Islamabad Shia Mosque Bombing Claims Lives of 32 People in Pakistan

Pakistan’s government has accused Indian-backed proxies of carrying out a recent suicide bombing at a Shia mosque in Islamabad. The attack, which occurred on Friday during prayers, resulted in the deaths of at least 32 people and injured 170 others.

The victims are being laid to rest on Saturday as authorities conduct a security crackdown. In connection with the incident, police have arrested two brothers and a woman in Peshawar city, who were allegedly linked to the alleged suicide bomber’s hideout.

The ISIL (ISIS) armed group has claimed responsibility for the attack. This is the deadliest such incident in Islamabad since September 2008, when a suicide truck bomb killed over 60 people and destroyed part of the Marriott Hotel.

Pakistan’s leaders have pledged justice and unity following the deadly attack. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated that the country would continue to combat terrorism and stand united. President Asif Ali Zardari acknowledged global messages of condolence and solidarity in reinforcing Pakistan’s commitment to peace and unity.

In response, India has rejected the accusation as “baseless and pointless”. The Ministry of External Affairs stated that while it condemned the attack and offered condolences to the victims, it expressed disappointment that Pakistan would instead blame others for its own domestic issues.

Source: Al Jazeera