The United Nations and the US have condemned the suicide attack in Pakistan that killed 54 people and said terrorism in all its forms and manifestations is unjustifiable and an affront to peaceful and democratic societies.
At least 54 people were killed and over 100 injured in the attack on Sunday when more than 400 members of the conservative Jamiat Ulema Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) party, known for its links to hardline political Islam, had gathered for a meeting under a large tent in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Khar town, which borders Afghanistan. The banned terrorist group Islamic State (ISIS) has claimed responsibility for the suicide attack.
UN General Assembly President Csaba Korosi said strongly condemns the suicide attack in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Pakistan, his spokesperson told reporters at the UN headquarters in New York.
“The President conveys his deepest sympathy and condolences to the families of the victims, the Government and the people of Pakistan. Terrorism in all its forms and manifestations is criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of its motivation, wherever, whenever and by whomsoever commits it,” he said.
Korosi urges the international community to strengthen its efforts to combat the scourge of terrorism, and to bring the perpetrators to justice, the spokesperson said.
UN Secretary-General Guterres has also extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and wished a prompt recovery to the wounded.
“The UN chief also called on the Pakistani authorities to bring those responsible to justice,” UN Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq told reporters in New York on Monday. US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller, at a separate briefing here, condemned the attack in northwestern Pakistan.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of life and injuries sustained from the explosion and share our heartfelt condolences with those affected by the attack,” he told reporters in Washington on Tuesday.