WASHINGTON [MENL] -- The United States has opened an office to track those who kill Americans abroad in what was deemed terrorist attacks.

The Justice Department has established the Office of Justice for Victims of Overseas Terrorism to monitor investigations and prosecute killers of Americans in terrorist strikes. The office was part of a bill passed by Congress in 2004 to pursue terrorists who target Americans.

A department statement said the office would be responsible for "monitoring the investigation and prosecution of terrorists who attack Americans abroad." The office would work with other agencies in the Justice Department as well as the FBI.

Officials said the office would compile data on terrorist attacks and respond to congressional inquiries regarding the killing of Americans overseas. The office would also file reports with Congress regarding prosecution of alleged terrorists.