At least 12 killed and 27 injured in a suicide bombing outside Islamabad’s district court.

A powerful suicide bomb blast struck outside the district and sessions court in Islamabad on Tuesday afternoon, killing at least 12 people and injuring 27 others, according to Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi. The explosion occurred at 12:39 p.m. local time, near the court’s security perimeter, leaving behind charred vehicles, shattered glass, and scenes of panic as people fled in terror.

What Happened
A suicide attacker attempted to enter the court premises but, failing to do so, detonated explosives near a police vehicle.

The blast was so powerful it was heard miles away, damaging several cars and creating chaos in the court compound.

Videos circulating on social media showed burning wreckage and plumes of smoke rising from the site.

Immediate Aftermath
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi visited the scene shortly after the attack, confirming the death toll and injuries. He said authorities are working to identify the bomber and trace his origins.

Security forces cordoned off the area, while rescue teams rushed victims to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) hospital.

Witnesses described panic and confusion, with civilians running into the court building for safety.

Broader Context
Islamabad has not experienced such a major suicide bombing in years, making this attack particularly alarming.

Officials have placed the capital on high alert, with paramilitary troops deployed to secure government offices and sensitive installations nearby.

No group has yet claimed responsibility, though Pakistan has faced a renewed wave of militant violence, including attacks linked to the resurgent Pakistani Taliban.

Political and Security Implications
A senior Islamabad police officer told local media that in such circumstances, “expecting successful negotiations with Kabul’s rulers is meaningless,” hinting at frustration over cross-border militancy. The attack underscores Pakistan’s ongoing struggle with extremist groups and the challenges of maintaining security even in the capital.

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned the bombing, vowing that those responsible will be brought to justice.