The UN has strongly condemned the terrorist attacks in Kabul that killed at least 26 people and asked for stringent punishment for the perpetrators of the dastardly act. Noting that the Taliban has claimed responsibility, for the attacks, the Security Council on Wednesday underlined the need to bring "the perpetrators, organisers, financiers and sponsors of these reprehensible acts of terrorism" to justice. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said, he was appalled by the attacks against people and institutions that are committed to building a better future for Afghanistan. "This horrendous crime was committed against innocent civilians with total disrespect for human life and dignity. The UN stands shoulder to shoulder with the Afghan people and Government in condemning today's attacks," he added. The 15-member body reiterated its determination to combat all forms of terrorism, asserting that "no terrorist act can reverse the path towards peace, democracy and reconstruction in Afghanistan, which is supported by the people and the Government of Afghanistan and the international community." "The members of the Security Council expressed concern at the threats posed by the Taliban, Al-Qaida, illegal armed groups, criminals and those involved in the illicit narcotics production and trafficking, to the local population, national security forces, international military and international assistance efforts in Afghanistan," Council president for February, Ambassador Yukio Takasu of Japan, said. Ban's top envoy to the country also highlighted the fact that the attacks targeted those working to build a better Afghanistan. "The civil servants that were killed and wounded were serving the people of Afghanistan. Other civilians have also lost their lives. My thoughts are with their families," said Special Representative Kai Eide, who is also head of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA).