A deadly suic!de bombing struck Pakistan’s capital, Islamabad, on November 11, 2025, killing 12 people and injuring at least 27 others. The attack occurred outside the district and sessions court in the G-11 sector, a busy area frequented by legal professionals, police, and civilians. The explosion sent shockwaves through the city, marking one of the most violent incidents in recent years.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi confirmed the death toll and stated that the bomber had intended to target the courthouse directly but was unable to gain entry. After waiting near the entrance for 10 to 15 minutes, the attacker detonated explosives near a police vehicle parked outside the court complex. The blast destroyed multiple vehicles and shattered windows in nearby buildings.
Authorities quickly cordoned off the area, and emergency responders rushed the injured to nearby hospitals. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos, with people fleeing in panic and smoke billowing from the site. Security forces launched a sweep of the area to ensure no secondary threats remained, while forensic teams began collecting evidence.
Responsibility for the attack was claimed by Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, a faction of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The group stated that the bombing targeted officials enforcing “un-Islamic laws” and warned of future attacks until Islamic law is implemented nationwide. However, confusion followed the claim when a commander from the same group later denied involvement via WhatsApp.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack and alleged that extremist groups “actively backed by India” were responsible. He also accused Afghanistan of providing safe haven to TTP operatives, calling them “Indian-sponsored terrorist proxies.” These statements intensified regional tensions and drew swift responses from neighboring governments.
A spokesperson for the Indian government rejected Sharif’s claims, describing them as “baseless and unfounded.” India emphasized its commitment to regional peace and condemned terrorism in all forms. The diplomatic exchange added a layer of geopolitical complexity to an already volatile situation.
Security analysts noted that Islamabad had been on high alert due to recent threats from militant groups. The failure to prevent the bomber from approaching the courthouse raised questions about the effectiveness of current security protocols. Calls for enhanced surveillance and stricter perimeter controls have grown louder in the aftermath.
The attack also reignited public debate over Pakistan’s counterterrorism strategy. Critics argue that militant networks continue to operate with impunity, while others stress the need for regional cooperation to dismantle cross-border terror infrastructure. Civil society groups have called for transparent investigations and accountability.
In the days following the bombing, vigils were held across Islamabad to honor the victims. Families of the deceased demanded justice and support from the government. The tragedy has left a deep scar on the city and renewed fears of further violence in urban centers.
As investigations continue, authorities have pledged to identify the bomber and bring all those involved to justice. Mohsin Naqvi reiterated the government’s commitment to combating terrorism and ensuring public safety. The incident serves as a grim reminder of the persistent threat posed by extremist groups in the region.
