25/04/2006

Tourists killed in Egypt bomb blasts

At least 23 people people have been killed in three bomb explosions at the Egyptian tourist resort of Dahab.

Three of those who were killed were believed to be foreigners. According to reports, a German boy is believed to be among the dead, along with a Russian tourist.

More than 60 people were also injured in the blasts, including around 20 foreigners. Two Britons were among the wounded.

One of the Britons is believed to be the cousin of the Lord Chamberlain, the head of the Queen's household.

Both Britons are being treated at a hospital in Cairo.

The British ambassador, Sir Derek Plumley, has travelled to Dahab and visited the two injured Britons in hospital. A team from the British embassy in Cairo has also travelled to Dahab.

Two British Red Cross delegates are also understood to be travelling to Egypt.

The three blasts occurred in a market and restaurant area of the Sinai peninsula resort, which is popular with Western tourists, around 1900 local time (1800 BST).

No-one has claimed responsibility for the attacks so far. However, the main suspects are believed to be a local group, inspired by al-Qaeda, who were behind previous attacks in Egypt.

Other resorts in the Sinai peninsula have previously been targeted in bomb attacks. Last July, sixty-four people, including eleven Britons, were killed when three bombs exploded at the Sharm el Sheikh resort.

Thirty-four people died in a series of bomb explosions at a hotel in Taba in October 2004.

Egyptian president Hosni Mubarak described the attacks as a "wicked terrorist attack".

Foreign Secretary Jack Straw condemned the attacks, calling the bombings "callous".

Prime Minister Tony Blair has also sent his condolences to the familes of those killed and injured in the explosions. Speaking to journalists today, he said: "What is important is that the whole world stands united against the terrorists that want to kill innocent people and prevent countries like Egypt making the progress they and their peoples want to see.

"I think that very, very strong message from the international community has got to go out."

Anyone in the UK concerned about relatives can contact the Foreign Office emergency number on: 0207 0080 000.

(KMcA/CD)

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