Suicide bombers carried out nearly simultaneous attacks on three U.S.-based hotels, in the Jordanian capital Wednesday night.
The blast killed at least 57 people and wounding at least 115 in an al-Qaida-style assault on the Arab kingdom with close ties to the United States and a border with Iraq.
Deputy Prime Minister Marwan Muasher said most of those killed were Jordanians but did not give a full breakup of nationalities.
The explosions rocked the Grand Hyatt, Radisson SAS and Days Inn hotels just before 9 p.m. (1900 GMT).
Muasher said there was no claim of responsibility but that Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, the Jordanian-born leader of al-Qaida in Iraq, was a ``prime suspect.''
The American, Israeli and British embassies had no immediate reports of casualties among their citizens.
Statement on Grand Hyatt Amman
We can confirm that there has been an explosion in the lobby of Grand Hyatt Amman. The hotel has been completely evacuated and local police have cordoned off the area and assumed control of the hotel. We cannot confirm the number of injuries at this time in what appears to be a tragic situation. The hotel's management team is working to assure the safety and relocation of Hyatt guests who have been evacuated and completely cooperating with the local investigative and law enforcement officials.
Statement Concerning Explosion at Radisson SAS Hotel Amman, Jordan
Rezidor SAS Hospitality, the partner of Radisson Hotels & Resorts in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, confirms that an explosion took place on Wednesday evening in the Radisson SAS Hotel Amman in Jordan. This was one of a series of explosions in the city. The extent of the damage and the number of injuries cannot be confirmed at this time. The hotel is working closely with local authorities and emergency workers to provide aid to those who were injured. Guests have been evacuated and the hotel is working to insure their safety and security. We are saddened by this tragic incident and are mobilizing to clarify the facts and assist those who have been impacted.
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