Ban Ki-moon, Security Council condemn deadly bombing in Algeria

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and the Security Council today strongly condemned yesterday's terrorist bombing which killed and wounded numerous innocent civilians in Algeria and reportedly targeted President Abdelaziz Bouteflika's convoy.

In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Mr. Ban also repeated his longstanding call for the international community to join forces “to reject and to combat terrorism in all of its expressions.”

The attack took place during a visit of President Bouteflika to the city of Batna in eastern Algeria.

In his statement, Mr. Ban voiced solidarity with the Government and people of Algeria, particularly the victims' families.

In a presidential statement, the 15-member Council reaffirmed that “terrorism in all its forms and manifestations constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace and security, and that any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation, where, whenever and by whomsoever committed.”

Stressing the need to bring perpetrators, organizers, financiers and sponsors of the “heinous” and “reprehensible” act to justice, the body urged all States to fulfil their obligations under international law and Council resolutions and cooperate with Algerian authorities.

The Council also reminded States the any measures to combat terrorism must be taken in accordance with international law, in particular international human rights, refugee and humanitarian law.