Bomb blast at Alawite Mosque in Syria’s Homs kills 8 during Friday noon prayers; death toll may rise
PTC Web Desk: A powerful explosion hit a mosque in the Syrian city of Homs on Friday, killing at least eight persons and injuring 21 others, officials said. The blast took place during Friday noon prayers when many worshippers were inside the mosque. The explosion occurred at the Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib Mosque located in Wadi al-Dhahab, an Alawite-majority area of Homs, Syria’s third-largest city. The blast caused heavy damage to the prayer hall. Broken glass, debris, and damaged walls were seen across the site as rescue teams rushed to help the injured.
A senior Health Ministry official, Najib al-Naasan, said the death toll might rise as several injured people were in critical condition. The wounded were shifted to nearby hospitals, where doctors are providing emergency treatment.
According to early reports, explosive devices were planted inside the mosque. Security forces quickly cordoned off the area and launched an investigation to identify those behind the attack. Authorities said efforts are underway to track down the suspects.
Syria’s Foreign Ministry strongly condemned the attack, calling it an act of terrorism meant to create fear and instability. The government said it would strengthen security at religious and public places to prevent similar incidents.
Officials also expressed condolences to the families of those killed and wished a speedy recovery to the injured. The incident was described as a tragic moment for the nation.
The attack comes at a time when Syria is facing renewed unrest. Although major fighting has reduced, tensions linked to sectarian and political issues continue. Since President Bashar al-Assad fled to Russia last year, violence has flared in several regions, with Alawite communities frequently affected. Ongoing clashes have further weakened the country’s fragile security situation.
- With inputs from agencies
