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Truck Bomb Driven Into US Embassy Gates In Herat
The initial explosion had damaged outer defences of the US consulate, allowing the attackers to breach the perimeter and shoot at the consulate buildings. The bomb had been placed in a vehicle.
Photo: Sky News
Just before dawn today (local time), suicide bombers drove a truck full of explosives into the main gate of the US Embassy in Herat, Western Afghanistan. The detonation of the truck bomb destroyed the perimeter defenses allowing the gunmen who had arrived in the truck to make it into the compound and start shooting. All the embassy staff are accounted for according to The International Security Force. (ISAF). (source)
Marie Harf, US State Department deputy spokesperson told the BBC:
“A truck carrying attackers drove to the front gate, and attackers, possibly firing rocket propelled grenades and assault rifles, commenced attacking Afghan Protective forces on the exterior of the gates. Shortly after, the entire truck exploded, extensively damaging the front gate of the consulate.”
She added: “It appears American and contract security personnel addressed any attackers who managed to enter the compound,” said Ms Harf.
Reports put the number of dead at 18 including the driver of the truck. Herat is in the west of Afghanistan near the Iranian border. The situation there is volatile, and it’s considered one of the more ‘lawless’ areas of the country.
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