Washington condemns suicide attack in Grand-Bassam

The United States strongly condemned the terrorist attack in Cote d’Ivoire in the Grand-Bassam that left at least 16 civilians dead. 

"We send our thoughts and prayers to all affected by this senseless violence," said a statement by the State Department.

"The U.S. Embassy in Abidjan is making every effort to account for the welfare of American citizens in the area. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updated information to the U.S. citizen community as it becomes available".

"Cote d’Ivoire is an important regional partner to the United States, and in the days ahead we stand ready to support the Ivorian government as it investigates this heinous attack". 

Gunmen stormed three hotels in the beach resort city of Grand-Bassam Sunday, killing 16, officials said. At least one French national was murdered in the attack.

Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb claimed responsibility for the attacks in a statement posted on a social media account tied to the group.

Source: MENA