A powerful explosion hit a mosque in Islamabad during crowded Friday prayers, killing at least 31 people and injuring 169 others. According to officials, “A deadly explosion struck a mosque in Islamabad during crowded Friday prayers,” turning a place of worship into a scene of devastation.

Authorities said the attacker was intercepted at the mosque entrance before detonating the explosives. Even though he was stopped, the blast still caused severe damage and heavy casualties among worshippers inside. Officials confirmed that “the attacker was stopped at the mosque entrance before detonating explosives,” highlighting how close the threat was to being contained.

Rescue efforts began immediately after the blast. “Rescue teams, police officers, and local residents rushed to the scene,” helping evacuate the injured amid chaos and debris. Victims were transported to hospitals using ambulances and private vehicles as emergency sirens echoed through the area.

Hospitals across Islamabad were quickly overwhelmed. “Medical centers across the capital quickly filled with injured adults and children,” while distressed families gathered outside emergency wards searching for relatives. The emotional toll was evident as doctors worked under pressure to treat the wounded.

Officials said several victims were still in critical condition, and security forces continued clearing and securing the area. Emergency crews remained on high alert as investigations began and authorities assessed the full scale of the damage.

Pakistan’s leadership strongly condemned the attack. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari expressed deep sorrow and ordered immediate medical support for survivors. Although no group claimed responsibility, the incident has renewed fears about militant violence and exposed the vulnerability of places of worship, reinforcing calls for stronger security and national unity.