WASHINGTON, DC — MEMBERS of the United Nations Security Council have strongly condemned a terrorist attack carried out in Kabul, Afghanistan, on Monday (Jan. 19), which targeted a Chinese-owned establishment.
Media reports indicate that the attack was carried out by a lone suicide bomber who entered a popular restaurant before detonating an explosive device. The Islamic State group has claimed responsibility for the attack, which has also drawn strong condemnation from the Chinese government.
In a statement issued on Tuesday (Jan. 21) by the spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General, the Security Council described the incident as a “heinous terrorist act” that resulted in the deaths of six Afghan nationals and one Chinese citizen. Several others were injured, including a child.
“The members of the Security Council expressed their deepest sympathy and condolences to the families of the victims and to the people of Afghanistan and China, and they wished a speedy and full recovery to those who were injured,” the statement said.
The Council reaffirmed that terrorism, in all its forms and manifestations, remains one of the most serious threats to peace and security in Afghanistan and around the world.
“The members of the Security Council underlined the need to hold perpetrators, organizers, financiers and sponsors of these reprehensible acts of terrorism accountable and bring them to justice,” the statement continued. “They urged all States, in accordance with their obligations under international law and relevant Security Council resolutions, to cooperate actively with all relevant authorities in this regard.”
The Council further reiterated that acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation or where and by whom they are committed. Members reaffirmed the need for all States to combat terrorism by all lawful means, in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations and international obligations, including international human rights, refugee, and humanitarian law.
