Security Council ‘appalled’ at deadly bomb blast in Somali capital

27 February 2014 – The United Nations Security Council said it is “appalled” by today’s terrorist attack in the Somali capital, Mogadishu, for which the Islamic insurgent group Al-Shabaab has claimed responsibility and which has killed at least 12 people and wounded several others.

“The members of the Security Council condemned the attack in the strongest terms,” the 15-member body added in a statement issued to the press.

Today’s suicide bombing near the country’s intelligence headquarters is the latest in a wave of attacks to hit the Horn of Africa nation in recent weeks. Al-Shabaab has claimed responsibility for many of the attacks, including one last week on the presidential compound in Mogadishu.

Council members expressed their deep concern at the recent terrorist attacks perpetrated by Al-Shabaab, and expressed their solidarity with the people and Government of Somalia at this “difficult” time.

“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 and whenever and by whomsoever committed,” the statement added.

They also underscored their determination to continue to support all international efforts aimed at ending the threat posed by Al-Shabaab.