World leaders condemn Islamabad imambargah attack, back Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: A wave of international and domestic condemnation followed the suicide bombing at Imambargah Khadijah al-Kubra in Islamabad’s Tarlai area, as Pakistan mourned the deaths of worshippers and treated scores of wounded.

Officials said emergency services were placed on high alert across the capital, with major hospitals declaring emergencies and mobilising medical staff to handle incoming casualties. Rescue teams shifted the injured to multiple hospitals while security forces sealed off the site for investigation and evidence collection.

Witness accounts indicated the attacker opened fire near the entrance before detonating explosives when confronted by security at the main gate.

President Asif Ali Zardari expressed grief over the loss of life and extended condolences to bereaved families, while Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif denounced the attack and directed authorities to investigate thoroughly and identify those responsible.

The United States Embassy in Islamabad issued a statement condemning the bombing, calling violence against civilians and places of worship unacceptable and conveying condolences to families of the deceased and wounded. The statement said Washington stood with Pakistan and supported efforts aimed at strengthening peace and security.

Other international reactions also expressed solidarity with Pakistan, condemning the attack and offering condolences as authorities continued emergency response operations and the security investigation.