US condemns attack at Indian Air Force base

Washington, Jan 3 Strongly condemning the "heinous" terrorist attack on an Indian Air Force base at Pathankot, the US has reaffirmed its commitment to its strong partnership with the Indian government to combat terrorism.

It has also urged all countries in the region to work together to disrupt and dismantle terrorist networks and bring the perpetrators to justice.

"The United States strongly condemns the terrorist attack on an air force base in the Indian state of Punjab on January 2," US State Department spokesperson John Kirby said in a press statement.

"We extend our condolences to the victims and their families," he said. "The United States is committed to our strong partnership with the Indian government to combat terrorism."

"We urge all countries in the region to work together to disrupt and dismantle terrorist networks and to bring to justice the perpetrators of this heinous act," Kirby said.

At least four terrorists, suspected to be from Pakistan, were killed in a gunfight that lasted over 15 hours after they breached a high-security perimeter and entered the IAF base in northern Punjab early Saturday to carry out the attack.