US redesignates Uzbek Islamic group as terror organization

0 Comments | AFP, September, 2004

WASHINGTON (AFP) — The United States redesignated the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan (IMU), one of the most radical militant groups in Central Asia, as a foreign terrorist organization.

It had claimed responsibility for July's deadly suicide bombings against the US and Israeli embassies, as well as Uzbekistan's prosecutor general's office in Tashkent.

A US State Department statement said effective Friday, Secretary of State Colin Powell "hereby redesignates that organization as a Foreign Terrorist Organization pursuant to" the Immigration and Nationality Act.

The decision was based on a review of IMU's activities and after consultations with other US officials, it said.

The movement has claimed numerous kidnappings and armed incursions and was placed...