A suicide attack at a mosque within a police compound in Kohat, northwestern Pakistan, has left at least 21 people dead and approximately 80 others injured, according to local authorities. The incident, which occurred during Friday prayers, saw a suicide bomber drive a vehicle loaded with explosives into the compound’s outer wall, followed by gunfire and a confrontation with security forces.
The Saudi Arabian government has strongly condemned the attack, with the Saudi Foreign Ministry expressing solidarity with Pakistan. The Ministry reaffirmed the Kingdom’s stance against targeting places of worship and civilians, offering condolences to the bereaved families and wishing a swift recovery for the injured.
Among the deceased were at least five police officers, highlighting the severity of the attack on the law enforcement community. As of now, no group has claimed responsibility for the assault, though the Pakistani Taliban has publicly denied any involvement.
The attack took place in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, a region that has seen its share of violence in recent years. Saudi Arabia’s message of support emphasizes the broader international concern regarding security and peace in the region.