U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell has condemned Saturday's deadly grenade attacks on an opposition rally in Bangladesh that left at least 19 people dead.
Secretary Powell issued a statement Sunday, condemning in "the strongest terms," the attacks on the Awami League, Bangladesh's main opposition movement.
Mr. Powell also urged all parties in the South Asian country to act with restraint and work together to reduce tensions.
Meanwhile, the Awami League has called for a two-day nationwide general strike, beginning Tuesday, to protest the attacks.
The trouble happened as Awami League leader Sheikh Hasina addressed supporters outside party headquarters in Dhaka.
She escaped serious injury. The government denies any involvement and promises a thorough investigation.
Meanwhile, violence erupted across Bangladesh Sunday in the aftermath of the attacks. Schools and businesses in Dhaka also were closed for fears of more unrest.