Car bomb explodes outside French embassy in Tripoli; 2 guards, girl injured

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A car bomb exploded just outside the French embassy in Tripoli early Tuesday morning, injuring two French security guards and a local girl, officials said.

The blast was so powerful it blew the front wall off the embassy. Windows of nearby buildings in this upscale, largely residential neighborhood were also blown out.

Deputy Prime Minister Awad Barasi said a 13-year-old girl in a nearby house was injured in the attack and will be taken to Tunisia for treatment.

Barasi said he spoke with the French ambassador to Libya, who assured him he will not leave Tripoli.

A criminal investigation is under way to try to determine who was behind the attack, and why.

The French Foreign Ministry issued a statement condemning the attack.

"In conjunction with the Libyan authorities, our government departments will make every effort to ensure that all light be shed on the circumstances of this heinous act and its perpetrators quickly identified," the foreign ministry said.

The bombing stirred memories of another attack on a foreign office in Libya.

Category: AFRICA, Car bomb explodes outside French embassy in Tripoli; 2 guards, EUROPE, girl injured