KABUL, Afghanistan - The International Security Assistance Force strongly condemns the senseless and deadly attacks in Paktia and Laghman today, which claimed the lives of many Afghan civilians.
A family of seven Afghan civilians was brutally murdered today when an improvised explosive device, planted by extremists, detonated on a major highway in Laghman.
The violence continued today when a suicide bomber blew himself up near a school in Paktia, killing several civilians, including students, and wounding some two dozen other Afghan civilians. This attack demonstrates a blatant disregard for human life and was a targeted measure against young people seeking to exercise their right to education.
"Our heartfelt sympathies go out to the families and loved ones of those affected in today's tragic events. However, these actions will not deter ISAF and its Afghan partners from working towards a more stable and secure Afghanistan," said Brig. Gen. Günter Katz, ISAF spokesperson. "Many of those who were killed today were seeking education, striving to learn as young people should do, or as was the case with the family, simply trying to live a life in peace and dignity. ISAF will continue to stand alongside the people of Afghanistan and the Afghan National Security Forces as they contribute to a better future."