Statement attributable to the Spokesman for the Secretary-General on Afghanistan

The Secretary-General was shocked and angered to learn of the attack today on the Abdul Rab Akhundzada mosque in Kandahar, Afghanistan. While the number of casualties is not yet known, it is clear that this was one of the most deadly assaults against civilians in Afghanistan in several years. He is outraged by this senseless attack, all the more so as it was directed against a place of worship during a memorial service for a member of the clergy, who was himself assassinated two days ago.

The Secretary-General strongly condemns this heinous act of terrorism, and expresses his profound condolences to the Government of Afghanistan and the bereaved families of the victims.