NEW YORK - I was very, very sad to hear about this shocking incident. So many people, including children, were killed by the act of a single individual. We expect that an investigation will rapidly establish the facts and that those responsible will be held accountable and that the public will be fully informed.

When it comes to the protection of civilian populations, I have been very vocal here and all around the world, not only in Afghanistan. We will continue to urge all authorities and military personnel who are engaging in these operations to pay extreme and utmost care to protect the civilian population.