In Syria, eight people were killed and more than 18 others were injured when an explosion ⁠struck an Alawite mosque ​in Homs province. According to the State news agency SANA, the attack targeted the Imam Ali bin Abi Talib Mosque in the Wadi al-Dahab neighbourhood of Homs during Friday prayers. Initial investigations indicate the blast was caused by explosive devices planted inside the mosque.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has unequivocally condemned the deadly attack on the mosque in Syria, stressing that attacks on civilians and places of worship are unacceptable. According to his spokesman Stephane Dujarric, Mr Guterres said those responsible for the attack must be identified and held accountable. The incident comes as Syria’s new administration seeks to tighten security nationwide and pursue remnants of the former regime accused of stirring unrest.