DINUBA, California (BNO NEWS) — A NATO-led ISAF service member was killed by an improvised explosive device (IED) in southern Afghanistan on Saturday, the alliance said in a statement.

Details on the incident and the nationality of the service member were not immediately released as it is ISAF policy to not release the nationality of any casualty before the national authorities do so. However, next of kin has been informed.

“I present my most sincere condolences to the loved ones and comrades of this courageous soldier. His sacrifice was not made in vain,” said Brigadier-General Eric Tremblay, who is a spokesman for the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF).

“The insurgents are unable to meet ISAF and its Afghan security partners head on so they resort to asymmetrical tactics and terrorism. Despite these vile attacks, we will pursue our mission and continue to protect Afghans from insurgent violence and intimidation,” he added.