**A suicide bombing in northern Pakistan's Islamic seminar results in multiple fatalities, including a prominent cleric, raising security concerns ahead of Ramadan.**
**Tragic Suicide Attack Claims Six Lives at Islamic Seminary in Pakistan**
**Tragic Suicide Attack Claims Six Lives at Islamic Seminary in Pakistan**
**Blast at 'University of Jihad' shocks the community as investigation begins**
At least six individuals tragically lost their lives in a suicide bombing at the Darul Uloom Haqqania, a notable Islamic seminary recognized as the "University of Jihad," located in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, approximately 55 kilometers (34 miles) from Peshawar. The devastating explosion occurred at the mosque during Friday prayers, injuring over ten others, according to local police.
Among the deceased was Maulana Hamid ul-Haq, the influential head of the seminary and son of the well-known cleric Maulana Sami ul-Haq, often referred to as the "Father of the Taliban." His family has deep ties to the Afghan Taliban, which has drawn significant attention to the institution, known for training several militia-associated figures, including former Taliban leaders.
Witnesses reported that hundreds were in attendance at the time of the blast, prompting fears of higher casualties. Khuzaima Sami, Haq's son, noted the significant crowd present during the tragedy. Local authorities indicated that an investigation into the attack is underway, though no group has yet claimed responsibility.
The seminary has a storied history, being connected to the Taliban and hosting numerous high-profile militants among its graduation class. The legacy of Maulana Sami ul-Haq and his son in mediating negotiations between the Taliban and Pakistani authorities has raised questions about the implications of this attack on regional stability.
In response to the violence, both President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif condemned the act, as did the Pakistani Taliban, who recognized Haq's contributions as an educator and advocate for madrassa stability. The attack has heightened security concerns in the region as the holy month of Ramadan approaches, leaving both local residents and authorities in a state of distress and fear.
