The assault occurred early Monday as morning parade drills were under way, amplifying concerns about recurring attacks on federal paramilitary units. Officials say the attackers failed to reach the open-ground assembly point, preventing a significantly higher death toll.

Tensions remain strained between Islamabad and Afghanistan’s Taliban authorities, with Pakistan accusing Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) of cross-border sanctuaries since 2021. No group has claimed responsibility for the latest attack.

Attackers Breach Main Gate

Security officials said the first bomber detonated at the main entrance around 8:00 a.m., killing at least three Frontier Constabulary officers stationed at the gate.

Two additional bombers attempted to force entry toward the inner compound but were shot dead by guards positioned near the parade ground. The attack unfolded in a densely populated neighborhood of Peshawar, heightening civilian risk. Witnesses reported roads sealed by army and police units within minutes of the explosion.

Casualties And Emergency Measures

Hospitals declared emergencies as at least five to six wounded were transferred to Lady Reading Hospital, including two FC personnel.

Medical officials said all injured remained in stable condition. Police added that the attackers were on foot and aimed to strike the morning drill area, where dozens of personnel were assembled, but were contained before reaching the formation zone.

Security Implications And Cross-Border Ties

Authorities have linked recent attacks to TTP networks that intensified operations following several deadly clashes on the Pakistan–Afghanistan border last month.

Pakistan has repeatedly accused Afghan Taliban leaders of allowing TTP operatives to maneuver freely inside Afghanistan since their 2021 takeover. Less than two weeks earlier, a suicide bomber killed 12 people outside an Islamabad court, adding pressure on federal forces confronting escalating militant violence.

Political Response

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack, praising what he called a “timely” response that averted mass casualties. President Asif Ali Zardari issued similar condemnation and urged full accountability.

Security agencies expanded cordons around paramilitary facilities nationwide, citing an uptick in assaults on Frontier Constabulary units in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.