'State of War': Pakistan Defense Minister Blames Afghan Taliban, Warns India After Islamabad Blast

Islamabad: Pakistan Defense Minister Khawaja Asif on Tuesday declared the country a 'state of war.' Described the deadly suicide bombing at Islamabad's District Court as a 'sign of awakening.' The TTP claimed responsibility for the attack, while Pakistan accused the Afghan Taliban of harboring TTP fighters, a charge denied by Kabul. Asif threatened cross-border strikes in Afghanistan and warned India to 'retaliate in the same coin'. 

Suicide blast at Islamabad court—how did it create panic?

At 12:30 pm, when there was a crowd of lawyers and visitors near the gate of the District Court, an explosion occurred in a parked car. According to Pakistani media, 12 people were killed and more than 25 were injured, most of them lawyers. The sound of the explosion was heard 6 kilometers away, and nearby vehicles were burnt. Police confirmed the suicide attack. The head part found nearby belonged to the attacker. This is the first major civilian attack on Islamabad in a decade.

TTP's claim—targeting those implementing 'un-Islamic law'

TTP said that the attack was on judges, lawyers, and officers who were imposing 'un-Islamic laws.' The group warned that attacks would continue until Islamic rule. Militant violence increased in Pakistan in the last months. Link to Afghan border, as Pak officials say. A suicide attack also took place near the Cadet College in South Waziristan. Tension is at its peak due to both the attacks.

Is it a sign of cross-border strikes?

Asif wrote in a post on Said that in a Geo News interview, the Afghan Taliban is providing shelter, and attacks continue. Condemnation of Kabul was not considered 'proof of truth.' Pakistan will never attack first but will respond to aggression in the same coin. Strikes are not 'ruled out' in Afghanistan.

'Proxy' allegations on India—strong condemnation from MOEA

Asif also blamed India's 'proxies.' New Delhi's Foreign Ministry called it 'false and baseless.' This allegation of Pakistan is old—it dragged India into blasts earlier also. But focus on Afghanistan: Kabul denies, says "our territory is not used for attacks." Militant attacks have increased in Pakistan. Asif's announcement will further increase the tension. Does cross-border action mean war? Regional peace at stake.