Saudi Arabia condemns Pakistan mosque bombing that killed at least 16
RIYADH — Saudi Arabia strongly condemned a terrorist attack on a mosque in Pakistan’s northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province that killed at least 16 people and injured 57 others on Friday.The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed the Kingdom’s firm rejection of attacks on places of worship, the terrorizing of civilians and the shedding of innocent blood.Saudi Arabia expressed its solidarity with Pakistan in confronting all forms of violence, extremism and terrorism, regardless of their motives or justifications.The Kingdom extended its condolences to the families of the victims and to the Pakistani government and people, while wishing the injured a speedy recovery.The bombing struck a mosque near a police compound in Kohat district as worshippers gathered for Friday prayers.Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provincial police chief Zulfiqar Hameed said an attacker apparently rammed an explosives-laden vehicle into the mosque. He confirmed that it was a suicide attack.Gunmen subsequently attempted to enter the police compound and exchanged fire with officers, according to police.Hospital and rescue officials said police officers and civilians were among those who died, while most of the wounded were worshippers. Several of the injured were reported to be in critical condition.The explosion severely damaged the mosque and caused the outer wall of the police station to collapse.