Several killed in protest over Koran burning

24/02/12 16:04 CET

world news

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In Afghanistan, at least 12 people have been killed in the bloodiest day of protests over the burning of Korans at a NATO military base.

Friday is a holy day and the country’s official weekly holiday, bringing large crowds onto the streets.

In the capital, Kabul, police fired into the air to disperse a throng of men who chanted “Death to America!”

The US President Barack Obama has sent a letter of apology to his Afghan counterpart Hamid Karzai for the unintentional burning of the Muslim holy book at Bagram air base.

But the discovery by Afghan rubbish collectors has been leapt on by the Taliban which has urged Afghans to capture, beat or kill alliance soldiers.

It is the fourth day of protests and by far the worst. Most Westerners have been confined to their heavily fortified compounds or diplomatic buildings.

Demonstrations have also spread to Pakistan.
Muslims believe the Koran to be the literal word of God and desecration is considered one of the worst forms of blasphemy.

More about: Afghanistan, Islam, Protest, USA

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