RIYADH December 26, 2025 – The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has strongly condemned a terrorist explosion that struck the Imam Ali bin Abi Talib Mosque in the Syrian city of Homs during Friday prayers, resulting in at least eight deaths and around 18 injuries.
In an official statement released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on December 26, Saudi Arabia expressed its outright rejection of terrorism and extremism, particularly attacks targeting places of worship and innocent civilians.
“The Kingdom affirms its categorical rejection of terrorism and extremism, the targeting of mosques and places of worship, and terrorizing innocent civilians,” the statement read. It further extended solidarity with Syria following the “tragic incident” and support for the Syrian government’s efforts to maintain security and stability.
The ministry also offered sincere condolences to the victims’ families, the Syrian government, and its people, while wishing a speedy recovery to the injured and ongoing peace for the nation.
The attack occurred in the Wadi al-Dahab neighborhood, a predominantly Alawite area in Syria’s third-largest city. Syrian state media reported that explosive devices detonated inside the mosque, causing significant damage, including bloodstained carpets, shattered windows, and fire outbreaks.
An Islamist militant group, Saraya Ansar al-Sunna, claimed responsibility for the bombing via Telegram, marking a resurgence in sectarian-targeted violence amid ongoing tensions in post-Assad Syria.
Regional neighbors, including Jordan, Lebanon, and Qatar, joined Saudi Arabia in condemning the attack, highlighting concerns over escalating instability. Syrian authorities described it as a “cowardly criminal act” aimed at undermining national security.

