Mosque bombing in Homs kills 8, injures 18

State-run Arab News Agency images showed blood-stained carpets, shattered windows, holes in the walls, and fire damage inside the mosque, which is located in the Wadi al-Dhahab neighborhood, predominantly inhabited by the Alawite minority. Preliminary investigations suggest that explosive devices had been planted inside the mosque, according to a security source cited by SANA. Syrian Interior Ministry officials said security forces established a cordon around the site and are searching for the attackers.

Local officials condemned the attack, describing it as “a desperate attempt to undermine security and sow chaos among the Syrian people.” The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed Syria’s commitment to combating terrorism in all forms. Syrian Information Minister added that remnants of the former regime, ISIS militants, and collaborators seek to destabilize the country and threaten civil peace.

Neighboring states, including Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Lebanon, also condemned the bombing. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun reiterated Lebanon’s support for Syria’s fight against terrorism.

The attack comes amid continuing sectarian, ethnic, and political tensions across Syria. Recent clashes between government forces and Kurdish-led fighters in northern Aleppo have prompted temporary school closures and forced civilians to shelter indoors, though a ceasefire was announced later on Monday, reports UNB.