ISAF Condemns Faryab Mosque Bombing

WASHINGTON, Oct. 26, 2012 – The International Security Assistance Force condemns with grave conviction the suicide attack carried out today at the Eid Gah Mosque in Maimana, Faryab province, in Afghanistan.

Dozens were killed or injured in the explosion as they left the mosque after the opening prayers of the holy observation of Eid al-Adha.

“I condemn this heinous act, which is an affront to human life, to religious devotion, and to the peaceful aspirations of the Afghan people,” said Marine Corps Gen. John R. Allen, the ISAF commander. “I offer my condolences to the families and friends of those who were killed or injured, and the resources of ISAF to help however we can. This violence undertaken at a place of worship, and during Eid, once again shows the insurgency’s callous hypocrisy and disregard for religion and faith.

“In my recent remarks to commemorate this most holy Muslim observance of Eid al-Adha, I spoke of the admiration I hold for the Afghan people’s desire for peace,” Allen continued. “Today’s tragic attack makes this feeling all the more poignant as we — the coalition and the Afghan people — stand together in tireless pursuit of peace.”