Deeply Shocked and Outraged, Secretary-General Strongly Condemns ‘Cowardly’

Attack in Central Kabul, which Killed Five United Nations Staff

The following statement by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon was issued today:

I am deeply shocked and outraged by the cowardly attack on a guest house in central Kabul today, which killed five United Nations staff and injured a number of others.  I condemn in the strongest possible terms the despicable and brutal killing, for which the Taliban has claimed responsibility in an apparent effort to disrupt the second round of the presidential election.

My deepest condolences go to the families and friends of the victims who were viciously killed as they sought to serve the people of Afghanistan.  This indeed is a loss to all members of the United Nations family working together to support Afghanistan at this critical juncture.  The United Nations remains committed to continue its work in the country as the Afghan people strive for a better future.

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For information media • not an official record