Istanbul: Leaders from around the world condemned the terror attack on Istanbul’s AtatürkAirport which left at least 36 people dead and 147 others injured on June 28.
Condemning the terror attack at Istanbul’s Ataturk International Airport, the US and UN has called for stepped-up cooperation in fighting terrorism and has vowed “steadfast” support for Turkey.
“Ataturk International Airport, like Brussels Airport which was attacked earlier this year, is a symbol of international connections and the ties that bind us together,” said the White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest.
US President Barack Obama was briefed on the explosions by his Assistant for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism Lisa Monaco.
“Our deepest condolences go out to the families and loved ones of those killed, and we wish a speedy recovery to those injured. We remain steadfast in our support for Turkey, our NATO Ally and partner, along with all of our friends and allies around the world, as we continue to confront the threat of terrorism,” he said.
Condemning the terrorist attack at Istanbul’s Ataturk International Airport, the UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, expressed his deepest sympathy and condolences to the families of the victims and to the Government and people of Turkey.
Presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton has said the terror attack in Turkey is a reminder that the US can’t retreat from this part of the world and needs to deepen co-operation with allies in the Middle East and Europe to take on this threat.
“Today’s attack in Istanbul only strengthens our resolve to defeat the forces of terrorism and radical jihadism around the world. And it reminds us that the United States cannot retreat,” Clinton said in a statement.
“We must deepen our cooperation with our allies and partners in the Middle East and Europe to take on this threat,” she said adding that such cooperation is essential to protecting homeland and keeping the country safe.
“Yet another terrorist attack, this time in Turkey. Will the world ever realize what is going on? So sad,” Republican presumptive presidential nominee Donald Trump tweeted.
Pakistan strongly condemned the terror attack at Ataturk airport in Turkish capital, terming it as “mindless act of
terrorism”.
“We condemn this mindless act of terrorism in the strongest possible terms. We offer our heartfelt sympathies
and condolences to the bereaved families and to the brotherly people and government of Turkey,” the Foreign Office said.
The Australian government on Wednesday condemned the deadly bomb attacks.
Foreign Minister Julie Bishop extended Australia’s sympathies to Turkey following the attack which ripped through the busy airport, and said the government was desperately trying to determine if any Australians were in the area at the time of the bombings, Xinhua news agency reported.
“I understand the Turkish authorities have secured the area of the attack and have advised that Ataturk Airport will be closed for up to 48 hours.”
Turkey is a popular holiday spot for Australians seeking to escape the winter chill down under, and Bishop said the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFAT) was “urgently” trying to locate any Australians who might have been caught up in the bombings.
