Islamabad, Feb 7 (NationPress) The number of fatalities from the suicide bombing in Islamabad has tragically increased to 36, as reported on Saturday by local news outlets citing a representative from the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS).

Dr. Aneeza Jalil mentioned to a prominent Pakistani newspaper, Dawn, "A 21-year-old individual, who was transported from the imambargah, has succumbed to his injuries."

Additionally, she informed that nine of the injured individuals are in a "very serious" state.

Dr. Jalil further noted that a total of 149 injured persons and 28 deceased were received at PIMS on Friday after the attack.

Furthermore, Dr. Riaz Janjua from HBS Hospital confirmed that three casualties from the bombing were recorded at their facility, according to Dawn.

In the meantime, authorities have identified the suspected bomber as a resident of Peshawar who allegedly underwent militant training in Afghanistan, as reported by local news on Saturday.

Initial findings shared by investigative sources indicate that the attacker, named Yasir Khan, had spent almost five months in Afghanistan before returning to Pakistan, according to The Express Tribune.

Investigators are also probing potential links between the suspect and the Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP), although officials have emphasized that the investigation is still in its early phases and no conclusive determinations have been made.

Sources suggest that Yasir Khan was influenced by the Salafi ideology and likely received militant training during his time across the border.

"He trained at the Mansoor Istashhadi training facility in Afghanistan's northeastern Kunar province and frequently traveled between the two countries," sources told The Express Tribune.

Authorities are striving to uncover a broader network that may have aided the attack, including identifying potential handlers, logistical supporters, and any domestic or cross-border connections that might have facilitated the operation.

Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry confirmed that the identity of the suicide bomber has been established through forensic analysis of the remains.

"He is not an Afghan citizen, but forensic examination of his remains has revealed details about how many times he traveled to Afghanistan," he stated.

The explosion at the Khadija Tul Kubra mosque, situated in the Tarlai Kalan region of Islamabad, resulted in at least 36 fatalities and nearly 170 injuries during Friday prayers, as reported by officials.

Witnesses recounted hearing gunfire just before the explosion, after which the suicide bomber detonated explosives amidst a large gathering of worshippers.

Hospitals throughout the capital activated emergency protocols as rescue teams rushed the injured to medical facilities, with numerous victims reported to be in critical condition.

While Pakistan quickly pointed fingers at external forces for the attack, the innocent citizens of the country have repeatedly borne the brunt of homegrown terrorism.