In eastern Afghanistan, officials reported a suicide bomber struck early on Monday at the gates of Jalalabad airport, killing nine people in an attack rebels said was revenge for the burning of the Quran by U.S. troops. After the burning, American officials issued a series of apologies including one from President Barack Obama himself. Afghan President Hamid Karzai has urged the people to act peacefully, reportedly saying that the Afghans should not let the insurgents exploit their indignation to spark violence.
Nangarhar provincial police spokesman Hazrad Mohammad reported that the suicide bomber drove up to the gates of the airport, which is for both civilian and international military aircraft, after dawn and ignited his explosives in a “very strong” blast. One soldier, two airport guards, and six civilians were killed, while six people were injured. The Taliban has claimed responsibility for the attack.
