TEHRAN (FNA)- The Iranian foreign ministry on Tuesday strongly deplored the suicide attacks against a military college in the Pakistani city of Quetta which killed nearly 60 people.

Foreign Ministry Spokesman Bahram Qassemi extended his condolences to the friendly and brotherly Pakistani government and nation as well as the bereaved families, and called for serious collective confrontation against the ominous phenomenon of terrorism.

"The Islamic Republic of Iran has always stressed the need for cooperation in fighting against the terrorist groups and underlines its preparedness to help the Pakistani government to this end," he added.

At least 59 cadets and guards were killed after militants attacked a police college in Quetta.

Three militants wearing suicide bomb vests entered the college late on Monday, reportedly taking hostages.

A major security operation lasted for hours and all attackers were killed.

No group has said it carried out the assault, but Quetta has seen similar attacks by separatists and Islamist militants in recent years.

Hundreds of trainees were evacuated from Balochistan Police College as troops arrived to repel the militants. Local media reported at least three explosions at the scene.

By Fars News Agency