A suicide bombing at a religious school in Pakistan, known as the “University of Jihad,” killed four people on Friday. The blast happened during Friday prayers when many people gathered at the school in Akora Khattak, which is about 60 kilometers east of Peshawar. Among those who lost their lives was Hamid ul Haq, the head of the school.
Police chief Abdul Rasheed confirmed that Hamid ul Haq was likely the target of the attack. Thirteen others were injured in the explosion. The bomb went off in the front row, where many people were preparing to pray.
The school is home to around 4,000 students who receive free food, clothing, and education. It is known for teaching a strong and fierce interpretation of Islam and has produced many fighters for the Taliban. Notable figures like Mullah Omar and Jalaluddin Haqqani, who led violent groups, once studied there.
The school has been at the center of militant activity for years, training many young people who then engage in conflicts in Afghanistan and beyond. Instead of shutting down these schools, the Pakistani government has generally allowed them to continue operating, largely because of their ties to various political parties.
Since the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan in August 2021, violence has increased in border areas with Pakistan. Last year was especially deadly in Pakistan, with over 1,600 people killed in attacks. The Pakistani government blames Afghan leaders for not taking action against militants who launch attacks from Afghan soil, a claim that the Taliban government denies.
Leave a Reply