U.S. Consulate in Karachi reopens

KARACHI, Pakistan -- The acting U.S. ambassador offered condolences Tuesday to the families of 12 Pakistanis killed last week when a car bomb exploded in front of the American consulate in Karachi.

U.S. Charge d'Affaires Nancy J. Powell spoke as the consulate reopened for business Tuesday under visibly tightened security.

Rounds of concertina wire encircled the gaping hole blown out of the consulate's perimeter wall. Camouflaged security guards carrying assault rifles stood on watch at the grounds. U.S. officials said from now on only American citizens would be allowed to enter the premises.

"It is with a heavy heart that I've come to Karachi today," Powell said.