In a late-night statement, the MEA expressed condolences to the families of those killed in the blast, which occurred during Friday prayers at an Imambara in the Shahzad Town area. “India extends its deepest condolences on the loss of lives and property in the blast at the mosque in Islamabad,” the statement said. Responding to comments by Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, who alleged involvement of India and Afghanistan, the MEA said Pakistan was “deceiving itself” by externalising responsibility for acts of terror within its borders.

The suicide attack struck when a large number of worshippers had gathered for prayers, triggering scenes of panic and devastation. According to Pakistani daily Dawn, at least 31 people were killed and 169 injured, though some local media reports placed the death toll higher. Rescue teams rushed the injured to nearby hospitals as security forces cordoned off the area and began investigations.

Pakistan’s political leadership condemned the attack. President Asif Ali Zardari termed the targeting of worshippers an “attack against humanity” and directed authorities to ensure the best possible medical care for the injured. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Tariq Fazal Chaudhary also denounced the bombing, calling for national unity and support for law enforcement agencies in combating terrorism.

The Islamabad blast comes amid heightened security concerns in Pakistan’s capital. In November 2025, a suicide bombing outside the District and Sessions Court in Islamabad’s G-11 sector killed at least 12 people, underscoring the persistent threat posed by militant groups even in high-security zones.

Pakistan’s deteriorating security situation has been highlighted by the Global Terrorism Index 2025, which ranked the country as the world’s second most terrorism-affected nation, after Burkina Faso. The report pointed to a sharp rise in militant violence, with attacks by Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan increasing by 90% and those by the Baloch Liberation Army rising by 60%. Islamic State-Khorasan has also expanded operations, targeting major urban centres.

While investigations into the latest attack are ongoing, India reiterated that attempts to link it to acts of terror in Pakistan lack evidence and credibility. The MEA stressed that meaningful progress against terrorism would require Pakistan to confront extremist violence within its own society rather than make “unfounded accusations” against neighbouring countries.