49 people have died and dozens more are being treated for injuries] following the shooting at Linwood Masjid Mosque and Masjid Al Noor Mosque.
Heads of state from Donald Trump to Angela Merkel expressed solidarity, while the Pakistan prime minister and other Muslim leaders also expressed anger at what they described as the demonisation of Muslims that fuelled such attacks.
WEB DESK
INDIAN Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed his deep shock and sadness at the loss of scores of innocent lives in the heinous terrorist attack at the places of worship in Christchurch, New Zealand Friday.
In a letter to Prime Minister of New Zealand, Ms Jacinda Ardern, Mr Modi stressed India’s strong condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and of all those who support such acts of violence.
He stressed that hatred and violence have no place in diverse and democratic societies. Mr Modi expressed his deepest condolences to the families bereaved in this dastardly attack. He offered heartfelt prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured and underscored India’s solidarity with the friendly people of New Zealand at this difficult time.
World leaders have expressed their disgust at the deadly killings. Condemning the attacks, US President Trump in a tweet termed it as a “horrible massacre” and offered US assistance to its ally. He said his warmest sympathy and best wishes goes out to the people of New Zealand.
My warmest sympathy and best wishes goes out to the people of New Zealand after the horrible massacre in the Mosques. 49 innocent people have so senselessly died, with so many more seriously injured. The U.S. stands by New Zealand for anything we can do. God bless all!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 15, 2019
UK Prime Minister Theresa May offering her deepest condolences, in a tweet said, her thoughts are with all of those affected by this sickening act of violence.
German Chancellor Angela Merkel said she mourned with New Zealanders for their fellow citizens who were attacked and murdered out of racist hatred while peacefully praying in their mosques.
French President Emmanuel Macron called it an “odious attack” and said France stood “against any form of extremism”.
Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan wrote on social media: “I blame these increasing terror attacks on the current Islamophobia post-9/11 (where) 1.3 billion Muslims have collectively been blamed for any act of terror.”
The Queen said she was saddened by the appalling events: “I also pay tribute to the emergency services and volunteers who are providing support to those who have been injured. At this tragic time, my thoughts and prayers are with all New Zealanders.”
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge said their hearts went out to families and friends of the people who lost their lives.
“This senseless attack is an affront to the people of Christchurch and New Zealand, and the broader Muslim community. It is a horrifying assault on a way of life that embodies decency, community, and friendship.
Pope Francis deplored the “senseless acts of violence”. Francis said he “assures all New Zealanders, and in particular the Muslim community, of his heartfelt solidarity in the wake of these attacks”.
Raza Academy Mumbai condemn terror attacks on New Zealand Mosques