A deadly suicide bombing hit an imambargah in Islamabad during Friday prayers, marking a brutal sectarian attack in Pakistan's federal capital. It was the first such massacre in several years and the second major attack in Islamabad since last November. Defense Minister blamed Afghanistan and India, but officials say a full investigation is needed. The suspected bomber reportedly traveled to Afghanistan, with early signs pointing to the Islamic State (IS). Some officials think the attack might be linked to recent anti-terror actions in Balochistan, but Baloch separatists rarely target sectarian groups. The banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) is a strong suspect. Past ties between the Punjabi Taliban and TTP show a pattern of sectarian violence, possibly revived to target soft spots. IS has been quiet recently but shares a fiercely sectarian ideology. Pakistan must ask how terrorists struck such a supposedly secure city. While stopping suicide bombers completely is difficult, better intelligence could prevent many attacks. Though violent groups like Lashkar-i-Jhangvi are weakened, their political supporters remain active, holding rallies and spreading hate. Until political backers of sectarian violence are tackled, counterterrorism efforts will struggle. Groups like the banned ASWJ share the violent vision of the TTP, declared the state's mortal enemy. Pakistan's safety depends on cracking down on these groups and stopping communal violence before it escalates. The nation cannot afford a return to widespread sectarian bloodshed. A thorough probe and swift action remain vital to protect Pakistan's future.