Security Council deplores deadly blast in Belarusian capital

The Security Council has strongly condemned this week’s apparent terrorist attack in the Belarusian capital in which an explosion at a subway station killed at least 11 people and injured dozens of others.

“The members of the Security 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, wherever, whenever and by whomsoever committed,” the 15-member panel said in a press statement issued yesterday.

Media reports stated that Monday’s explosion occurred at Oktyabrskaya station in the centre of Minsk just before 6 p.m., during the early evening rush hour period for commuters.

In the press statement the Security Council reiterated its determination to combat all forms of terrorism, in accordance with its responsibilities under the United Nations Charter.

“The members of the Security Council reminded States that they must ensure that measures taken to combat terrorism comply with all their obligations under international law, in particular international human rights, refugee and humanitarian law.”

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has expressed sadness over the attack and offered his sympathies to the families of the victims.