8 killed, over 20 injured in blast during prayers at mosque in Syria’s Homs

At least eight people were killed and more than 20 others injured in a powerful explosion that occurred during prayer time at a mosque in the central Syrian city of Homs on Friday. 8 killed, over 20 injured in blast during prayers at mosque in Syria’s Homs.

The blast took place inside the Imam Ali bin Abi Talib Mosque, located in the Wadi al-Dahab neighbourhood, a government-controlled area of the city.

According to Syria’s state-run Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA), the explosion occurred while worshippers were gathered inside the mosque for prayers, triggering panic and chaos in the area.

Emergency response teams were rushed to the spot immediately to evacuate the injured and secure the surroundings. Ambulances transported the wounded to nearby hospitals, where several are reported to be in critical condition.

Security forces cordoned off the mosque and the surrounding locality as investigators began examining the site to determine the nature and cause of the blast. Officials said the exact circumstances leading to the explosion are still unclear, and forensic teams are collecting evidence from the scene.

While no group has claimed responsibility so far, authorities have not ruled out the possibility of a suicide attack. Initial assessments suggest that the blast may have been caused by an explosive device detonated inside the mosque, though this has not been officially confirmed.

An investigation is underway to ascertain whether the explosion was the result of an intentional act or another cause. The Wadi al-Dahab area is considered relatively secure compared to other parts of the country, making the incident particularly alarming.

The blast has heightened security concerns in Homs, a city that has witnessed years of conflict during Syria’s prolonged civil war. Local residents expressed shock and grief over the incident, with many condemning the attack on a place of worship.

Authorities have urged people to remain calm and cooperate with security personnel as investigations continue. Further details are awaited as officials continue to assess the situation and verify the death toll.

Also Read: Pinarayi Vijayan slams Karnataka Congress government over ‘bulldozer action’ in Bengaluru