A powerful bomb explosion at a pro-Taliban seminary in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province killed five people, including a prominent cleric, and injured at least 20 others on Friday, according to local police cited by the Associated Press.
The blast occurred inside Jamia Haqqania, a seminary known for training Afghan Taliban leaders. Among the deceased was Hamidul Haq, head of a faction of the Jamiat-e-Ulema Islam (JUI) party and son of Maulana Samiul Haq, often referred to as the “father of the Taliban.” Maulana Samiul Haq was assassinated in a knife attack at his home in 2018. Haq’s family confirmed his death in the bombing and urged followers to remain peaceful.
Authorities are investigating the attack, but no group has claimed responsibility so far. The seminary, located in the Nowshera district, had its own security, and more than a dozen police officers were stationed at the mosque when the explosion occurred.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack and directed authorities to ensure the best possible medical care for the wounded. The bombing took place just days before the beginning of Ramadan, expected to commence over the weekend based on moon sighting.
Pakistan has faced a surge in violent attacks in recent years. In 2023, a suicide bombing at a mosque in Peshawar killed 101 people, mostly police officers, highlighting the persistent security challenges in the country.