Iran strongly condemns 'terrorist' mosque blast in Islamabad
Iran has strongly condemned the deadly explosion at a Shia mosque in Pakistan’s capital, Islamabad, which left more than 30 people dead and over 160 injured.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei denounced the “terrorist act” at the Hazrat Khadijah al-Kubra (PBUH) Mosque in the Tarlai area of Islamabad during Friday prayers.
Baghaei extended condolences to the families of the victims as well as to the government and people of Pakistan. He also prayed for the swift recovery of those wounded in the “criminal act.”
Reaffirming Iran’s principled stance, the spokesperson stressed the Islamic Republic’s firm condemnation of “all forms and manifestations of terrorism and violent extremism.”
He said preventing and combating terrorism requires cooperation and coordination among all countries in the region, as well as sustained efforts against its perpetrators, organizers, supporters and financiers.
The blast struck Imambargah Khadijah al-Kubra during Friday prayers. A district administration spokesperson said at least 31 people were killed and 169 injured.
A police source warned that the toll was “expected to rise further.”
Images from the scene showed bodies on the mosque’s carpeted floor amid shattered glass and debris. Dozens of injured worshippers were seen outside the building as rescue efforts got underway.
Islamabad Capital Territory Police spokesperson Taqi Jawad said it was too early to determine the exact nature of the blast, though initial indications pointed to a possible suicide bombing.
The area was sealed off, and officials were assigned to oversee treatment for the injured.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed his “deep grief,” while President Asif Ali Zardari said, “Targeting innocent civilians is a crime against humanity.”
No group has claimed responsibility for the attack.
Pakistan is a Sunni-majority nation but Shias make up between 10 and 15 percent of the population and have been targeted in attacks throughout the region in the past.
Shia mosque explosion in Islamabad kills more than 30, injures over 160
Pakistan deploys helicopters, drones to retake town from insurgents
Scores of Baloch militarnts killed in Pakistan after deadly attacks
Iran FM declares ‘good start’ as US–Iran talks conclude in Muscat
Iran strongly condemns 'terrorist' mosque blast in Islamabad
Iran enters talks backed by national power, popular support: MP
France, UK involved in assassination of Muammar Gaddafi's son: Reports
Shia mosque explosion in Islamabad kills more than 30, injures over 160
Iran defense minister in Azerbaijan to boost security, defense ties
Iran-US talks in Oman focus solely on nuclear issue: Envoy
Ex-PM Olmert admits Israel committing ‘ethnic cleansing’ in West Bank
PressTV NEWSLETTER
now
This makes it easy to access the Press TV website
