Reactions to the 2014 Peshawar school massacre

Last updated

The response to the 2014 Peshawar school massacre, that occurred on 16 December 2014 was widespread. The attack occurred at the Army Public School in the Pakistani city of Peshawar, killed a total of 145 people which included 132 school children and ten school staff members.

Contents

The attack prompted a massive response both on local and international level. Pakistani reaction included both strong condemnations and promises of retaliation against the perpetrators. International reaction was swift and widespread, with many countries condemning the attack and expressing their condolences to the victims.

Pakistan

Government

I have decided to proceed to Peshawar and I will supervise the operation myself. These are my children and it is my loss. [1]

Nawaz Sharif, Prime Minister of Pakistan

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif had condemned the attack, calling it a national tragedy. Nawaz Sharif left for Peshawar to monitor the operation [2] [3] and announced a three-day mourning period during which the National Flag would fly at half mast. [4] On 17 December 2014, Sharif approved paperwork to remove a moratorium on the death penalty in terror-related cases. [5]

President Mamnoon Hussain condemned the attack, saying "such cowardly attacks cannot deter the morale and resolve of the Nation." [6]

Chief Minister of the Province of Punjab, Shehbaz Sharif, condemned the attack, saying "The incident of terrorism is highly condemnable and 180 million people of the country are shocked and grieved over the tragic incident." The Chief Minister appealed to Imran Khan, Maulana Fazal-ur-Rehman, Altaf Hussain, Asfandyar Wali Khan, Mahmood Khan Achakzai, Maulana Samiul Haq, Siraj Ul Haq, leaders of all political and religious parties and civil society to be united for the sake of Pakistan. [7]

Political entities

Major political entities denounced the attack and heavily condemned the attack on innocent children, calling for a strong reaction against militants. [8]

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf leader Imran Khan condemned the attack and announced the end of the protest Azadi March. [9]

Muttahida Qaumi Movement leader Altaf Hussain, Jamiat Ulema e Islam leader Maulana Fazal-ur-Rehman, Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan leader Siraj-ul-Haq Khan, Pakistan Awami Tehrik leader Tahirul Qadri condemned the attack. [2]

Religious entities

Abdul Aziz Ghazi, the head cleric of Lal Masjid in Islamabad received huge backlash after he refused to condemn the attack. A large number of protesters gathered outside the mosque demanding his arrest. Police were deployed outside the mosque to prevent clashes. In reaction, the mosque management registered a FIR against protesters after which police made some arrests. [10] [11] On 21 December, a FIR was launched against Abdul Aziz. [12]

The vice chancellor of Darul Uloom Deoband issued a statement condemning the attack on APS Peshawar. He stated that it is totally un-Islamic. [13]

Islamic scholar Maulana Tariq Jameel condemned the attack, saying "the attack against innocent people is barbaric and must be condemned in no uncertain terms". [14]

Others

Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai condemned the attack, saying in a statement: "I am heartbroken by this senseless and cold-blooded act of terror in Peshawar that is unfolding before us". [15] Her father, Ziauddin Yousafzai, said his "heart is bleeding" and his family in "traumatized" over Peshawar school massacre. [16]

Queen Elizabeth II condemned the Peshawar attack saying "deepest sympathies from me and from those of the people of United Kingdom to all those affected by the tragic event in Peshawar." [17]

International reactions

International reaction for the attack was widespread, with many countries and international organisations condemning the attack and expressing their condolences to the families of victims. Many important personalities around the world also condemned the attack.

Supranational

Flag of Europe.svg European UnionFederica Mogherini the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy in a statement condemned the attack saying "I wish to express my heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and my support to the people and the authorities of Pakistan on this tragic day."

Flag of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf.svg Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf — Secretary general Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, on behalf of the GCC states, strongly condemned the attack saying that its perpetrators "were stripped out of all human sentiments" and expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and the Pakistani Government wishing the injured a speedy recovery. [18]

OIC Logo since 2011.svg Organisation of Islamic Cooperation — Secretary General Iyad bin Amin Madani issued a press release condemning the attack calling it "horrific and senseless terrorist attack". Madani offered solidarity and condolences to the Government and people of Pakistan. He said that "the OIC’s principled position denouncing all acts of terrorism no matter what the justifications are." [19]

Flag of the United Nations.svg United Nations — Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon condemned the attack saying "An act of horror and rank cowardice to attack defenceless children while they learn. No cause can justify such brutality. No grievance can excuse such horror. Getting an education is every child's right. Going to school should not have to be an act of bravery." [20] United Nations representative in Pakistan Timo Pakkala in a statement said it is "appalled by this act of cruelty and brutality. Attacking children and children’s education is a disregard of the most fundamental principles of humanity and we reaffirm our strongest commitment to protecting children’s rights." [21] Prince Zeid bin Ra'ad United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights said "Nowhere in the world should it be an act of bravery for a child to attend school. Yet, in parts of Pakistan, Afghanistan and Nigeria simply showing up at school takes tremendous courage and determination. In recent years, my staff have been receiving increasing frequent reports in these three countries of schools being destroyed or closed because of militants' threats, and of schoolchildren – especially girls – being kidnapped, shot, attacked with acid or poisoned by groups whose ideology bears no resemblance to any religion or any cultural norm." [22]

