A deadly suicide blast ripped through Islamabad, killing 12 people on the same day the nation’s Interior Minister vowed that the safety of the visiting Sri Lankan cricket team would be fully ensured, highlighting the severe security challenges facing the capital. The attack, which occurred outside the District and Sessions Court in the G-11 area, also left 27 individuals injured.

In the midst of the city’s heightened alert, Federal Interior Minister and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi inspected the protective arrangements at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Following a detailed review of the measures in place for the ongoing Pakistan-Sri Lanka match, he issued a strong statement regarding the visitors’ protection.

Naqvi announced that the Sri Lankan contingent has been granted the official status of ‘State Guest.’ In a statement shared on social media, he affirmed the government’s commitment to the team’s well-being. “No compromise will be made regarding the security of the visiting team,” he added.

The PCB Chairman also emphasized that fostering a peaceful and stable environment for sports and other activities remains a collective priority for the authorities. The minister’s inspection and subsequent assurances occurred against the grim backdrop of the day’s fatal bombing in the federal capital.