Israel joins int'l community in condemning Marawi attack

Israel on Monday condemned Sunday's attack that killed at least four people and wounded dozens of other Catholic worshippers in Marawi City, calling it a "despicable act" against Filipinos.

"Our hearts go out to the victims and their bereaved families, and we extend our deepest condolences and sympathy during this difficult time. We also pray for the swift recovery of those injured," its embassy in Manila said Monday.

"Israel is in solidarity with the Philippine government and Filipino people in face of this despicable terrorist attack."

The suspected bomb, which security authorities said was made from a mortar round, exploded and hit students and teachers who attended a Mass in a gymnasium at Mindanao State University in southern Marawi city.

"Terrorism is a global threat that needs collective unity among nations to safeguard the well-being of all people and communities," Israel said.

The United States, Japan, Canada, Australia, France, and the European Union earlier deplored the bombing that sparked heightened security alert, including in capital Manila.

Also on Monday, the Philippine military said it is validating the claim of Islamic State that it was  responsible for Sunday's fatal bombing of the Dimaporo Gymnasium in  Mindanao State University (MSU) in Marawi City.

Aside from Islamic State, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) public affairs office chief Colonel Xerxes Trinidad said the military is also checking the possible involvement of Dawlah Islamiyah - Maute Group in the attack.

“The AFP is validating the claims made by ISIS in the recent news reports as well as the involvement of the DI-Maute Group in this heinous acts of terror,” Trinidad told reporters.

The military and the police are looking at the bomb signature used to determine what group is responsible for the explosion, according to Trinidad.

“The AFP is on heightened alert to ensure the safety of the public and that the perpetrators responsible will be apprehended and/or neutralized,” he said. — Michaela Del Callar/RSJ, GMA Integrated News