A deadly shooting attack at a Shi’ite mosque in Muscat, Oman, has left nine people dead and at least 28 others injured. The incident occurred on Monday, July 15, 2024, during the observance of Ashura, a period of mourning for Shi’ite Muslims.According to Omani authorities, the attack took place at the Ali bin Abi Talib Mosque, also known as the Imam Ali Mosque, in the Al-Wadi Al-Kabir area of Muscat. The Royal Oman Police responded to the incident, neutralizing the three attackers in the process.Among the victims were four Pakistani nationals, one Indian national, and an Omani police officer. The Pakistani Foreign Ministry confirmed that 30 of its citizens are currently receiving treatment in local hospitals. The Indian embassy in Muscat also confirmed the death of one Indian national and injury to another.The Omani government has described the incident as a ‘terrorist’ attack and has launched a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Pakistan’s government has strongly condemned the attack and offered to provide any necessary assistance in the investigation.In response to the attack, the US Embassy in Muscat issued a security alert, canceling all visa appointments for Tuesday and advising US citizens to remain vigilant, follow local news, and heed the warnings and instructions of local authorities.This incident is particularly shocking as Oman is generally considered one of the safest countries in the Arab world. However, there have been warnings of possible terrorist attacks, particularly in areas near the border with Yemen, which is currently embroiled in a civil war.As the investigation continues, authorities are working to determine the motive behind the attack and whether any additional suspects are involved. The incident has raised concerns about security and religious tensions in the region, particularly during significant religious observances like Ashura.
Key points
- A shooting attack at a Shi’ite mosque in Muscat, Oman, during Ashura observance resulted in nine deaths and at least 28 injuries.
- Victims included four Pakistani nationals, one Indian national, and an Omani police officer.
- The Omani government has described the incident as a ‘terrorist’ attack and launched an investigation.
- International responses include condemnations from Pakistan and a security alert from the US Embassy in Muscat.
Contradictions👾There are slight discrepancies in the reported number of casualties across different sources, with some reporting six deaths and others reporting nine.
👾Some sources mention that worshippers were held ‘hostage’ before being freed by Omani forces, while others do not mention this detail.
