A powerful explosion tore through a mosque in the Syrian city of Homs on Friday, killing at least eight people and injuring many others as worshippers gathered for weekly prayers. Authorities described the incident as a deliberate act of terrorism, raising renewed concerns over security and sectarian violence in the country.
The blast occurred inside a mosque located in the Wadi al-Dhahab district, a residential area known for its religious diversity. According to Syria’s Health Ministry, at least 18 people were wounded, several of them critically and 8 were dead. Emergency medical teams rushed the injured to nearby hospitals as security forces sealed off the area to prevent further threats.
Officials from the Interior Ministry stated that preliminary findings suggest an explosive device was planted inside the mosque and detonated during the prayer service, when the building was filled with worshippers. Investigators are examining remnants from the scene to determine the type of explosive used and how it was smuggled into the building.
State media footage broadcast later in the day showed extensive damage inside the mosque. Sections of the interior were charred, windows shattered, and debris scattered across the prayer hall. Bloodstains were visible on the floor as first responders and volunteers worked to evacuate survivors and recover the bodies of those killed.
Eyewitnesses described moments of panic and confusion following the explosion. One survivor told local media that the blast occurred suddenly during prayer, throwing people to the ground and filling the mosque with smoke and dust. Many worshippers attempted to help the injured while others fled the scene in fear of a second explosion.
Shortly after the attack, an extremist group calling itself Saraya Ansar al-Sunnah claimed responsibility through online channels. The group alleged that it carried out the bombing by planting explosives inside the mosque. Syrian authorities have not officially confirmed the authenticity of the claim, and analysts note that little is known about the group’s structure or leadership.
Security experts have suggested that the group may be linked to or inspired by larger extremist networks operating in the region, citing similarities in tactics and messaging. However, no definitive evidence has been presented to establish a direct connection to any known organization.
The attack comes at a sensitive time for Syria, which continues to face instability following major political changes over the past year. Although the current government has pledged to promote unity and rebuild the country after years of conflict, sporadic violence and militant activity remain serious challenges.
In an official statement, Syria’s Foreign Ministry strongly condemned the bombing, calling it a “criminal act aimed at spreading fear and undermining social stability.” The ministry expressed condolences to the families of the victims and vowed that those responsible would be brought to justice.
The Information Ministry also issued a statement accusing extremist elements and hostile actors of attempting to destabilize the country by targeting civilians and places of worship. Authorities emphasized that attacks on religious sites are intended to inflame sectarian tensions and disrupt efforts toward national reconciliation.
International reactions were swift. Several regional governments, including those of Jordan, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, issued statements condemning the attack and expressing solidarity with the Syrian people. European officials also denounced the bombing, warning that violence against civilians threatens fragile peace efforts in the region.
Canada’s diplomatic representatives to Syria and Lebanon expressed condolences to the victims’ families and reaffirmed their opposition to extremism in all forms. France similarly condemned the attack, describing it as an attempt to derail stability and instill fear among civilians.
Local community leaders in Homs called for calm and unity following the incident. Religious figures urged citizens not to allow violence to deepen divisions, emphasizing the need for solidarity across sectarian lines.
Security has been increased around religious sites in Homs and other major cities as authorities continue their investigation. Officials have not announced any arrests so far but stated that multiple leads are being pursued.
As Syria continues its recovery from years of conflict, the mosque bombing serves as a reminder of the persistent threats facing the country. While many Syrians hope for lasting peace, attacks such as this highlight the ongoing struggle to restore security and protect civilians from extremist violence.
