Islamabad: A suicide attack targeting a religious site in Islamabad killed at least 31 people and wounded many others during Friday prayers. The incident occurred at Imambargah Khadijah-tul-Kubra, a Shia Muslim worship place in the Shehzad Town area.

According to Anadolu Agency, Defense Minister Khawaja Asif reported on social media platform X that security guards confronted the attacker, who then opened fire and detonated explosives among the congregation. Asif suggested possible involvement of India and Afghanistan in the attack.

A statement from Islamabad's district administration on X confirmed the death toll at 31. Additionally, an earlier statement indicated that 169 people were injured and receiving treatment in nearby hospitals. Authorities declared an emergency at these medical facilities, and the explosion site was sealed off.

Images and video footage from the scene depicted chaos, with many victims lying amidst glass shards and debris. Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar labeled the incident a "cowardly suicide attack" and promised action against the perpetrators.

The attack drew condemnation from various officials, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, President Asif Zardari, and foreign missions. Mosharraf Zaidi, spokesperson for foreign media for Prime Minister Sharif, accused India of orchestrating the attack. He asserted that these acts would not hinder Pakistan's progress or unity.

The Afghan Foreign Ministry also condemned the violence. Ministry spokesperson Abdul Qahar Balkhi stated that the Islamic Emirate opposes attacks that infringe on the sanctity of religious sites. As of this report, no group has claimed responsibility, and there has been no official response from New Delhi.