Messages of sympathy and condemnation from world leaders have streamed in overnight in reaction to the horrific Christchurch mosque terrorist attack.
The world has reacted to the Christchurch mosque terrorist attack that has claimed the lives of 51 people and wounding many more, many of whom are still receiving treatment at the Christchurch hospital.
On Friday, Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern described the attack on Christchurch as one of “one of New Zealand’s darkest days.” She also encouraged New Zealanders to come together in support during this devastating time.
In London, vigils have been held at various mosques as well as one at Hyde Park at which may Kiwi expats gathered to show their support for the victims in Christchurch. Flowers were also laid outside New Zealand House in London.
The Queen said she was “deeply saddened” by the shootings, and Prime Minister Theresa May called it “sickening”.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex and Duke and Duchess of Cambridge issued a joint statement;
“Our hearts go out to the families and friends of the people who lost their lives in the devastating attack in Christchurch.
“We have all been fortunate to spend time in Christchurch and have felt the warm, open-hearted and generous spirit that is core to its remarkable people.
“No person should ever have to fear attending a sacred place of worship,” the statement reads.
Over the Tasman, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said that he is horrified by the attack on Christchurch and that he strongly condemns the “right-wing terrorist attack”.
I condemn the violent, extremist, right-wing terrorist attack that has stolen the lives of so many innocent New Zealanders as they went about their peaceful practice of worship at their mosques in Christchurch today.
— Scott Morrison (@ScottMorrisonMP) March 15, 2019
Former New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clarke said that her “heart goes out to all bereaved families & the Muslim community.”
Very shocked to hear of shooting & many deaths & injuries at Christchurch NZ mosque 🕌 where people were at Friday prayers. My heart goes out to all bereaved families & the Muslim community. This is a heinous hate crime. RIP. https://t.co/JtSVJeKI98
— Helen Clark (@HelenClarkNZ) March 15, 2019
US President Donald Trump tweeted that he sent his “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 US stands by New Zealand for anything we can do. God bless all!”