Daesh has claimed responsibility for an attack on a mosque in Oman that resulted in the deaths of at least nine individuals, including three attackers, on Tuesday. Pakistani, Indian, and Omani officials reported that among the deceased were four Pakistanis, an Indian, and a police officer. The Oman police further stated that 28 people from various nationalities were injured, including security personnel. The incident commenced on Monday evening at the Imam Ali mosque in the Wadi al-Kabir neighborhood of Muscat, according to authorities. In a statement released late Tuesday, Daesh asserted that three of its "suicide attackers" targeted worshippers at the mosque and engaged in a gunfight with Omani security forces until the following morning. Additionally, the group shared a video purporting to show the attack on its Telegram channel. A video circulating on social media captured the sound of gunfire as people sought refuge. The police have confirmed that investigations into the incident are underway and have implemented all necessary security measures following the attack. The Pakistani foreign ministry reported that 30 survivors are receiving treatment in hospitals, characterizing the event as a "terrorist" attack, although Omani officials have not officially labeled it as such. Pakistan's ambassador to Muscat, Imran Ali, described the event as unprecedented in Oman's history, noting that most of the 30 victims are being treated for gunshot wounds, with others injured while fleeing, including those injured in a stampede. In response to the attack, the US embassy in Oman issued a security alert for American citizens, advising them to stay vigilant, follow local news, and comply with the instructions of local authorities.
Text: Lara Palmer
17.07.2024
At least nine killed, including three attackers, in assault on Imam Ali mosque in Muscat