Oman mosque attack: What’s ISIL’s game plan?

The attack on a Shia mosque last week was likely aimed at sowing sectarian discord in a nation that is a key mediator.

Near Oman’s mountain-crested capital of Muscat, a rare act of violence last week shook a peaceful country largely bereft of even petty crime.

Gunfire rang out, and shouts of “Oh God!” were heard on July 15 in Wadi Kabir, a district east of Muscat, as three gunmen entered the Imam Ali Mosque.

Congregants were gathered for a major religious event for Shia Muslims. But the event ended with five people killed – four Pakistani nationals and a policeman – and at least 30 others wounded, according to Omani and Pakistani authorities.

In a country known for “exceptional” religious tolerance and a long tradition of coexistence, the real target might have been Oman’s stability, especially given its role as a regional mediator, say analysts.

Soon after, ISIL (ISIS) claimed responsibility for the attack – its first ever of an operation in the Gulf nation.