Deadly explosion in Pakistani capital draws global condemnation

At least 31 killed, scores wounded in suicide attack on religious site in Islamabad.

A deadly explosion in Pakistan’s capital, Islamabad, on Friday triggered widespread international condemnation, as leaders and institutions across the globe denounced the attack and expressed solidarity with Pakistan.

A suicide bomber targeted a mosque in Islamabad, killing at least 31 people and injuring 169 others, according to Pakistani authorities.

Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif alleged involvement by India and Afghanistan, claims that were swiftly rejected by both countries. Kabul and New Delhi also condemned the attack and offered condolences to the victims and their families.

Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev conveyed condolences to Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, according to Kazakhstan’s Akorda presidential press service and Uzbek presidential press secretary Sherzod Asadov.

Russian President Vladimir Putin described the attack as “barbaric,” extending condolences to Pakistan’s leadership and the families of the victims. He said Russia stands ready to support Pakistan in counterterrorism efforts, according to the Kremlin.

China’s Embassy in Islamabad said Beijing stands “firmly with our Pakistani brothers and sisters in this difficult time,” expressing condolences in a message on US social media platform X.

Türkiye’s Foreign Ministry condemned the bombing and expressed solidarity with Pakistan in its fight against terrorism, in a statement posted on Turkish social media platform NSosyal.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baqaei said preventing and combating terrorism requires “the cooperation and coordination of all countries in the region,” as well as sustained efforts to confront its perpetrators, organizers, supporters and financial backers.

Saudi Arabia and Qatar also condemned the attack, with their foreign ministries expressing firm opposition to violence against places of worship in separate messages on X.

Somalia’s Foreign Ministry expressed solidarity with Pakistan and condemned “violence against civilians and places of worship,” also in a statement on X.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the attack in the “strongest terms,” stressing that attacks against civilians and religious sites are “unacceptable,” according to his spokesperson.

European reactions followed, with the French Embassy in Pakistan condemning the attack and saying, “We stand with Pakistan in opposing all forms of terrorism,” in a post on X.

German Ambassador to Pakistan Ina Lepel said she hopes those responsible will be found and “brought to justice,” adding, “We mourn the loss of life,” in a message on X.

UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said Britain “stands with Pakistan in the fight against terrorism and in support of all communities affected by such senseless violence,” in a statement on X.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said he was “horrified” by the attack and that Canadians are keeping the people of Pakistan, the victims, the wounded and their loved ones “in our thoughts today,” in a message on X.

Australian High Commissioner to Pakistan Timothy Kane said Australia stands with Pakistan during this difficult time and mourns alongside the country, also in a post on X.

US Chargé d’Affaires Natalie A. Baker said the people of Pakistan “deserve safety, dignity, and the ability to practice their faith without fear.” She added that Washington continues to support Pakistan’s efforts to advance peace and security and remains committed to its partnership with Islamabad aimed at promoting stability.

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