Obama, Brown condemn terror strike in Mumbai

Chicago/Washington/London, Nov.27 : US President-elect Barack Obama on Thursday condemned Wednesday's planned and synchronized terror strikes in Mumbai that claimed over a hundred lives and maimed another 200.

In statement released on his behalf by his Chief National Security spokesperson, Brooke Anderson, Obama said the United States must work to strengthen ties with India and other nations to "root out and destroy terrorist networks."

"These coordinated attacks on innocent civilians demonstrate the grave and urgent threat of terrorism," Obama said in a statement. he United States Government, according to The Times, also strongly condemned the terrorist attacks in Mumbai and said it is ready to support India.

"We strongly condemn the terrorist attacks that have taken place in Mumbai. Our sympathies go out to the families and friends of those killed and injured, and to the people of Mumbai," a U.S. State Department statement said.

"We are monitoring the situation very closely and stand ready to support the Indian authorities as they deal with this horrific series of attacks. At this point, we are unaware of any American casualties," the statement added.

With President Bush on his Thanksgiving retreat at Camp David, Obama's statement underlined the urgency with which he must take charge of a chaotic legacy.

British Prime Minister Gordon Brown described the attacks in Mumbai as "outrageous" and warned that such attacks will be met with a "vigorous response".

"I have sent a message to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh that the UK stands solidly with his government as they respond," he said, adding the UK is ready to offer all necessary help to India.

"Urgent action is underway to offer every possible protection to British citizens in the region," he said.

British Foreign Secretary David Miliband said the attacks were a reminder of the threat from violent extremists.

"I condemn these attacks unreservedly. Our thoughts are with the families and friends of those killed and injured. The UK and India will continue their joint efforts to counter the actions of terrorists," he said.

ANI