US embassy attacked
2004-12-06 11:33
Jiddah - Attackers struck the U.S. consulate in this port city, with witnesses saying a car exploded in front of the compound and smoke was rising from the scene. It was not immediately clear if there were any casualties but witnesses reported ambulances rushing to the scene.
US embassy spokesperson Carol Kalin said there were no reports of American casualties.
"We can confirm there has been an attack on the consulate," Kalin said. "No reports of any American casualties. The incident is still in progress with Saudi emergency forces securing the compound."
One witness near the scene reported smoke rising from the area and said police were keeping cars and traffic from the area. Some witnesses told The Associated Press gunfire was heard just before the blast.
Security around the consulate has been extremely tight since last year's series of bombings against targets housing foreigners.
- AP