In a devastating turn of events, a shooting attack near a mosque in Muscat, Oman’s capital, has claimed the lives of four Pakistani citizens. The attack, which occurred on the eve of the Shia holy day of Ashura, also left 30 Pakistani nationals injured. The Pakistani foreign ministry has strongly condemned the “dastardly terrorist attack” on the Imam Ali Mosque.
Eyewitnesses describe the horror of the attack, which unfolded as worshippers gathered in the mosque’s courtyard. Gunshots rang out, and a stampede ensued as people fled for cover. The attackers, reportedly neutralized by Omani security forces, took several worshippers hostage, including women and children, before being released by armed police.
Pakistan’s ambassador to Oman, Imran Ali, visited the injured in local hospitals and described their conditions as “relatively safe.” He urged Pakistani residents to avoid the area and cooperate with authorities. The attack’s motive remains unknown, and investigations are ongoing.
Oman, known for its stability and security, has been shaken by this rare act of violence. The sultanate has pledged to uncover the circumstances surrounding the incident, and Pakistan has offered full support for the investigation. As the region mourns this tragedy, leaders are urging calm and unity in the face of adversity.
