CAIRO: Islamic State claimed responsibility for a car bomb attack at the Italian consulate in central Cairo on Saturday, in an escalation of violence that suggests militants are opening a new front against foreigners in Egypt.
"Through God's blessing, Islamic State soldiers were able to detonate a parked car bomb carrying 450 kg of explosive material on the headquarters of the Italian consulate in central Cairo," the group said on a website that carries its statements.
"We recommend that Muslims stay clear of these security dens because they are legitimate targets for the mujahideen's strikes."
Until now, Islamic State supporters in Egypt had not set their sights on Western targets, focusing instead on security forces.
A health ministry spokesman said one Egyptian civilian was killed and 10 wounded. State news agency MENA separately said two policemen were among the wounded.
Reuters
