US embassy in Pakistan issues security alert after Islamabad mosque blast

The United States Embassy in Pakistan on Friday issued a security alert to American nationals following the devastating suicide blast in Islamabad that killed at least 31 people. The tragic incident took place at a Shia mosque in the Tarlai Kalan area on the outskirts of Islamabad.

In the alert, the embassy urged the American nationals travelling or residing in Pakistan to exercise heightened caution and avoid areas with large public gatherings. It also advised Americans to review personal security plans, keep a low profile, and closely monitor local media for updates on the situation.

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The embassy also urged citizens to carry valid identification at all times and to cooperate with local law enforcement authorities as required. "Following reports of a suicide bombing at a mosque in the Tarlai Kalan area on the outskirts of Islamabad, the United States Embassy reminds you to take the following precautions when travelling in Pakistan," the alert read.

US embassy remains alert

In the advisory, the embassy also provided contact details for American citizens in need of assistance. The statement was also shared by Charge d'Affaires Natalie A. Baker of the US embassy in Pakistan in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.

"The United States strongly condemns today's terrorist attack in Islamabad that left innocent worshippers dead and injured. We condemn all acts of terror and violence, including this attack," the statement read.

"On behalf of the United States, I offer our sincere condolences to those injured and to the families and loved ones of those killed by this attack. Acts of terror and violence against civilians and places of worship are unacceptable. The people of Pakistan deserve safety, dignity, and the ability to practice their faith without fear," it added.

The blast killed at least 31 people and injured 169 others. According to Pakistani news outlet Dawn, the explosion occurred at the Imambargah Khadijah-tul-Kubra in the Tarlai area on Friday. Minister of State for Interior, Tallal Chaudhry, told the media in Islamabad that while the attacker was not an Afghan, authorities had been able to determine through forensic tests the number of times he had travelled to Afghanistan. The Islamic State (IS) eventually claimed responsibility for the attack.

With inputs from agencies.