The Pakistani Foreign Office has issued a strong condemnation of the terrorist attack on Imambargah Ali bin Abu Talib in Wadi al-Kabir, Muscat, Oman, which resulted in multiple casualties, including the deaths of four Pakistani nationals and injuries to many others.
According to Pakistan's Ambassador to Oman, Imran Ali, the attack occurred on Tuesday morning as worshippers gathered for religious observances. The assailants opened fire, resulting in the deaths of at least four individuals, including two Pakistanis, and injuring about 70 others. Ambassador Ali visited several hospitals to ensure the injured Pakistanis received proper medical care and to offer condolences to the families of the victims.
Later, the death toll of the Pakistani victims was raised to four by the Foreign Office.
A statement from the FO said Islamabad's embassy in Oman was in touch with local authorities for identification and repatriation of the remains of the Pakistani victims. "[The embassy] has also opened a helpline to respond to queries from the Pakistani community in Oman and to facilitate them. Ambassador Imran Ali is also visiting local hospitals to inquire about the well-being of injured Pakistani nationals," it added.
Also Read: 2 Pakistanis killed, dozens injured in Oman Imambargah firing
The statement further said that Pakistan was heartened that the Omani government had eliminated the attackers. "Pakistan has offered all possible assistance to Omani authorities in the investigation and in bringing to justice of those responsible for this heinous crime in this holy month of Muharram," it said further.
The Pakistani Embassy in Oman has established an Emergency Response Center and dispatched teams to coordinate relief efforts. Emergency protocols are in effect at Khaula Hospital, Nahda Hospital, and Royal Hospital to provide optimal medical attention to the injured. Blood donation camps have also been set up across various locations to meet the urgent need for blood supplies.
Separately, Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, the Foreign Office spokesperson, confirmed the deaths of two Pakistani nationals and claimed 30 people were injured in the attack.
"Our deepest condolences to the families of the victims. Amb Imran Ali has visited injured Pakistanis in hospitals. The Embassy is in contact with Omani authorities & Pak community," she posted on her personal account on X.
2 Pakistani nationals dead & 30 injured in last night's terrorist attack on an Imam Bargah in Oman. Our deepest condolences to the families of the victims. Amb Imran Ali has visited injured Pakistanis in hospitals. The Embassy is in contact with Omani authorities & Pak community https://t.co/bnYibxkcRs
— Mumtaz Baloch (@Mumtazzb) July 16, 2024
The Foreign Office also stated that the Pakistani Embassy remains in contact with Omani authorities for the identification and repatriation of the mortal remains of the two martyred Pakistanis. Ambassador Imran Ali has been actively visiting local hospitals to inquire about the well-being of injured Pakistani nationals and ensure they receive the best possible care.
This tragic incident highlights the need for continued vigilance and cooperation between nations to combat terrorism and ensure the safety and security of all citizens.
