US President Barack Obama Briefed, Lawmakers React to Dhaka Attack

• At least five people were killed in a terrorist attack in Dhaka, Bangladesh
  
• Six-ten terrorists stormed the Holey Artisan Bakery in Dhaka on Friday night
  
• Two policeman, two foreign diplomats confirmed dead, 30 others injured
  
• Six terrorists reportedly killed in a gun battle with Bangladesh police
  
• Of 20 hostages, 18 rescued, reports Dhaka Tribune
  
• ISIS claims responsibility for the attack
  

US President Barack Obama has been briefed by counter-terrorism officials on an ISIS terror attack at an upmarket restaurant in Bangladesh where several foreigners have been taken hostage, a White House official said.

Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism Lisa Monaco has briefed the President on the ongoing situation in Dhaka, Bangladesh. The President asked to be kept informed as the situation develops.

White House official

The State Department Spokesman John Kirby said that the US embassy in Dhaka is monitoring the situation.

I can tell you as of now that they have accounted for 100 percent of the American citizens working under the chief of mission authority. They’re also obviously in constant touch with authorities as they continue to work through this very fluid, very live situation right now.

Closely following the situation in Bangladesh. Yet another sign that we must all be vigilant, especially during this holiday weekend.

— Sen Dianne Feinstein (@SenFeinstein) July 1, 2016

I am monitoring the situation in Bangladesh and I pray for the victims. #Bangladesh

— Richard Burr (@SenatorBurr) July 1, 2016

10 people were killed & 55 wounded in shootings over 4th of July wknd last year. We need to pass meaningful gun reform to protect our kids.

— Mark Kirk (@SenatorKirk) July 2, 2016

Lax gun laws or terrorism? ISIS takes claim for shooting attack in Bangladesh's capital #Bangladesh. https://t.co/FFC1qyPBMX

— JohnCornyn (@JohnCornyn) July 1, 2016

From Bangladesh to Turkey to Orlando, we are at war with ISIS. My prayers are with those affected by this latest act of evil in Dhaka.

— Congressman Ken Buck (@RepKenBuck) July 1, 2016

Terrorist attacks in #Bangladesh underscore the need to take the fight to #ISIS. How long before we see that our current strategy is inept?

— Mark Meadows (@RepMarkMeadows) July 1, 2016

Devastated by the horrific attack in #Bangladesh. Praying for those killed & injured, as well as for the safety of the hostages.

— Rep. Joe Crowley (@repjoecrowley) July 1, 2016

We must step up efforts to stop ISIS from spreading fear & violence worldwide. We must stop the money that supports these acts of terror.

— Senator Bob Casey (@SenBobCasey) July 1, 2016

My sympathy to the people of Bangladesh. Terrorist will not win.

— Sheila Jackson Lee (@JacksonLeeTX18) July 1, 2016

Besides the US lawmakers, Italian Foreign Affairs Minister Paolo Gentiloni’s office also took cognisance of the situation.

Seguo momento per momento la situazione #Dakka. Ansia per gli italiani coinvolti, vicino alle famiglie

— Paolo Gentiloni (@PaoloGentiloni) July 1, 2016

Also Read: Dhaka Terror Attack: 13 People Rescued, Six Gunmen Killed