Imambargah suicide attacker was trained from Afghanistan: Talal Chaudhry

Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry has confirmed that the blast at the imambargah was a suicide attack, adding that authorities have obtained key information about the attacker, including details of his multiple trips to Afghanistan.

Speaking to the media, Talal Chaudhry said the perpetrators were sponsored by Pakistan’s neighbours.

He stated that the incident was reported to the Islamabad administration at 1:42 pm, and that information collected so far confirms 31 fatalities and more than 100 injured.

He said an emergency has been imposed in Islamabad’s hospitals and that, on the instructions of the Prime Minister and the Interior Minister, he remained present at PIMS Hospital.

The minister said the identity of the suicide bomber has been established. “He is not an Afghan national, but we now have complete details of how many times he travelled to Afghanistan,” he added.

Talal Chaudhry claimed the attack was carried out by the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), describing it as an act of extreme cowardice. “These terrorists target soft locations,” he said.

He also revealed that among the 31 martyrs was a cousin of the Islamabad Inspector General of Police.

The minister said implementation of the National Action Plan is ongoing and that there is no ambiguity or relaxation in counter-terrorism efforts. He added that the Interior Minister has visited the imambargah and obtained a full briefing.

“We are fighting this war to win it, and we are winning it,” he said. “How can people who were offering prayers be martyred in the name of religion?”

Talal Chaudhry reiterated allegations that the attackers were India-sponsored, claiming India has tripled its funding for terrorism. “These people are carrying out attacks for dollars,” he said.

He added that Pakistan has repeatedly raised concerns with Afghanistan, saying, “You are our neighbour, and we have extended many favours to you.”

The minister said that despite losing a close relative, the Islamabad IG remained on duty in uniform, while the Interior Minister also offered prayers at the imambargah.

Regarding the investigation, Talal Chaudhry said authorities are closing in on the facilitators and that the case may be concluded within 72 hours.

He further stated that no Afghan national will be allowed to remain in Pakistan illegally.