In Afghanistan, a roadside bomb attack killed at least 12 people. The attack took place in Herat, an important city in western Afghanistan.

Authorities say the remote-controlled bomb may have been targeting a local police chief. The bomb went off during rush hour near a blood bank. Police say the attack marks the third attempt at the district police chief, who was injured on Monday's attack. Herat, one of Afghanistan's largest cities, has been safer compared to the rest of the country.

It has also seen more economic activity because of strong trade links with neighboring Iran and Turkmenistan.

(CCTV August 4, 2009)