8 Killed in Indonesia Suicide Bombings

JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP) - There have been no claims of responsibility for deadly bombings at two American luxury hotels in Indonesia’s capital, but analysts say it’s likely the suicide attackers came from Jemaah Islamiyah, which has links to al-Qaida. Investigators say the bombings killed eight people and wounded more than 50. At least 18 foreigners are believed to be among the dead and injured. Indonesia’s president is blaming a “terrorist group” and is vowing to arrest those responsible. He also suggested the bombings, the first terror attacks in Indonesia in four years, are related to next week’s national election. Police say the attackers acted as guests at the hotels before detonating their explosives. They say the attack on the J.W. Marriott was carried out on the 18th floor. That blast went off first, followed moments later by a bombing at the Ritz-Carlton.

A U.S. official says at least eight Americans were wounded. The official said the count was still preliminary and could not say how many Americans were injured at each of the targeted hotels. President Barack Obama is condemning the bombings. Obama says the U.S. government “stands ready” as a friend and
partner to help its ally in the effort to combat extremism and to recover from these “outrageous attacks.“ The president also extended his condolences to all the victims and their loved ones.