Islamabad, February 6, 2026: Condemnations from across the world poured in after a suicide bomber targeted Imambargah Khadijah al-Kubra in Islamabad’s Tarlai area, killing at least 31 worshippers and injuring dozens during Friday prayers.
Officials fear the death toll could rise as emergency services remain on high alert. All major hospitals in the federal capital declared an emergency, mobilizing doctors, nurses, and paramedics to ensure immediate medical care for the injured.
Rescue teams transported victims to multiple hospitals, while security forces cordoned off the area and began collecting evidence. Eyewitnesses reported that the attacker allegedly opened fire at the entrance before detonating explosives when guards attempted to stop him at the main gate.
President Asif Ali Zardari expressed deep grief over the tragedy, offering condolences to the bereaved families and praying for patience for those who lost loved ones. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also condemned the attack, ordered the immediate identification and arrest of those responsible, and extended sympathies to the affected families.
International community reacts
United States: The US Embassy in Islamabad strongly condemned the attack, stating that “all acts of terror and violence are unacceptable.” Charge d’Affaires Natalie A. Baker conveyed sincere condolences to the families of those killed and to the wounded, emphasizing that violence against civilians and places of worship cannot be justified. The embassy reaffirmed Washington’s support for Pakistan’s efforts to promote peace and security and expressed solidarity during this challenging time.
United Kingdom: UK High Commissioner Jane Marriott said she was “outraged and heartbroken” by the horrific attack, describing such violence as abhorrent. She extended thoughts and prayers to the victims and voiced solidarity with the people of Pakistan.
China: The Chinese Embassy expressed deep sorrow over the casualties, extending heartfelt condolences to the victims and sympathies to their families while wishing the injured a swift recovery. The embassy reiterated that China “stands firmly with its Pakistani brothers and sisters” in this difficult period.
Iran: Iranian Ambassador Reza Amiri Moghadam described the bombing as a “hideous act” that led to the martyrdom and injury of dozens of innocent civilians, conveying condemnation on behalf of the Iranian government and people.
Türkiye: The Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the attack in the strongest terms and extended condolences to the families of those killed. Ankara also reaffirmed its solidarity with Pakistan in the fight against terrorism.
European Union: EU Ambassador Raimundas Karoblis said he was deeply shocked by the suicide attack, calling it a heinous act. He stressed that the European Union strongly condemns terrorism and violent extremism and stands with the people of Pakistan.
Afghanistan: Afghanistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs also denounced the bombing. Spokesperson Abdul Qahar Balkhi said such attacks violate the sanctity of mosques and sacred rituals while targeting innocent worshippers.
The wave of international condemnation underscores growing global concern over terrorism, with countries reaffirming support for Pakistan as authorities continue investigations into one of the deadliest attacks in the capital in recent years.
