Sununu, NH Congressional Delegation Angry, Sad at Airport Attack
Gov. Chris Sununu and the New Hampshire congressional delegation have responded with both anger and sadness to the terrorist attack at the Kabul airport which took the lives of at least 13 U.S. Marines and 60 Afghans on Thursday.
At least 18 other service U.S. members were injured in the attacks, but officials warn those numbers may grow as they continue to assess the scene.
Additionally, the Afghan health ministry says at least 140 persons were wounded in the coordinated attacks.
"The news of today’s horrific terrorist attack in Kabul is heartbreaking. Valerie and I join with all Granite Staters in praying for those who lost their lives serving our country and their families. Words cannot express how grateful we are for their service and sacrifice," Sununu said in a message on his Twitter account.
"My thoughts are w/loved ones of U.S. service members killed in the devastating terror attacks in Kabul & all those affected. I’m monitoring developments & my office is in contact w/ Depts of Defense & State. The admin should use all resources to keep U.S. personnel & allies safe," wrote Sen. Jeanne Shaheen on her Twitter account.
"My heart breaks for the loved ones of the U.S. service members and others who were murdered in this horrific terror attack. I continue to urge the administration to do everything in its power to secure the airport and evacuate every American as well as our partners who stood side-by-side with our troops to combat terrorism. We must complete this mission, regardless of any arbitrary deadlines," Sen. Maggie Hassan said.
"The death of American service members in Kabul is a tragedy. My thoughts are with their families and loved ones, and we can never forget their sacrifice for our country and fellow Americans who were in harm’s way," Rep. Chris Pappas wrote. "I continue to closely monitor the situation in Afghanistan. I urge the administration to hold those responsible for this despicable attack accountable while dedicating every resource to continuing the evacuation of Americans and our allies."
Note: this story was updated to reflect that 13 U.S. Marines were killed.
Contact reporter Dan Alexander at Dan.Alexander@townsquaremedia.com or via Twitter @DanAlexanderNH