WASHINGTON, Dec. 25 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Barack Obama on Saturday strongly condemned "the outrageous terrorist attack" in Pakistan's northwest city of Khar, which claimed at least 42 lives.

"Killing innocent civilians outside a World Food Program distribution point is an affront to the people of Pakistan and to all humanity," the president said in a statement.

"The United States stands with the people of Pakistan in this difficult time, and will strongly support Pakistan's efforts to ensure greater peace, security and justice for its people," Obama said.

At least 42 people were killed and 72 others injured in a suicide blast that took place Saturday morning in front of a World Food Program office in Khar. The death toll could climb as many of the injured are in critical condition. No group has claimed responsibility for the blast.