Washington: The US State Department has responded to the explosion near Delhi's Red Fort, stating it is “closely monitoring the situation” and is “ready to provide consular assistance.”

In an exclusive statement to IANS, a State Department spokesperson said, “We are aware of the explosion near the Red Fort in Delhi. We are closely monitoring the situation and stand ready to provide consular assistance.”

Separately, the State Department’s Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs posted on X: “Our hearts are with those affected by the terrible explosion in New Delhi. We continue to closely monitor the situation. Our sincere condolences to the families who lost their loved ones. Praying for the speedy recovery of those injured.”

The powerful blast struck cars parked near Delhi’s Red Fort Metro Station on Monday evening, leaving at least nine people dead and a dozen others injured. Several nearby vehicles were set ablaze by the impact. The injured have been admitted to LNJP Hospital, where their conditions are under observation.

The Old Delhi neighbourhoods surrounding the Red Fort are among the most densely populated in the capital. Police, NIA, NSG and forensic teams arrived within minutes, and the area has been cordoned off. CCTV footage is being analysed to determine the cause of the explosion.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences and wished the injured a swift recovery. He also reviewed the situation with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who visited LNJP Hospital and requested a detailed report from security agencies.

In the aftermath, high alerts have been issued in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Mumbai. Security around crowded public spaces and religious sites has been strengthened, and patrolling has been intensified.

IANS