A blast has been reported at the Shia mosque (Imambargah), Qasr-e-Khadijatul Kubra, in Islamabad during Friday prayers. At least 61 people were killed and over 150 were injured in the explosion, according to Pakistani media reports.
The attack occurred during the two-day official visit of Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.
Islamabad Capital Territory Police spokesperson Taqi Jawad said it was premature to determine the exact nature of the explosion, though initial indications suggested it could be a suicide bombing.
President Asif Ali Zardari offered condolences to those who lost their lives, according to a statement released by the PPP on X. He mourned the tragedy, stating that targeting innocent civilians is a crime against humanity.
The president also prayed for the swift recovery of the injured and instructed authorities to ensure they receive the best possible medical care. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the explosion, expressing deep sorrow and strongly denouncing the attack, AFP reported.
The explosion occurred within the mosque compound, at the entrance to the main building. According to reports, the incident appears to be a suicide attack. Law enforcement agencies have reached the scene, and investigations are underway.
Disturbing videos from the scene have surfaced on social media, showing severed human body parts scattered across the floor. The footage also shows apparent human bodies covered with carpets lying on the ground as locals gathered to learn what had happened after the blast.
In November last year, a suicide bomber detonated explosives at the entrance of the Islamabad District Judicial Complex, leaving at least 12 people dead and dozens injured.
Authorities are yet to release the death toll figures.
(This is a breaking news. More details to follow.)
