Homs, Syria – Residents of Homs were shocked today, Friday, by a bloody terrorist attack targeting worshippers inside the Imam Ali bin Abi Talib Mosque in the Wadi al-Dahab neighborhood. The attack resulted in casualties and injuries, with the initial toll expected to rise.
Details of the massacre
Our correspondents and local sources inside the city reported that the explosion occurred during Friday prayers. This happened at a time when the mosque was packed with worshippers from the (predominantly Alawite) neighborhood.
According to field reports, the most likely scenario is that a suicide bomber detonated an explosive belt he was wearing inside the prayer hall. However, other sources have mentioned the possibility of pre-planted explosive devices.
Initial toll and medical situation:
Medical sources in Homs confirmed that six people were killed in the initial attack. Approximately 20 others sustained injuries of varying severity, some of them critical.
Ambulances rushed to the scene amidst widespread public panic. The injured were transported to city hospitals, and appeals were made to residents to donate blood of all types.
An atmosphere of tension and anticipation
This bombing comes amid a highly sensitive security and political situation in Syria. Observers believe that targeting places of worship in the Wadi al-Dahab neighborhood has sectarian dimensions. The bombing aims to undermine civil peace and destabilize the city.
Activists on social media shared videos showing the immediate aftermath of the explosion. Plumes of smoke rose from the mosque amidst extensive damage to the prayer hall and surrounding buildings. Residents who rushed to the scene to check on their loved ones were heard screaming.
