Denmark: Al Qaida likely behind blast in Pakistan

Islamabad: Denmark's intelligence service cast blame on Al Qaida for an attack near its embassy in Pakistan, saying the terror network or one of its affiliates was likely behind the car bomb that killed nine people.

No one had claimed responsibility by Tuesday, a day after the explosion, which came just weeks after the terrorist group threatened Denmark over caricatures of the Prophet Mohammad reprinted earlier this year in newspapers in that country.

The Danish Security and Intelligence Service, known as PET, said in a statement late on Monday that the embassy was probably the target.

A team of Pakistani investigators sifted through the rubble, and a Danish team was expected to join the search. Barricades blocked access to the area, home to several diplomatic buildings and residences.

Senior police officer Ahmed Latif said the attacker apparently used a fake diplomatic license plate to get the car near the embassy. Officials were trying to determine if the bomb was a suicide attack.

The explosion could heighten pressure on Pakistan to stop striking peace deals with militants in the border regions, where Al Qaida and Taliban fighters are believed to have found sanctuary.

Pakistan insists it is not talking to "terrorists" but rather militants willing to lay down their weapons. But the US has warned the deals could simply give militants time to rebuild strength.

Pakistani Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani said in a statement Monday the blast would "redouble our resolve" to "continue on our avowed path to fight terrorism and extremism." Interior Ministry chief Rehman Malik said the attack would not affect the peace talks.