Death Toll from Suicide Bombing in Pakistan Rises to 63

A government official in Pakistan stated today, Wednesday, that the death toll from a suicide bombing has risen to 63, while 123 others remain hospitalized. Liaqat Khan, a medical supervisor at a hospital in the Bajaur region, told Reuters, "The death toll has reached 63 so far and is expected to rise, as 123 are still in various hospitals." Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif condemned the bombing, which occurred after months of political tension and an economic crisis, describing it as an attack on the democratic process. The Islamic State claimed responsibility for the explosion that took place on Sunday during a gathering of the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam party, known for its ties to hardline Islamists, though it opposes their efforts to overthrow the government.