes any form of terrorism and firmly supports the Pakistani government in safeguarding national security and stability,” the statement read.
Separately, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan conveyed condolences to Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar in a phone call. According to Pakistan’s Foreign Office, Fidan expressed sympathy on behalf of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and the Turkish people. Dar thanked Turkey for its support and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to combating terrorism.
Attack Details and Investigation
The attack targeted the Imambargah and Mosque Khadijat-ul-Kubra in Islamabad’s Tarlai area during Friday prayers. Authorities report the suicide bomber opened fire before detonating an explosive device at the entrance.
Investigative sources reveal new details:
- The attacker used approximately 4 kilograms of explosives laden with ball bearings.
- He conducted reconnaissance of the mosque days before the attack.
- The bomber, identified as a 32-year-old from Peshawar, had reportedly received training in Afghanistan.
Mastermind Arrested, India Accused
Pakistan’s Interior Minister, Mohsin Naqvi, announced that security forces have arrested the alleged mastermind of the attack and several facilitators in raids in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Naqvi stated the individual is associated with the banned Daesh (ISIS) group.
In a significant allegation, the minister claimed, “I am telling you again with clarity that their entire funding is being provided by India. All targets being provided to them by India.” He did not provide immediate evidence for the claim. A police officer was martyred during the arrest operations.
The international expressions of support come as Pakistan continues its investigation into one of the deadliest attacks in the capital in recent months.
