LOC09:31
06:31 GMT
BAGHDAD, Dec 12 (KUNA) -- The US Embassy in Baghdad and Multi-National
Force (NMF) strongly condemn Thursday's terrorist suicide bombing in Kirkuk
and pointed fingers at Al-Qaeda.
In a joint statement issued late Thursday, US Ambassador Ryan C. Crocker
and General Ray Odierno condemned the attack, and extended their sincere
condolences to the families of the victims and to their communities.
"The perpetrators of this horrific attack continue to target all Iraqi
citizens, regardless of religion or community. Al-Qaeda in Iraq seeks to
divide Iraqi communities and halt the progress Iraqis are making in building a
stable, inclusive and tolerant society," they said, according to the statement.
"We stand ready to work with the government and the people of Iraq to
combat Al-Qaeda and other terrorists and to help pave the way for a secure,
democratic and prosperous Iraq," they concluded.
Yesterday's suicide bombing in a Kirkuk restaurant left some 50 dead and
105 injured. (end)
ahh.ema
KUNA 120931 Dec 08NNNN