The United Nations Security Council has condemned the deadly terrorist attack in Kohat and called for those responsible, along with their organisers, financiers and sponsors, to be held accountable.
At least 23 people were killed in the September 18 two-pronged attack, including 17 police personnel and six civilians.
The assault began when an explosives-laden vehicle detonated near a mosque inside the old Police Lines during Friday prayers. Following the explosion, armed attackers entered the compound and targeted police facilities.
Eight terrorists were killed during retaliatory operations by police and security forces, according to local authorities.
The Security Council expressed sympathy and condolences to the families of those killed and to the government, while wishing the injured a speedy recovery.
Council members stressed that terrorism in all its forms remains a serious threat to international peace and security. They called for those responsible for the attack to be brought to justice and urged all states to cooperate with Pakistan in efforts to address terrorism.
The council also reaffirmed that terrorist acts are criminal and unjustifiable regardless of their motivation, location, timing or perpetrators. It called on all states to combat terrorism in accordance with international law and relevant obligations.
The attack was claimed by the Ittehadul Mujahideen, a militant group led by Hafiz Gul Bahadur.
A clearance operation launched following the attack was later completed, with security personnel clearing key sections of the affected buildings.
The incident has renewed concerns over the security situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where terrorist attacks have increased in recent months.
Kohat has previously witnessed deadly attacks targeting police facilities. In 2010, a remote-controlled bomb exploded inside a police colony near the Kohat Police Lines, killing 20 people, mostly relatives of police personnel, and injuring more than 90 others.
In response to recent terrorist attacks in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including the Kohat bombing, Pakistan’s armed forces also carried out airstrikes against militant positions in the border region with Afghanistan. More than 28 terrorists were reported killed in the operation.
Pakistan’s military leadership has reiterated its commitment to countering terrorism and maintaining security and stability in the country.
