Karzai condemns insurgent attacks during Ramadan

Afghan President Hamid Karzai on Sunday condemned the repeated insurgent attacks that took place during the holy month of Ramadan in various provinces In a speech marking the Eid Al-Fitr holiday, Karzai was quoted by Afghan Pajhowk News Agency (PAN) as saying the enemies of Muslims treated the Afghan nation cruelly with bombs, explosions and suicide attacks even in mosques. He asked the Taliban if they were not responsible for the attacks, they need to disown them. “If you are not behind this, it is being done in your name. As Muslims, as Afghans, raise your voice and say that you did not do it,” he appealed. Eid Al-Fitr, which marks the end of the month-long fasting, was celebrated across the country, with faithful offering Eid prayers in Eidgahs and mosques in all major cities. Talking to reporters after the prayers, Karzai congratulated Afghans and the entire Muslim world on celebrating the festival. He prayed for peace in Afghanistan and unity among Muslim countries. Nearly70 people have been killed and more than 200 injured in insurgent attacks during the month, with most of the casualties talking place in southwestern Nimroz and northern Kunduz provinces. The Taliban have not asserted responsibility for the suicide attacks that took place during the month.