Driving the news:
The coordinated attack struck the FC headquarters during morning parade preparations, prompting a swift response from security personnel that authorities say prevented a far larger loss of life.
Why it matters:
The incident highlights Pakistan’s mounting security challenges amid a renewed surge in militant activity by the Tehrik‑e‑Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which Islamabad accuses of operating from safe havens across the Afghan border.
What he is saying:
Peshawar Capital City Police Officer Mian Saeed Ahmad said, "Initially, three militants tried to attack the headquarters. One bomber blew himself up on the gate, while two others tried to enter the premises but were gunned down by FC personnel."
He also told the fallen FC officers had been stationed at the gate and were killed in the explosion there.
Peshawar Police Chief Saeed Ahmad added, "The terrorists involved in today’s attack were on foot and failed to reach the parade area, and a timely response by our forces prevented a much larger tragedy."
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack: "The perpetrators of this incident should be identified as soon as possible and brought to justice. We will thwart the evil designs of terrorists who attack Pakistan’s integrity."
President Asif Ali Zardari said on X that he strongly condemned the assault and offered heartfelt condolences, praising the courage of security forces.
Key points:
- Three suicide bombers struck the FC headquarters in central Peshawar.
- One attacker detonated at the main gate; two others were shot dead before entering.
- Three FC personnel stationed at the gate were killed.
- Several others were injured; hospitals have declared emergencies.
- Pakistan has accused the TTP of orchestrating similar attacks.
Catch up quickly:
Peshawar, capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, has been the epicenter of many TTP-linked operations. The militant group, while ideologically aligned with the Afghan Taliban, operates separately but maintains ties that Islamabad views as enabling cross-border attacks.
The big picture:
Pakistan’s security environment has deteriorated sharply since 2021, following the Afghan Taliban’s takeover. Officials say militant infiltration and cross-border movements have surged, straining ties with Kabul and prompting calls for stricter security measures.
Between the lines:
The attack comes less than two weeks after a suicide bomber killed 12 people outside a court in Islamabad.
Go deeper:
Deadly Blast Hits Factory in Pakistan, Casualties Reported
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