A bombing at an Alawite mosque in the Syrian city of Homs on Friday killed at least eight people and injured 21 others, according to authorities. The explosion occurred inside the Imam Ali bin Abi Talib mosque during Friday noon prayers, one of the busiest times of the week. Health Ministry official Najib al-Naasan said the toll could rise as some of the injured remain in critical condition.
Images released by Syria’s state-run media showed extensive damage inside the mosque, including blood-stained carpets, shattered windows, holes in the walls and signs of fire. The mosque is located in the Wadi al-Dhahab neighbourhood, a predominantly Alawite area in Homs, Syria’s third-largest city. Security officials said preliminary investigations indicate that explosive devices were planted inside the mosque, and a security cordon has been imposed while searches continue for those responsible.
The Syrian Foreign Ministry strongly condemned the attack, describing it as a cowardly act aimed at destabilising the country and undermining social harmony. In a statement, the ministry reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fighting terrorism, ensuring civilian safety, and bringing those behind the attack to justice. It also expressed condolences to the families of the victims and wished a speedy recovery to the injured.
The bombing comes amid renewed instability in Syria, where sectarian and political tensions have persisted despite a reduction in large-scale fighting. Since the departure of President Bashar al-Assad last year, the country has seen sporadic violence, particularly targeting Alawite communities. Earlier this year, clashes between security forces and insurgent groups left hundreds dead, while more recent fighting between government troops and Kurdish-led forces in northern Aleppo disrupted daily life and forced temporary closures of public institutions.
Authorities have warned that the situation remains fragile, with extremist groups continuing to exploit divisions to carry out attacks. Security operations have been intensified in and around Homs as investigations continue, amid fears of further violence in the region.
