On Sunday, a massive explosion occurred outside Karachi Airport in Pakistan, resulting in the tragic deaths of two individuals and leaving at least eight others injured. Authorities have confirmed that the blast was caused by a tanker exploding near the airport premises, which is considered the largest airport in Pakistan.
While initial reports suggested that the explosion was a result of the tanker mishap, the provincial home minister revealed to a local TV station that the incident was actually a targeted attack aimed at foreigners. Specifically, it was noted that the attack was directed towards Chinese nationals, with one individual from China sustaining injuries in the blast.
Notably, Pakistan is currently home to a significant number of Chinese workers who are actively involved in Beijing's ambitious Belt and Road Initiative, a major infrastructure project linking various regions with China. The presence of Chinese nationals in the country has raised concerns about their safety and security in light of such incidents.
Footage captured at the scene depicted vehicles engulfed in flames and a thick plume of smoke billowing into the air. The area was swiftly secured by a substantial military presence, and investigations are ongoing to determine the exact nature and motive behind the explosion.
Authorities, including the Deputy Inspector General and Home Minister, visited the blast site to assess the situation firsthand. While details are still emerging, it has been confirmed that police officers were among those injured in the blast, underscoring the severity of the incident.
Rahat Hussain, a civil aviation department employee, described the blast as so powerful that it caused tremors within the airport buildings, highlighting the magnitude of the explosion and its impact on the surrounding area.
