JEDDAH: Thursday's attack on the Special Emergency Forces Mosque in Asir took everyone by surprise as the terrorists chose a different day and unusual target this time around, a local publication on Saturday.

Terror attacks in the recent past that were claimed by Daesh happened during the congregational prayers, targeting civilians, on Friday, a day held sacred by Muslims across the world. Many were killed and injured in the attacks in Saudi Arabia as well as Kuwait.

According to the publication, terrorists struck on Thursday, that too in a mosque where members of the security forces offer prayers, to spring a surprise and send across a message that they can strike anywhere, anytime.

The victims of the Asir bombing were engrossed in prayers when suddenly a bomber blew himself up. The message of the terrorists: we don't care whether it is a mosque or people worshipping God. The act proves beyond doubt that the extremists have nothing to do with religion and sanctity of mosques.

The Ministry of Interior had earlier announced that Daesh cells were planning to target members of the security forces during Friday prayers in Riyadh. However, the terrorists failed in their attempts and shifted their focus from the east of the Kingdom to the south-western region.