Pulwama attack: The US urges countries to deny safe haven to terrorists

The United States on Thursday, February 14, strongly condemned the terror attack on a CRPF convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district and called on countries from across the globe to deny safe haven and support for terrorists designated under UN Security Council resolutions.

READ: US Asks Pakistan To Immediately End 'support' And 'safe Haven' To All Terrorist Groups

In the deadliest terror attack on security forces in Kashmir, at least 37 CRPF personnel were killed when their convoy was targetted in Pulwama district on the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway.

"The United States condemns in the strongest terms the terrorist attack today on an Indian Central Reserve Police Force convoy in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. We extend our deepest condolences to the victims and their families, and wish a speedy recovery to those injured," State Department deputy spokesperson Robert Palladino said in a statement.

Underlining that the US is resolutely committed to work with India to fight terrorism, Paladino added, "The UN designated, Pakistan-based terrorist group Jaish-e-Muhammad has claimed responsibility for this heinous act. We call on all countries to uphold their responsibilities pursuant to UN Security Council resolutions to deny safe haven and support for terrorists."

The convoy comprised 78 buses in which around 2,500 personnel were travelling from Jammu to Srinagar. A bus, in which 42 CRPF personnel were travelling, was extensively damaged in the blast which was followed by firing on the vehicle.

The JeM claimed responsibility for the attack, saying it was carried out by a suicide bomber, according to a local news agency. Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly condemned the attack and asserted that the sacrifices of the brave security personnel will not go in vain.

READ: US Department Of State Expresses Commitment To Work With Indian Govt To Combat Terrorism, Condemning Attack In Pulwama By Pak Backed JeM

Several countries from across the globe stood in support of India in the wake of the attack.