US envoy condemns Kabul attack

NEW DELHI - United States Ambassador to India Timothy J. Roemer on Saturday strongly condemned Friday’s suicide bombings carried out by Taliban militants in Kabul, which killed at least 10 Indian citizens among many others.

In a statement, Ambassador Roemer expressed his deepest condolences to the families of the Indian citizens killed and injured in the attack, and said that he along with the entire nation mourns their death and values their services and contribution to the nation.

“I offer sincere condolences to the Government of India and the families, friends, and loved ones of those injured and killed in yesterday’s tragic attack in Kabul,” Roemer said.

“My heart goes out with prayers for a speedy recovery to those injured, and comfort for the families of those who lost their lives,” he added.

Roemer further highlighted that Indian Government is helping to ensure a future of stability and prosperity for Afghans.

“India’s humanitarian commitment in Afghanistan is improving the lives of so many, working in areas such as agriculture, development, and children’s hospitals. The terrorists who argeted and murdered innocent people work against peace and dialogue and offer nothing but bloodshed, violence, and chaos,” he said.

According to reports, a suicide bomber detonated explosives near the guesthouse, and the explosions were followed by several smaller blasts.

Police said that a suicide bomber blew himself up, while two other attackers were shot dead.

A spokesman for the Taliban claimed responsibility for the attacks.

The violence came as NATO and the Afghan forces continue Operation Moshtarak to tackle the Taliban in Helmand province.

An eyewitness said he saw the suicide bomber blowing himself up on the first floor of the hotel while he was running out from the premises after hearing the first explosion near the kebab shop.

“I saw foreigners were crying and shouting. It was a very bad situation inside. God helped me, otherwise I would be dead. I saw one suicide bomber blowing himself up on the first floor of the hotel,” Sky News quoted Najibullah, a worker at the hotel, as saying.

Witnesses said they heard at least two smaller explosions and said they saw gunmen enter the building.

The four-star hotel is about 15 minutes by road from Kabul International Airport, and is close to most government offices. (ANI)