Dawa party urges Syria to probe Homs mosque bombing

BAGHDAD — The Islamic Dawa Party, led by former Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, called on Syrian authorities to conduct what it described as an urgent and transparent investigation into the bombing of the Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib Mosque in Homs, urging officials to identify and prosecute those responsible.

In a statement Saturday, the party described the bombing as a terrorist act targeting worshippers at a mosque and said it reflects the continued presence of extremist groups operating in different parts of Syria.

Syrian interim authorities said eight civilians were killed and 18 others were wounded in the explosion at the mosque in the Wadi al-Dhahab area of Homs, calling the toll preliminary.

A group calling itself “Saraya Ansar al-Sunna” claimed responsibility, according to a report by North Press.

Iraq’s Foreign Ministry also condemned the attack, saying, “We affirm our absolute rejection and condemnation of all forms of terrorism, violence, and extremism, regardless of their motives or sources, which target civilians and places of worship and seek to destabilize security and stability and incite strife in societies.”