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Türkiye's Foreign Ministry condemned a terrorist attack on a mosque in Homs, Syria that killed at least eight people and wounded 18 others during Friday prayers, pledging continued support for the country despite ongoing provocations.
A suicide bomber detonated an explosive belt inside the Imam Ali bin Abi Talib Mosque in the Wadi al-Dahab neighborhood of Homs on Friday, though some initial reports suggested the blast may have resulted from planted explosives. Syrian security forces cordoned off the predominantly Alawite district and launched an investigation into the attack.
"We condemn the heinous terrorist attack carried out today against a mosque in Syria's Homs province," the Foreign Ministry said in a written statement. The ministry extended condolences to the Syrian government and people, offering prayers for those killed in the bombing.
The statement emphasized Türkiye's commitment to standing with Syria as the country works to strengthen its stability, security, unity and solidarity. The ministry noted this support continues "despite all provocations," signaling Ankara's determination to maintain regional engagement amid ongoing security challenges.
The attack targeted worshippers shortly after Friday prayers concluded at the mosque, which serves as a significant religious site for Shia and Alawite communities in Homs, Syria's third-largest city. The Alawite sect, an offshoot of Shia Islam, forms a substantial minority in Syria and has been closely associated with the country's political leadership.
No group has immediately claimed responsibility for the bombing, though speculation has pointed toward extremist organizations such as Daesh or groups linked to al-Julani, according to regional media reports. The lack of a claim has left questions about the perpetrators' identity and motives.
Syrian authorities were examining whether the explosion resulted from a suicide bomber or pre-planted explosives, with investigators still working to determine the attack's mechanics. The targeted nature of the bombing on a sectarian community gathering has raised concerns about renewed communal violence in the war-torn nation.
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