FM Dar thanks outpouring of global support after Islamabad blast

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Saturday expressed gratitude to fellow deputy prime ministers, foreign ministers and world leaders, as well as the foreign offices of friendly countries, who reached out with condolences, prayers and messages of solidarity after Friday’s heinous bomb blast 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 worshippers 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 numerous allied nations condemning the incident while expressing support for Pakistan.

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

“Grateful to my fellow deputy prime ministers, foreign ministers and world leaders as well as foreign offices of friendly countries who reached out with condolences, prayers, and messages of solidarity following yesterday’s heinous bomb blast in Islamabad. The outpouring of support and solidarity during this difficult time is deeply appreciated.”

He further said that Pakistan stood resolute against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and remained committed to safeguarding its people, upholding peace and working with the international community to combat the shared global threat.

“Pakistan’s armed forces, law enforcement agencies, and police have long been at the forefront of confronting this menace, with civilian 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. The government of Pakistan is providing all necessary support and assistance to the affectees. Pakistan will continue to respond decisively to any threat against its peace and stability,” he said.

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

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

“Foreign Minister Bayramov conveyed condolences on behalf of the president, government and people of Azerbaijan, extending prayers for the victims of the Islamabad blast and expressing solidarity with Pakistan,” the Foreign Office (FO) said in a press release.

Both 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 conveyed condolences over the attack.

He was briefed by the ambassador on progress achieved through various bilateral institutional mechanisms to enhance cooperation across diverse areas.

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

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

“The two sides reviewed the entire gamut of Pakistan-Russia relations and reaffirmed their shared commitment to further strengthening bilateral ties.

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

United Nations issues strong denunciation

The United Nations also strongly condemned the terrorist attack.

“We condemn this terrorist attack and reiterate that all places of worship should be kept safe from such violence,” spokesperson Farhan Haq said in a statement on Friday.

Read: Four facilitators, Daesh mastermind held in Islamabad imambargah suicide attack

UN Secretary General António Guterres condemned “in the strongest terms” the deadly attack, calling the assault a grave 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 loss of life in the attack. He stressed that targeting places of worship — spaces meant for peace, reflection and community — could not be justified under any circumstances.

“The secretary general reiterates that attacks against civilians and places of worship are unacceptable,” the statement said. “He stresses that those responsible must be identified and brought to justice”.

Guterres extended his condolences to the families of those killed, offering solidarity and prayers for the swift recovery of the injured. He also reaffirmed UN support for Pakistan as it confronts the persistent threat of terrorism and violent extremism.

“He reaffirms the solidarity of the UN with the government and people of Pakistan in their efforts to combat terrorism and violent extremism,” the spokesperson added.

Read more: Funeral prayers held in Islamabad for victims of Tarlai imambargah terrorist attack

Tajikistan President Emomali Rahmon sent a telegram of condolences to President Zardari and PM Shehbaz over the attack.

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

Also read: Tarar vows crackdown after Tarlai imambargah blast, cites Afghan links

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

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