Deadly Blast At Pro-Taliban Seminary In Pakistan Kills Cleric, Raises Security Concerns Amid ICC Champions Trophy

As investigations into both attacks continue, concerns grow over the escalating violence in the region and its broader implications on security and stability.

By
Rajkaran Bureau
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pakistan

A powerful bomb blast at a pro-Taliban seminary in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Friday claimed the lives of prominent cleric Hamidul Haq and four others, leaving dozens injured. The attack took place at Darul Uloom Haqqania Madrasa, a well-known institution that has trained several Afghan Taliban leaders over the past two decades.

Hamidul Haq, who led a faction of the Jamiat-e-Ulema Islam (JUI) party, was the son of Maulana Samiul Haq, the influential cleric often referred to as the “Father of the Taliban.” Maulana Samiul Haq was assassinated in 2018 in a knife attack at his residence. Hamidul Haq’s family confirmed his death and urged supporters to maintain peace.

The explosion occurred just as worshippers gathered for Friday prayers in the seminary’s main hall. Rescue teams and security forces swiftly arrived, launching an investigation into the attack. Authorities have declared an emergency across hospitals in Peshawar, as the number of injured continues to rise.

Second Bombing in Quetta Escalates Security Worries
In a separate incident, a suicide blast targeted a security vehicle in Quetta, Balochistan, injuring at least eight security personnel on Jan Muhammad Road. The coordinated attacks come at a time when Pakistan is hosting the ICC Champions Trophy, raising serious security concerns.

India had already refused to play matches in Pakistan due to security risks, leading to their tournament games being shifted to Dubai. With eight teams participating, the latest bombings cast a shadow over Pakistan’s security preparedness during the international cricket event.