FM Dar thanks outpouring of global support after Islamabad blast

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Saturday expressed gratitude to his fellow Deputy Prime Ministers, Foreign Ministers and world leaders, as well as foreign ministries of friendly countries, who extended their condolences, prayers and messages of solidarity following Friday’s heinous bomb attack in Islamabad.

At least 32 people were killed and around 169 others injured when a suicide bomber struck Imambargah Khadijah al-Kubra during Friday prayers, according to authorities and hospital officials. The blast occurred as worshipers gathered for Jumma prayers and was accompanied by explosions and gunfire.

The attack was the deadliest in Islamabad in more than a decade and the deadliest nationwide since the Peshawar mosque bombing in January 2023.

The attack saw many allied countries condemn the incident while expressing support for Pakistan.

FM Dar thanked the outpouring of solidarity in a post on X today.

“I am grateful to my fellow Deputy Prime Ministers, Foreign Ministers and world leaders as well as the Foreign Ministries of friendly countries who have extended their condolences, prayers and messages of solidarity following yesterday’s heinous bombing in Islamabad. The outpouring of support and solidarity during this difficult time is deeply appreciated.”

He further said that Pakistan was committed to combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and remained committed to protecting its people, maintaining peace and working with the international community to combat the shared global threat.

“Pakistan’s armed forces, law enforcement and police have long been at the forefront of confronting this threat, with civil administration and first responders continuing to play a critical role in managing the painful aftermath. Our thoughts and prayers are with the martyrs, the injured and their families.

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also expressed their appreciation and gratitude for the messages.

FM Dar also received a phone call from Azerbaijani FM Jeyhun Bayramov.

“Foreign Minister Bayramov offered condolences on behalf of the President, government and people of Azerbaijan, praying for the victims of the Islamabad blast and expressing solidarity with Pakistan,” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (FO) said in a press release.

The two leaders also discussed current regional and international developments of mutual interest and reaffirmed the enduring partnership between Pakistan and Azerbaijan.

FM Dar also met Iranian Ambassador Raza Amiri Moghaddam who offered condolences over the attack.

He was briefed by the Ambassador on the progress made through various bilateral institutional mechanisms aimed at strengthening cooperation in various areas.

FM Dar reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to further strengthen its engagement with Iran in key priority sectors of mutual interest.

He also had a similar meeting with Russian Ambassador Albert P. Khorev.

“Both sides reviewed the entire spectrum of Pakistan-Russia relations and reaffirmed their shared commitment to further strengthen bilateral relations.

“The ambassador expressed condolences over the precious loss of lives caused by the terrorist attack on a mosque during Friday prayers in Islamabad,” FO said.

The UN issues a strong denunciation

The United Nations also strongly condemned the terrorist attack.

“We condemn this terrorist attack and reiterate that all places of worship must be protected from such violence,” spokesman Farhan Haq said in a statement Friday.

Read: Four facilitators, masterminds of Daesh, detained during Imambargah suicide attack in Islamabad

UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned “in the strongest possible terms” the deadly attack, calling it a serious violation of human rights and an unacceptable act of violence against civilians.

In a statement issued by his spokesperson, the Secretary General said he was deeply saddened by the human losses in the attack. He stressed that targeting places of worship – spaces intended for peace, reflection and community – could in no way be justified.

“The Secretary-General reiterates that attacks on civilians and places of worship are unacceptable,” the statement said. “He emphasizes that those responsible must be identified and brought to justice.”

Guterres offered his condolences to the families of those killed, offering solidarity and prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured. He also reaffirmed the UN’s support for Pakistan as it faces the persistent threat of terrorism and violent extremism.

“It reaffirms the solidarity of the United Nations with the Government and people of Pakistan in their efforts to combat terrorism and violent extremism,” the spokesperson added.

Learn more: Funeral prayers held in Islamabad for victims of Tarlai Imambargah terror attack

The President of Tajikistan, Emomali Rahmon, sent a telegram of condolences to President Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz over the attack.

“I ask Almighty God for mercy and forgiveness for the deceased, and I wish all the injured a full recovery. Tajikistan, while strongly condemning this cruel terrorist act and, as always, all manifestations of terrorism, constantly emphasizes the need for a fierce fight against this scourge,” said a message on the official Facebook page of the Tajik president.

Also read: Tarar vows to quell Tarlai Imambargah blast, cites Afghanistan links

President Zardari reciprocated President Rahmon’s message of condolences and solidarity, saying Pakistan appreciated Tajikistan’s clear stance against terrorism.

“We stand united in rejecting this evil and honoring the innocent lives lost in this tragic attack.”