Earlier today, November 11, a suicide bomber struck outside the Judicial Complex in Islamabad during the court's break hours, killing at least 12 people and wounding 27.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi told local media the attacker, wearing an explosive-laden jacket, detonated near a police vehicle after security checks blocked his planned entry into the district courts. Rescue teams rushed victims to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, where officials warn the death toll could rise as several remain in critical condition.
Forensic experts have recovered body parts from the scene as they work to identify the bomber. Flames engulfed multiple vehicles and forced the evacuation of the court premises. A search operation is underway with support from local police and counterterrorism units.
Security sources suspect the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, operating from Afghanistan, in what analysts see as a strategic push to undermine judicial process and public safety. This comes amid ongoing efforts by the Pakistani authorities to tighten security in the capital, a key hub for business, diplomacy and travel.
Lawyer Malik Khalid Khan, inside the Judicial Complex at the time, described chaotic scenes as bystanders and court staff scrambled for cover. 'It was a sudden blast. People were running in all directions,' he said.
As Islamabad reels from today's attack, international observers note the ripple effects on regional stability and call for reinforced cross-border cooperation to counter evolving threats.
Reference(s):
At least 12 killed in suicide blast outside courts in Islamabad
cgtn.com
