ISLAMABAD – Another dark and sorrowful day for Pakistanis as Tragedy struck heart of Islamabad as devastating blast tore through Terlai Imam Bargah, leaving over two dozen dead and many more injured. Families grieve, hospitals are overflowing, and the nation reels in shock as authorities rush to care for the victims and hunt down those responsible for this senseless act of violence.
Death Toll jumps to 31; 179 injured
Islamabad authorities have confirmed that 31 people have died and 169 others injured in the blast at Tralayi Imam Bargah. Injured victims are being transported to PIMS, Polyclinic, and other hospitals. An emergency has been imposed across Islamabad. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the Health Minister to personally oversee treatment of the injured.
Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz Cancels Basant in Lahore
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz announced the cancellation of all Basant-related activities in Lahore, including the large show at Liberty Square.
She urged the nation to stay united against extremists and stand with Pakistan’s armed forces.
Interior Minister shares Details About Bomber
State Minister for Interior Talal Chaudhry stated the suicide bomber was not an Afghan citizen, but forensic analysis revealed his multiple trips to Afghanistan.
He confirmed 31 people have died and over 100 injured. Rescue teams reached the site within 12 minutes, and emergency protocols were activated in hospitals.
Iran Condemns Attack
Iranian Ambassador Reza Amiri Moghadam strongly condemned the Islamabad imambargah bombing. He expressed deep condolences to the families of victims and prayed for the recovery of the injured.
Chaos at Pakistan Stock Exchange
Soon after attack, Pakistan Stock Exchange 100 Index dropped by 4,200 points, falling to 183,600. Analysts linked drop to panic selling triggered by the incident, on top of pre-existing concerns about Iran-US negotiations.
Eyewitness Accounts
Eyewitnesses said three attackers were involved. He described severe casualties: “Some people lost arms, others legs. We transported the severely injured ourselves as ambulances arrived an hour later.”
Talal Chaudhry said terrorists are targeting easy locations, such as mosques, imambargahs, and markets, due to recent security pressure.
PM Shehbaz Sharif, other leaders condemn Attack
PM Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and extended condolences to victims’ families. He has instructed Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi to conduct a full investigation and bring the perpetrators to justice. The PM also emphasized that no one will be allowed to spread mischief or insecurity in the country.
Initial reports said 15 dead, over 80 injured
Initial reports confirmed at least 15 fatalities and over 80 injuries. Police confirmed the blast was a suicide attack. Emergency services were immediately deployed at PIMS, Polyclinic, and CDA hospitals. The blast site has been completely sealed.
Blast occurred in Imam Bargah courtyard
Police reported the explosion happened in the courtyard of Imam Bargah Khadijah-ul-Kubra. Rescue 1122 teams are transporting injured to hospitals. IG Islamabad declared a citywide emergency. Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry visited PIMS to check on the injured, ensuring best medical facilities are provided.
Authorities continue investigation. Stay tuned for further updates.
