Deadly Islamabad bombing sharpens focus on cross-border attacks in Pakistan

Islamabad, Pakistan – Funerals were held Saturday for more than 30 people killed in a suicide bombing at the Khadija Tul Kubra Mosque, a Shia place of worship in the Tarlai Kalan area of southeastern Islamabad. The attack, which occurred during Friday prayers, has raised concerns about escalating violence and sectarian tensions within the country.

Capital Under Fire?

The bombing marks the second major attack in Islamabad in recent months, following a suicide blast that targeted a district court in November of last year. Prior to these recent incidents, Islamabad had experienced a relative lull in violence. The Islamic State group’s Pakistan branch, referred to as ISPP, claimed responsibility for the mosque bombing, describing it as its deadliest operation in Pakistan since its formation in May 2019.

Did You Know? ISPP has carried out approximately 100 attacks since its formation, with over two-thirds of those attacks occurring in Balochistan.

Pakistan has seen a 34 percent increase in attacks nationwide over the past three years, with 699 attacks recorded in 2025 according to the Pak Institute of Peace Studies. Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif stated that security guards attempted to intercept the suspect, who then opened fire and detonated explosives. Authorities have made several arrests, including family members of the suicide bomber in Peshawar and Karachi, though their involvement in the plot remains unclear.

Sectarian Fault Lines

Analysts caution against directly comparing the mosque bombing to the previous attack on the district court, noting the sectarian nature of the latest incident. Shia Muslims comprise more than 20 percent of Pakistan’s population of approximately 250 million people, and the country has a history of sectarian violence, particularly in the Kurram district bordering Afghanistan.

Expert Insight: The attack on a Shia mosque underscores the potential for extremist groups to exploit existing sectarian divisions within Pakistan, potentially leading to further recruitment and a strengthening of their networks.

Regional tensions are also contributing to domestic anxieties. Armed groups backed by Iran remain alert amid “simmering geopolitical tensions.” Pakistan has repeatedly accused the Afghan Taliban of providing a haven for armed groups launching attacks within Pakistan, a claim the Taliban denies. Border clashes between Pakistan and Afghanistan occurred in October, leading to evacuations on both sides.

Frequently Asked Questions

What group claimed responsibility for the attack?

A splinter faction of ISIL (ISIS) in Pakistan claimed responsibility for the bombing on its Telegram channel.

How many people were injured in the attack?

169 people were transferred to hospitals after the bombing, according to the Islamabad administration.

Has Pakistan accused any external actors of involvement?

Pakistan has repeatedly accused the Afghan Taliban of providing a haven to armed groups that launch attacks inside Pakistan.

As investigations continue, it remains to be seen how Pakistan will respond to this attack and whether it will lead to further escalation of tensions in the region.

Deadly Islamabad bombing sharpens focus on cross-border attacks in Pakistan | Armed Groups News