Afghan government strongly condemns terrorist attack against U.S. consulate in Herat

September 13, 2013

KABUL – The Afghan government strongly condemns the cowardly terrorist attack against the consulate of the United States in Herat city this morning.

This terrorist attack, which only resulted in damage to the main gate of the U.S. consulate but caused the death of two Afghan security guards at the consulate and at least 20 innocent civilians in the vicinity of the area, yet again illustrates both the desperation of the enemies of Afghanistan and their heinous, wanton disregard for the lives of Afghanistan’s peace-loving citizens.

According to the latest information provided by Herat provincial authorities, the attack began at 5 a.m. this morning when at least five terrorists attacked the front gate of the U.S. consulate in the city using a truck bomb, rocket-propelled grenades and light weapons. All five terrorists involved in the attack have been killed. Afghan national security forces quickly brought the attack under control, thus limiting possible larger casualties or any harm to U.S. consulate personnel or wider damage to the consulate building.

Our American partners have assured us that all U.S. consulate personnel are safe and accounted for.

The enemies of Afghanistan must know that they can never undermine the Afghan nation’s firm resolve and determination for lasting peace, security and prosperity through their campaign of terror. These enemies have once again shown the entire world that they have nothing to offer this country other than death and destruction.