Published: April 07, 2006

United States Condemns Bombing of Imam Ali Shrine in Najaf, Iraq

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State Department pledges assistance in bringing responsible parties to justice

The United States condemns the bombing outside the Imam Ali shrine in Najaf, Iraq, and extends its condolences to the people of Iraq. The bombing killed at least 13 people.

"The terrorists who seek to attack Iraq's religious sites are the enemies of all faiths and of all humanity," State Department spokesman Sean McCormack said April 6 in a written statement.

The shrine, which contains the tomb of the Prophet Muhammad's son-in-law, Ali, is one of the holiest sites in Shi'a Islam. A minibus packed with explosives was apparently targeting Shi'a pilgrims visiting the site.

McCormack's statement urged Iraqis to exercise restraint in response to this attack and pledged U.S. assistance in bringing the perpetrators to justice.

Following is the text of McCormack's statement:

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Office of the Spokesman
April 6, 2006

STATEMENT BY SEAN MCCORMACK, SPOKESMAN

Bombing in Holy City of Najaf

We extend our deepest condolences to the people of Iraq in the wake of the brutal bombing attack on worshippers near the Imam Ali shrine in Najaf. The terrorists who seek to attack Iraq's religious sites are the enemies of all faiths and of all humanity. The international community must stand united against them, and resolutely behind the people of Iraq. The United States condemns this cowardly act in the strongest possible terms. We ask all Iraqis to exercise restraint in the wake of this tragedy, and to pursue justice in accordance with the laws and constitution of Iraq. The United States will continue to do all in its power to assist the Government of Iraq in bringing to justice those responsible for this heinous crime.

Source: U.S. Department of State

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