Homs, Syria – A devastating explosion ripped through a mosque in the city of Homs, central Syria, early Friday, leaving a trail of death and injuries. The incident occurred in the Wadi al-Dahab neighborhood, sending shockwaves through the local community.
Initial reports from the Syrian Ministry of Health indicate at least eight people have been killed and eighteen wounded. Dr. Najib Al-Naasan, Director of the Referral, Ambulance, and Emergency Department, stated that these figures are preliminary and subject to change as rescue and investigative efforts continue.
The state news agency, SANA, identified the affected place of worship as the Imam Ali bin Abi Talib Mosque. Authorities are currently investigating the nature and cause of the blast. Conflicting reports suggest the possibility of either a suicide attack or the detonation of pre-planted explosive devices.
Security sources have indicated that initial findings point towards the likelihood of explosive devices having been planted within the mosque. Specialized teams are currently gathering forensic evidence at the scene to confirm this hypothesis.
Following the explosion, internal security forces immediately established a tight security cordon around the area. Civil defense teams are actively engaged in providing medical assistance to the injured, recovering the deceased, and clearing debris from the mosque and its surroundings. Residents reported widespread panic following the loud explosion, with many remaining indoors out of fear.
SANA released images depicting significant damage to the mosque, including a breach in one of the walls, smoke damage, and scattered carpets and religious books, highlighting the force of the explosion. Homs has experienced intermittent security incidents in the past, particularly in sensitive neighborhoods, leading to public calls for enhanced security measures to protect civilians.
