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Pompeo blames “Islamic radical terror” for Sri Lankan attack

US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, has blamed the “radical Islamic terror” for the Easter bombings in Sri Lanka.

The attacks have claimed the lives of close to 300 people and Pompeo has claimed that several Americans were amongst the casualties. At least 35 foreigners were among the fatalities.

Speaking at a news conference Pompeo said:

“What was supposed to be a joyful Easter Sunday was marred by a horrific wave of Islamic radical terror and bloodshed,”

“We urge that any evildoers be brought to justice expeditiously and America is prepared to support that,” 

 “We stand committed, resolved, to confront terrorism together.”

Pompeo has spoken to the Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe Monday morning and stated that the United States is offering “all possible assistance”. 

Pompeo's statement follows the Sri Lankan government claim that blames for the suicide bombings lies with a group known as “National Thowheeth Jama-ath”.

Pompeo further stated that the attacks show that “radical Islamic terror remains a threat”. 

When questioned on the claim that ISIS had been defeated Pompeo stated: 

“Sadly, this evil exists in the world and the United States and all of its partners that are cooperating in the de-ISIS campaign, some 80 countries, and other nations too that are assisting us in defeating this terrorism around the world, we have to remain active and vigilant and it’s going to require attention. There is no doubt about that”.

Read more here. 

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