Deadly Algerian bombing sparks outrage from Security Council

The Security Council has strongly condemned today’s suicide bombing at a gendarmerie training academy in Algeria that has left dozens of people dead and injured many more.

Offering their condolences to the victims “of this heinous act of terrorism,” Council members issued a presidential statement stressing the need to bring the perpetrators, organizers and sponsors of the bombing to justice.

“The Security Council reaffirms 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, wherever, whenever and by whomsoever committed,” said Ambassador Jan Grauls of Belgium, which holds the rotating Council presidency this month.

The statement urged all States to cooperate with Algerian authorities to try to bring the perpetrators and sponsors of the bombing to justice.

Mr. Grauls added that Council members emphasized to States that any measures they take to combat terrorism must comply with their obligations under international law, especially concerning international human rights, refugee and humanitarian law.

Media reports say today’s suicide bombing occurred near the entrance to the academy at Issers, some 60 kilometres east of the Algerian capital.