US condemns Pakistan suicide attack

WASHINGTON: The United States on Friday condemned the suicide attack at a mosque in Pakistan that targeted a former minister and close ally of President Pervez Musharraf and killed at least 54 people.

"Violence for political gain is never justified, and is even more disturbing during such a special holiday in the Islamic faith," said State Department spokesman Sean McCormack, upset that the bombing "killed and injured so many innocent people during the Eid al-Adha holiday."

"Terrorists continue to use violent tactics to foster fear and limit freedom," said McCormack. "Those responsible for the attack have demonstrated that they lack any compassion, humanity, or respect for faith."

Sherpao was reportedly unhurt in the attack, which hit as the mosque was crowded with Muslim faithful.

"We send our condolences to the families of the victims, as well as to the Pakistani people," McCormack said.