ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Sunday expressed solidarity with the people of Egypt after a militant attack killed 11 Egyptian security personnel in Sinai, the Pakistani foreign office said.
Egypt’s military said Saturday at least 11 troops, including an officer, had been killed in the attack in the restive northern part of the Sinai Peninsula.
The military said in a statement that the militants attacked a water pumping station Saturday east of the Suez Canal. It did not give further details on the location.
At least five other troops were wounded and the militants being chased in an isolated area in Sinai, the statement said.
"The government and people of Pakistan extend deepest condolences to the bereaved families. We pray for the early recovery of those injured in the attack," the Pakistani foreign office said in a statement.
"Pakistan condemns terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. We also reaffirm our solidarity with the brotherly people of Egypt."
Saturday's ambush was one of the deadliest attacks against Egyptian security forces in recent years. No group has yet claimed responsibility for the attack.
Last week, suspected militants blew up a natural gas pipeline in Northern Sinai’s town of Bir El-Abd, causing a fire but no casualties.
Egypt has been battling a Daesh-led insurgency in the Sinai since 2013. The militants have carried out scores of attacks, mainly targeting security forces and Christians.
