Middle East: Annan condemns suicide bombing in Jerusalem

United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan today condemned the suicide bombing in Jerusalem yesterday as a “heinous crime” and called on the Palestinian Authority (PA) to punish those responsible.

“The deliberate targeting of civilians is a heinous crime and cannot be justified by any cause,” Mr. Annan said in a statement issued by his spokesman in Tokyo, where he is on an official visit. “We urge the PA to take the steps necessary to bring to justice those who plan, facilitate and carry out such crimes.

“Our thoughts and condolences go out to the families and victims of this crime,” the statement concluded.