At least eight people were killed and 18 others injured on Friday after a explosion struck the Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib Mosque in the Wadi al-Dahab neighborhood of Homs, central Syria, according to preliminary reports.

Why it matters:

The attack indicates ongoing security challenges in Syria’s urban centers and highlights the persistent threat posed by terrorist cells targeting civilian and religious sites.

 

State of play:

The explosion occurred inside the mosque in the Wadi al-Dahab district.

Emergency and security units were swiftly dispatched to the scene.

Authorities imposed a security cordon and launched an immediate investigation.

 

On the ground:

Syrian Health Ministry officials said eight people were killed and 18 others wounded in the blast, noting that the figures are preliminary.

The Interior Ministry confirmed that internal security forces secured the area and began evidence collection to identify those behind what it described as a “criminal act.”

A security source told SANA that initial findings suggest explosive devices had been planted inside the mosque.

 

Key points:

  • The explosion caused significant damage inside the mosque.
  • Investigations are ongoing to determine the perpetrators and motive.

 

The big picture:

Despite relative stability in parts of central Syria, sporadic terrorist attacks continue to target populated and symbolic locations, aiming to undermine security and sow fear among civilians.

 

Go deeper: 

Syrian Interim FM: Main Fears Are ISIS And Israel

 

Hossein Vaez - seyed mohammad kazemi