International Community Condemns Cherchel Attack

The international community has condemned the terror attack that targeted Inter Arm Academy of Cherchel which left 18 military officials dead on Friday.

The US Embassy in Algiers said in a statement that the White House strongly condemns such a terror attack, while targeting the victim officials at the breaking of the fast moment, reflects the cruelty of terrorists.

 The statement reiterated the “respect” that the United States owes to sacrifices made by Algeria in her combat of terrorism in the region, and reaffirmed the support of the US to Algeria and the rest of her partners against democracy and liberty enemies. 

The EU described the attack as “barbaric,” as EU Foreign Minister, Catherine Ashtone and EU Commissar for Neighbourhood Policy, Stephan Volet said in a joint statement that “We have been shocked by that barbaric terror attack which targeted Cherchel military academy, and we do strongly condemn it.”

The EU statement said it endorses efforts that have been carried out by Algeria in the trend of reforms, adding that the EU will continue endorsing cooperation with the North African nation in this respect. 

British Foreign Minister William Hague told a statement that “I was shocked to hear of the terrorist attack on the Algerian Military Academy in Cherchell on 26 August  in which many were killed and injured,” adding “I condemn this brutal and callous attack.”

Mr Hague further mentioned that “The timing, at exactly the point when the officers were about to sit down to Iftar (breaking of the fast), demonstrates that these terrorists have absolutely no regard for human life nor respect for Ramadan.”

“The UK stands steadfast with Algeria in its fight against terrorism and I would like to send my sincere condolences to the families of those killed in the attack and to the Algerian government and people,” the statement added.

Mr Jean Ping, Chairperson of the Africa Union Commission, has condemned the attack saying “the fact that this unjustified crime was perpetuated during the holy month of Ramadan reflects “the Intolerance of terrorists and their disrespect for the human soul.”

Mr Ping further mentioned that counterterrorism efforts should be carried on everywhere and in all circumstances, in the frame of continental and international judicial tools.”

Meanwhile, Tunisia has also condemned the attack and “stands with the Algerian people and the families of those killed during these hard moments.”