By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora/PNA
MANILA — The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on Tuesday called on nations “to combat by all means” terrorism, following the twin bombings that hit a church in Jolo, Sulu that killed at least 20 and injured 112.
“The members of the Security Council reiterated that any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation, wherever, whenever and by whomsoever committed,” the UNSC said in a statement.
The UNSC members “reaffirmed the need for all States to combat by all means, in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations and other obligations under international law, including international human rights law, international refugee law and international humanitarian law, threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts.”
The UN body condemned the attack in Sulu in “strongest terms” and described it as a “heinous and cowardly terrorist attack”.
The 15-member UNSC expressed “deepest sympathy and condolences” to the families of the victims and to the Philippine government.
The UNSC underlined the need to hold accountable all perpetrators, organizers, financiers, and sponsors to this terror act.
In accordance with their obligations under international law and relevant Security Council resolutions, all nations were urged “to cooperate actively” with the Philippines and other relevant authorities in combating any threats to regional peace.
“The members of the Security Council reaffirmed that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace and security,” it said.
The deadly attack hit the Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Cathedral during a mass, which the Islamic State has claimed responsibility.