Bomb Blast at Rally in Pakistan’s Quetta Kills 15

A suicide bombing struck a political rally in Quetta, the capital of southwestern Pakistan’s Balochistan province, leaving 15 people dead and dozens wounded as attendees were dispersing after the event. The explosion occurred around 9:45 p.m. near Shahwani Stadium, in the parking area roughly 500 meters from the rally exit.

Organized by the Balochistan National PartyMengal (BNPM) to mark the anniversary of its founder, Sardar Ataullah Mengal, the gathering had concluded when the attacker triggered approximately eight kilograms of explosives. Officials recovering the remains of the bomber noted he appeared to be under 30 years old.

Strict security measures reportedly prevented the bomber from reaching the main crowd, potentially reducing the number of casualties. BNPM leader Sardar Akhtar Mengal and other senior figures were not harmed.

The Islamic State group later claimed responsibility through its propaganda channels, releasing an image showing the attacker with his face obscured.

Authorities have launched a high-level investigation. Section 144, banning public gatherings, has been imposed across Balochistan, and the party has been criticized for proceeding with the rally despite repeated threat alerts and conditions to conclude by earlier hours. The provincial government has announced compensation of Rs 1.5 million for families of the deceased and Rs 500,000 for those injured.

BNPM, along with allied political parties, declared a “black day” in Balochistan and pledged to continue their political efforts despite the attack.

Sources: BBC News, UCA News, The Express Tribune, Associated Press