KABUL - The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) strongly condemns today’s targeted attack on government minister and the Head of the Secretariat of the country’s High Peace Council, Masoom Stanekzai.

A suicide bomber reportedly detonated his explosives near Minister Stankezai’s passing motorcade in the capital, Kabul. The minister was not injured in the attack which caused the death of one civilian and injured several others.

“All attacks on civilians should be condemned. This attack is particularly worthy of condemnation as it targeted someone who has been working incessantly and tirelessly for peace and reconciliation in the country for many years, particularly through his work as head of the High Peace Council Secretariat,” said the Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Afghanistan and head of UNAMA, Ján Kubiš.

“Fortunately, the attack was not successful,” Mr. Kubiš added. “However, unfortunately and regrettably, it killed a civilian and left several other civilians with injuries. Those responsible should be brought to justice quickly.”

UNAMA reiterates that attacks directed against civilians are serious violations of international humanitarian law which parties to the armed conflict – including all anti-Government elements – must uphold.

The Mission expresses its condolences to the family of the victim and wishes a speedy recovery for the injured.