Tuesday, January 23, 2018
Kabul (BNA) Joining the world in condemning the terrorist attack on the Intercontinental Hotel in Kabul, the United States on Sunday applauded Afghan forces for their brave response.
Gunmen in army uniform stormed the hotel late on Saturday and battled Afghan Special Forces through the night, killing more than 30 people and wounded several others.
“The United States applauds the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces for their bravery in responding to the attack,” Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said.
While strongly condemning the assault, Tillerson said the US was in contact with Afghan authorities regarding their investigation of the incident.
“We have seen the Taliban’s claim of responsibility and condemn terrorist groups for their violent campaign against Afghan and foreign personnel working to improve Afghanistan,” he said.
“We mourn all those who lost their lives in the attack, whether Afghans or citizens of other countries. We offer our deepest condolences to the families and friends of those who were killed and wish for the speedy recovery of those wounded,” Tillerson added.
The foreign secretary said the US stood with the government and people of Afghanistan and remained firmly committed to supporting Kabul’s efforts at achieving peace, security and prosperity.
“Violence like what we witnessed yesterday has no place in Afghanistan, or anywhere else in the world,” he remarked.
In a statement, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also denounced the attack. He extended his condolences to the families of the victims and wished a speedy recovery to those injured.
He also expresses his solidarity with the government and people of Afghanistan.
