India joins international condemnation of terrorist attack in Kabul

Through a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs, India strongly condemned the explosion outside Kabul airport in Afghanistan.

"India strongly condemns the bomb blasts in Kabul today. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims of this terrorist attack. Our thoughts and prayers also go out to the injured. Today's attacks reinforce the need for the world to stand unitedly against terrorism and all those who provide sanctuaries to terrorists," the statement said.

Thirteen US troops and at least 90 civilians are believed to have been killed in twin bomb blasts outside Kabul airport on August 26. The first blast was reported at the Abbey Gate in Kabul airport, while the second was near the Baron Hotel.

Pentagon press secretary John Kirby confirmed the development, saying that "a number of US service members" were killed and US President Joe Biden has vowed to “hunt down” the terrorists.

Meanwhile, back in India, a special Sukran ki Ardaas ceremony was held at Gurdwara Sri Arjan Dev Ji in New Delhi after three 'Swaroops' of Shri Guru Granth Sahib were brought from Afghanistan. Sikh devotees visiting the gurdwara expressed their gratitude to the Prime Minister Narendra Modi led Indian government and the Indian Air Force (IAF) for the safe arrival of the Sikh holy texts from the war-torn region.

The three “Swaroops” of the holy texts were flown to safety from Kabul in an Air India flight with 78 evacuees and were received at Delhi airport by Indian Minister Hardeep Singh Puri earlier in the week.

(ANI)