Yesterday around 12:30 p.m., a suicide bomber struck outside the district court complex in Islamabad, killing at least 12 people and injuring dozens more 😔.
Local footage showed bloodstained victims beside a burning police van as emergency workers rushed to help. The district court area is usually buzzing with lawyers, judges and litigants attending daily hearings.
The Pakistani Taliban, known as Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), claimed responsibility. In their statement, they said they targeted "judges, lawyers and officials who carried out rulings under Pakistan's un-Islamic laws", and warned of more attacks until Islamic law is fully implemented.
Pakistani ministers pointed fingers at neighbouring Afghanistan, accusing it of harbouring militants—a claim Kabul denies. Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif declared, "We are in a state of war", and vowed retaliation if Afghan authorities don’t act. This is the first attack on civilians in Islamabad in a decade.
Across social media in South Asia and Southeast Asia, people expressed shock and solidarity, using hashtags like #IslamabadAttack and #PeaceForPak ✌️. Young netizens are calling for unity and stronger regional security to prevent future tragedies.
As investigations continue, many hope this painful day will spark meaningful dialogue on peace and justice in the region.
Reference(s):
Pakistani Taliban claim responsibility for Islamabad suicide bombing
cgtn.com
