Bodies yet to be identified

JEDDAH: The bodies of the three worshippers who died in an explosion at Al-Anoud Mosque in Dammam on Friday have not been handed over to their relatives, as the identification process is still under way.
Such was the intensity of the blast that the victims’ bodies were charred beyond recognition and some were completely dismembered; DNA testing seems to be the only way to recognize them, sources were quoted as saying by local media on Sunday.
Three people and an IS suspect who exploded the bomb in the parking area of the mosque were killed and an unspecified number of worshippers were injured.
In another development, commercial complexes in Alkhobar have been put on alert, following social media messages containing warnings of a possible attack on the city.
The American Embassy has reportedly warned its citizens to be alert, especially during weekends, and not to venture out unless necessary. Some Americans have been told media that they avoid shopping on Fridays.
A security source said protection would be provided wherever necessary with the coordination of the Ministry of Islamic Affairs. Directions will be issued on mechanisms to protect houses of worship, particularly during Ramadan, including a decision on women praying in mosques.
Kawthar Alarbash, mother of slain Mohammad Al-Issa, and the aunt of two other victims, said: “We are targeted to forget that we are Muslims and have the same Qibla. We should not drift away by such attempts to alienate us.”
Hmoud Al-Zayedi, a terrorism expert, said: “Desperate attempts by IS to fuel sedition between Sunnis and Shiites in Saudi Arabia are clear in the massage of Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi to his men to target three Shiite facilities in the Eastern Province and members of the Royal family.