Pakistan “In a State of War” After Courthouse Explosion Kills 12 in Islamabad

Deadly blast shatters a decade‑long calm in the capital

Islamabad, 11 November 2025 – A massive explosion ripped through the Supreme Court Complex in Pakistan’s capital on Thursday, killing at least twelve people and injuring dozens more. The attack marks the first major assault on Islamabad in more than ten years, prompting Prime Minister Ali Khan to declare that the nation is “in a state of war.”

What happened

At approximately 14:30 local time, a concealed device detonated inside the main courtroom of the courthouse while a high‑profile hearing was under way. Witnesses described a blinding flash followed by a thunderous boom that shattered windows across the surrounding district. Emergency services rushed to the scene, evacuating the building and transporting the wounded to nearby hospitals.

Casualties and damage

The death toll, confirmed by the Ministry of Health, stands at twelve, including three senior judges, a lawyer, and several security personnel. Thirty‑seven others suffered injuries ranging from minor cuts to serious burns and shrapnel wounds. The blast also caused extensive structural damage to the court’s façade, nearby government offices, and several private businesses.

Official response

Prime Minister Ali Khan addressed the nation moments after the explosion, stating:

“We will not tolerate any attempt to undermine our sovereignty or threaten the safety of our citizens. Pakistan is now in a state of war, and every resource at our disposal will be mobilised to bring the perpetrators to justice.”

The interior ministry announced the deployment of additional security forces to Islamabad and other major cities, while the military launched a nationwide alert, heightening patrols at potential targets such as government buildings, airports, and religious sites.

Investigation and claims of responsibility

Authorities have launched a joint investigation involving the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), the Inter‑Services Intelligence (ISI), and local police. While no group has yet claimed responsibility, officials suspect a resurgence of extremist elements linked to the Tehrik‑e‑Taliban Pakistan (TTP) or a splinter faction of the Islamic State operating in the region.

Reactions from the international community

Several foreign ministries, including those of the United States, United Kingdom, and United Arab Emirates, condemned the attack and offered condolences to the families of the victims. The United Nations’ Office of Counter‑Terrorism urged Pakistan to intensify cooperation with global partners to prevent further acts of terror.

What comes next?

With the nation on high alert, security experts warn that more attacks could follow as extremist groups test the newly reinforced defenses. The government has pledged to accelerate counter‑terrorism operations, increase intelligence sharing, and bolster community outreach programs aimed at preventing radicalisation.

For now, Islamabad mourns its dead and grapples with a stark reminder that the peace it has enjoyed for a decade can be shattered in an instant.