Islamabad Court Blast Kills 12, Injures 27 Amid Tight Security

At least 12 people died and 27 suffered injuries in the Islamabad court blast on Tuesday. The explosion hit the district and sessions court in Islamabad’s G-11 area. The attack happened while major international events were taking place in the capital, including the Inter-Parliamentary Speakers’ Conference and the Margalla Dialogue. A cricket match between Pakistan and Sri Lanka was also underway in Rawalpindi, adding to the city’s heightened activity.

Government Response and Investigation

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi confirmed it was a suicide attack that occurred at 12:39 pm. He said medical teams treated the wounded while Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directly contacted hospitals to ensure care. The attacker stood near the court for around 12 minutes before detonating himself. He first tried to enter the court building but targeted a police vehicle when he failed.
Naqvi promised that investigators would soon identify the attacker. “We are looking at every angle,” he said. “This is not just another incident; it happened in the heart of Islamabad.” He added that the Army, Rangers, and police had strengthened security around all ongoing international events. Officials assured citizens that those responsible would face justice.

Witness Accounts and National Reaction

Eyewitnesses described panic at the scene. Lawyer Rustam Malik said he heard a loud explosion as he entered the complex. “People were running everywhere. I saw two dead bodies near the gate and several cars on fire,” he said.
President Asif Ali Zardari expressed sorrow for the victims and praised law enforcement agencies. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif called the blast a “wake-up call” and urged tighter security on all roads and entry points. Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar condemned the attack, calling terrorists “enemies of humanity.” Security for forces nationwide remains on high alert.