Syria: 8 killed, 21 injured in explosion at Homs mosque
What's the story
At least eight people were killed and 21 others were injured in Syria as a powerful explosion rocked the Imam Ali bin Abi Talib mosque in Homs during the Friday noon prayers. The mosque is located in the Alawite-majority Wadi al-Dhahab area of Homs, the third-largest city of the country. A Syrian Health Ministry official, Najib al-Naasan, confirmed the casualties, but said that the numbers could rise, according to state news agency SANA.
Ongoing probe
Investigation underway into mosque bombing
Preliminary investigations have indicated that explosive devices were planted inside the mosque to carry out the attack, reported SANA, citing security sources. Also, the Interior Ministry said that the area has been cordoned off, and a search operation was also launched to nab those responsible. However, no group has claimed responsibility for the bombing yet.
Official response
Foreign Ministry condemns mosque attack
Following the tragedy, the Syrian Foreign Ministry has condemned the attack as a "cowardly assault on human and moral values." It also reaffirmed the government's commitment to fighting terrorism and protecting civilians. The ministry further extended condolences to the families of the victims and wished the injured a speedy recovery.
Sectarian unrest
Rising sectarian tensions in Syria
The attack comes amid rising sectarian tensions in Syria, which has reportedly seen several such violent episodes since then-President Bashar al-Assad fled the country last year. While insurgents, including Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, have targeted Alawite communities, there have also been clashes involving al-Assad's supporters and security forces. Reportedly, the Alawites have also been facing crackdowns under interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa's rule.