WASHINGTON - The US government on Tuesday condemned a bomb attack on the French embassy in Libya, calling it a "direct attack on all Libyans".

"The United States condemns today's attack on the French embassy in Tripoli, Libya, and extends its condolences to all those who were hurt as a result of the bombing," said State Department spokesman Patrick Ventrell at a briefing here.

The French embassy in the Libyan capital was hit by a car bomb early on Tuesday. The attack injured two French guards and caused heavy damage to the building.

"France is one of our closest allies in promoting peace and development around the world," Ventrell told reporters, adding that the bombing was a "direct attack on all Libyans" who fought hard for a future with security and prosperity.

He also called on the Libyan government to continue to strengthen security across the North African country and to bring the perpetrators to justice.