Pakistan on Edge After Deadly Blast Near Religious Site in Islamabad

At least ten people were killed and several others injured after a powerful explosion rocked an area near an imambargah in Islamabad’s Tarlai locality on Friday, triggering panic and renewed fears over security in Pakistan’s capital.

According to local media reports, the blast occurred close to a religious site, with victims rushed to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) for emergency treatment. Authorities are yet to release detailed information on the cause of the explosion.

The incident comes just days after a series of deadly attacks in Balochistan, where violence linked to insurgent groups claimed the lives of dozens of civilians and security personnel. Those attacks had already heightened concerns over Pakistan’s internal security situation.

BLA Claims Ongoing Operation

Following the recent violence, the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) has reiterated that its operation, titled “Operation Herof II,” remains active for the sixth consecutive day.

In a statement issued by its spokesperson, Jeeyand Baloch, the group rejected claims by Pakistan’s military that the operation had ended. The BLA described official statements as misleading and disconnected from ground realities.

The BLA alleged that the military’s media wing, ISPR, has repeatedly announced the elimination of attackers, only to revise its claims later. The group also accused authorities of concealing security force casualties, while asserting that it openly acknowledges its own losses.

Pakistan’s security agencies have not yet responded in detail to these allegations.

With the Islamabad blast adding to a series of recent attacks, analysts say Pakistan faces mounting pressure to strengthen intelligence, secure sensitive locations, and reassure citizens amid rising militant activity.

As investigations continue, the incident underscores the fragile security environment and the persistent threat posed by extremist and insurgent groups.

(With inputs from ANI)