Narendra Modi condemns Herat attack; closely monitoring the situation

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister-designate Narendra Modi today talked to Afghan President Hamid Karzai over the attack on the Indian Consulate in Herat province and was assured that everything will be done to protect the Indian missions in Afghanistan.

Modi also spoke to India's Ambassador in Afghanistan Amar Sinha soon after the attack, condemned it and said that he was closely monitoring the situation.

He also lauded the role of security forces manning the Consulate in Herat for their valiant efforts in fighting and killing the terrorists who attacked it.

"President Karzai & I talked about Consulate attack in Herat. He assured me he will do everything to protect India's Missions in Afghanistan," Modi tweeted.

During their telephonic conversation, the Indian PM-designate also thanked Karzai for the efforts of the Indian and Afghanistan forces in thwarting the attack on the Indian Consulate.

"India salutes the efforts of India's security personnel & Afghan security forces for their valiant efforts to fight the terrorists in Herat."

Modi also praised the "indominable spirit" of the consulate staff in Herat for maintaining a high morale.

"I salute the Consulate staff for their indomitable spirit & high morale throughout the difficult circumstances," he said.

"I condemn the attack on our consulate in Herat, Afghanistan. Closely monitoring the situation. I have spoken to the Ambassador as well," he said.

Gunmen armed with heavy weapons including rocket propelled grenades launched a pre-dawn assault on the consulate during which all the four attackers were killed. All the diplomatic staff were safe.

Indian Ambassador to Afghanistan Amar Sinha said there were nine Indians in the mission apart from local Afghans.