    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2006, Book I)]
    [February 22, 2006]
    [Page 329]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Bombing of the Golden Mosque in Samarra, Iraq
    February 22, 2006

        On behalf of the American people, I extend my deepest condolences to
    the people of Iraq for the brutal bombing of the Golden Mosque in
    Samarra, one of the holiest sites in Shi'a Islam. The terrorists in Iraq
    have again proven that they are enemies of all faiths and of all
    humanity. The world must stand united against them and steadfast behind
    the people of Iraq. This senseless crime is an affront to people of
    faith throughout the world. The United States condemns this cowardly act
    in the strongest possible terms.
        I ask all Iraqis to exercise restraint in the wake of this tragedy
    and to pursue justice in accordance with the laws and Constitution of
    Iraq. Violence will only contribute to what the terrorists sought to
    achieve by this act.
        The United States stands ready to do all in its power to assist the
    Government of Iraq to identify and bring to justice those responsible
    for this terrible act. And the American people pledge to work with the
    people of Iraq to rebuild and restore the Golden Mosque of Samarra to
    its former glory.