Putin Condemns Islamabad Mosque Attack, Offers Counterterrorism Support to Pakistan
ISTANBUL —
Russian President Vladimir Putin condemned the deadly suicide bombing at a mosque in Islamabad, describing the attack as “barbaric” and expressing solidarity with the people of Pakistan. He sent a condolence message to Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Russia Extends Condolences and Support
Putin called the killing of worshippers during a religious ceremony “further evidence of the barbaric, inhumane nature of terrorism.” He offered his “sincere sympathy and support” to the families of the victims and wished a speedy recovery for the injured.
The Russian leader also indicated that Moscow is ready to “further expand cooperation with Pakistani partners in the anti-terrorist area,” signaling a willingness to strengthen security collaboration between the two countries.
Details of the Attack
Pakistani authorities reported that at least 31 people were killed and 169 others injured when a suicide bomber detonated explosives at Imambargah Khadijah-tul-Kubra, a Shia Muslim place of worship in the Shehzad Town area of Islamabad. Security forces confronted the attacker before the explosion occurred.
Regional Reactions
India’s External Affairs Ministry condemned the bombing as “condemnable” and expressed condolences for the victims. Islamabad had earlier accused India of involvement, with Prime Minister Sharif’s spokesman, Mosharraf Zaidi, alleging the attack was orchestrated by New Delhi.
India rejected the allegations as “baseless” and “pointless,” cautioning that Pakistan should not “delude itself by blaming others.
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