Attack During Friday Prayers Kills 31, Sparks International Outrage
A suicide bombing at the Imambargah Khadijah al-Kubra in Islamabad’s Tarlai area has drawn swift and severe condemnation from across the globe. The attack, which occurred during Friday prayers on February 6, 2026, killed at least 31 worshippers and wounded dozens more, prompting emergency measures across the Pakistani capital.
Eyewitnesses reported that the attacker opened fire at the entrance before detonating explosives when guards attempted to intervene. Rescue teams rushed the injured to hospitals, while security forces cordoned off the area to collect evidence. Officials fear the death toll may rise.
International Community Expresses Solidarity with Pakistan
The United States led the international response, with the US Embassy in Islamabad issuing a strong statement. “All acts of terror and violence are unacceptable,” the embassy said, condemning the attack that targeted innocent worshippers. US Charge d’Affaires Natalie A. Baker offered condolences, reiterating that violence against civilians and places of worship cannot be justified. The statement affirmed Washington’s support for Pakistan’s peace and security efforts.
United Kingdom High Commissioner Jane Marriott said she was “outraged and heartbroken” by the horrific attack, extending her thoughts and prayers to the victims and their families. She termed the violence “abhorrent” and expressed solidarity with the Pakistani people.
China, Regional Neighbors Voice Support
The Chinese Embassy expressed deep sorrow and extended heartfelt condolences, emphasizing that China “stands firmly” with its Pakistani brothers and sisters during this difficult time.
Regional powers also voiced strong condemnation. Iranian Ambassador Reza Amiri Moghadam described the attack as a “hideous act” that led to the martyrdom of innocent civilians, conveying condemnation on behalf of Iran’s government and people.
Turkey’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the attack “in the strongest terms,” expressing condolences and solidarity with Pakistan in its fight against terrorism.
EU, Afghanistan Join in Condemning ‘Heinous Act’
European Union Ambassador Raimundas Karoblis expressed deep shock, calling the suicide attack a “heinous act.” He stated that the EU strongly condemns all acts of terrorism and violent extremism, standing in solidarity with Pakistan.
In a notable statement, Afghanistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs also strongly condemned the bombing. Spokesperson Abdul Qahar Balkhi said Kabul condemns attacks that violate the sanctity of mosques and target innocent worshippers.
Pakistani Leadership Vows Action
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed profound grief and condemned the attack. PM Sharif ordered the immediate identification and arrest of those responsible for the tragedy.
The attack has cast a pall over the nation, with the international community’s unified response highlighting a shared commitment to condemning religiously motivated terrorism and supporting Pakistan’s stability.
