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Macedonian Press Agency - October 1, 1996

Archbishop Of America Spyridon
And Council Of Greeks Abroad Denounce Bombing At Phanar

New York, October 1 (M.P.A.)

The Archbishop of America Spyridon has called on the Turkish government for the immediate and exemplary punishment of those responsible of the bombing attack against the Ecumenical Patriarchate, while the President of the Council of Greeks Abroad of America Christos Tomaras has characterized the attack as cowardly and provocative.

Mr. Spyridon asked the United States President Bill Clinton to condemn the attack and asked the American political and religious leaders to also voice their indignation and to undertake action in protecting the Patriarchate from the continuous threats.

Mr. Tomaras stated that the event has provoked the ire of all Greeks living abroad, as well as to all of the Christian Orthodox community, and stated that the bombing is a serious illustration of inadequate security measures provided for the Patriarchate.

"The American SAE unequivocally condemns this latest and unprovoked act of violence and calls on the turkish state to protect the spiritual leadership of the world's over 300 million Orthodox," he stated and added that "the greek community will stand by the Patriarchate's side as always, pressuring the turkish side, as well as Greece's allies for its protection."

The organization Great Eastern Islamic Raiders Front (IBDA-C) has claimed responsibility for Sunday night's explosion.

According to the Turkish news agency Anadolu, the IBDA-C is an armed islamist organization that has claimed responsibility in the past for other church bombings and explosions in restaurants that serve alchoholic beverages.

[ Macedonian Press Agency - www.mpa.gr - October 1, 1996 ]