In a statement on Monday, Esmaeil Baqaei condemned the attacks in various parts of Mali which led to the death of the country’s defense minister, Sadio Camara, members of his family, and a large number of people, including Muslim worshippers at a mosque in the city of Kati near the capital, Bamako.
He extended condolences to the families of the victims and expressed sympathy with the government and people of Mali, wishing a speedy recovery for those injured in the incident.
The spokesman reaffirmed Iran’s principled position in condemnation of all forms of terrorism and violent extremism, describing the fight against terrorism as an international responsibility that requires cooperation and coordination among all countries, as well as continuous efforts to combat perpetrators, organizers, supporters, and financiers of terrorism.
Baqaei also expressed confidence that the Malian people would overcome terrorism and its backers through unity and solidarity.
Mali’s Defense Minister General Sadio Camara was killed in coordinated attacks on military sites nationwide, as assailants targeted his house.
Camara’s residence in the garrison town of Kati came under assault on Saturday during simultaneous attacks by an al-Qaeda affiliate and Tuareg rebels.
Camara’s second wife and two of his grandchildren were also killed in the attack on his home.
Gunmen attacked several other locations across Mali, including Bamako, as well as Gao and Kidal in the north and the central city of Sevare.