Afghanistan: UN mission condemns attack on mosque that killed government official

The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) today strongly condemned an attack on a mosque, which killed the governor of the Logar Province, Arsala Jamal.

Mr. Jamal was killed this morning when an explosive device, reportedly affixed to a microphone, detonated while he was giving a speech to mark the Muslim holiday of Eid-Ul-Adha, at the central mosque of Pul-i-Alam.

“I am deeply shocked by this killing of a civilian, in a mosque, on one of the holiest days in the Muslim calendar,” said the Secretary-General's Deputy Special Representative for Afghanistan and acting head of UNAMA, Nicholas Haysom.

“Afghans deserve peace and should be able to celebrate the Eid holidays in an environment marked by friendship and brotherhood, free from violence and bloodshed.”

Seven other civilians were reportedly wounded, including the imam of the mosque. No one has yet claimed responsibility for the attack.

UNAMA has repeatedly condemned attacks that deliberately target civilians in violation of international humanitarian law, and the Mission reiterated its call for such attacks to cease immediately and for respect of the sanctity of protected religious places such as mosques.

UNAMA also extended its condolences to the family of Mr. Jamal and wished a speedy recovery for the wounded.