State governments

Asia

Flag of Afghanistan (2013-2021).svg  Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani condemned the attack and said "The killing of innocent children is contrary to Islam." [23] "We share the pains and sufferings of Pakistan's people, and condemn in strongest possible terms this terrorist, brutal, non-Islamic and inhuman act." Ghani said over telephonic conversation with Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. [24]

Flag of Azerbaijan.svg  Azerbaijan Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a press statement condemned the attack saying "Azerbaijan expressed its heartfelt condolences and sympathy to the bereaved families and the brotherly people of Pakistan and wished the many injured a speedy recovery. Azerbaijan, as a victim of terrorism, condemns terrorism in all forms and reiterates that there is no justification for terrorism at all." [25] Azerbaijani Ambassador to Pakistan Dakshin Shikarov said "More than hundred Innocent children and teachers became the victims of this brutal act. We share the pain of those who lost their beloveds and express our deepest condolences. We pray to Allah Almighty to rest the departed souls in eternal peace. Aamin." [26]

Flag of Bahrain.svg  Bahrain Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a press release to condemn the attack. "Kingdom of Bahrain affirmed full support to Pakistan in confronting and defeating terrorist groups, and offered condolences to the Pakistani Government, people and relatives of the victims of the barbaric act." the press release said. [27]

Flag of Bangladesh.svg  Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in a statement said "People across the world are stunned and shocked by this barbaric and heinous massacre." [28]

Flag of Brunei.svg  Brunei — The people of Brunei have express their condolences with the Pakistan High Commission in the country organised a Qur'an recital and prayers for the victims along with a three days mourning. [29]

Flag of the People's Republic of China.svg  China — Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang in a statement said "We are deeply shocked and grieved by the attack and condemn in the strongest terms the terrorists. China will continue to firmly support the unremitting Pakistani efforts to fight terrorism, safeguard national stability and save people's lives." [30] Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang both sent separate messages of condolences to the Pakistani leaders. President Xi said that he was shocked to learn about the serious terrorist attack. On behalf of the Chinese government and people and in his own name, Xi deeply mourned the victims and conveyed heartfelt sympathy to the injured and the bereaved families. Both messages stressed that the Chinese side opposes all forms of terrorism and strongly condemns the inhumane terrorist attack, that the thoughts of the Chinese people are with the Pakistani people, and that China firmly supports the counter-terrorism efforts by the Pakistani Government. [31] China's Ambassador to Pakistan Sun Weidong condemned the attack and reiterated "Chinese cooperation and firm support for eliminating the menace of terrorism from the country." [32] The ambassador also presented the Special Assistant to the Prime Minister with condolence letters from President Xi, Premier Li and Foreign Minister Wang Yi to their respective Pakistani counterparts. Ambassador Sun also presented a cheque of $50,000 for the victims of the attack, on behalf of the Chinese Embassy in Islamabad. [33] China, as part of the rehabilitation programme, later invited school students to participate in a recreational tour to China. [34]

Flag of Cyprus.svg  Cyprus – The Foreign Ministry condemned the attack, issued a statement quoting the Foreign Minister which reads "We are shocked at the heinous terrorist attack on a public school in Peshawar of Pakistan that resulted in the deaths of dozens of innocent children. we strongly condemn inhumane attacks on innocent students and educators and we express our deep condolences to the families of the victims and our support for the people and the Government of Pakistan." [35]

Flag of India.svg  India — In the aftermath of the attack, there was an outpouring of solidarity in India with the hashtag #IndiaWithPakistan trending on Twitter. [36] [37]

  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the attack. "It is a senseless act of unspeakable brutality that has claimed lives of the most innocent of human beings| young children in their school." Modi said on his Twitter account. "My heart goes out to everyone who lost their loved ones today. We share their pain & offer our deepest condolences." [38]
  • President Pranab Mukherjee in a message said "Such heinous acts are against all tenets of humanity. They are nothing but a manifestation of the extreme evil that terrorists are capable of. The world community must unite and redouble efforts to root out terrors from every country and society." [39]
  • Minister for Home Affairs Rajnath Singh issued a statement to express his condolence to the families and said "I strongly condemn the terrorist attack on a school at Peshawar (Pakistan). This dastardly and inhuman attack exposes the real face of terrorism. My heart goes out to the families of those children who were killed by the terrorists in Peshawar." [40]
  • Indian Foreign Ministry spokesman Syed Akbaruddin tweeted, "We condemn the horrific attack on innocent school children in Peshawar. Our hearts go out to the grief stricken families of the innocent children killed & injured in this barbaric attack in Peshawar. Feeling of deep revulsion & horror about this terror attack against innocent children." [41]
  • Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah in a tweet said "Inhuman and "barbaric words were not enough to describe the perpetrators. What terrible, heart breaking images of the attack in #Peshawar. Inhuman and barbaric don't even begin to describe the perpetrators." [42]
  • Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi commented "We stand united with the people of Pakistan in their resolve to fight the menace of terrorism." [43]
  • Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar, Chief Ministers of Madhya Pradesh Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Rajasthan Vasundhara Raje and Gujarat Anandiben Patel also condemned the attack and offered condolences. [44] Lok Sabha, the lower house of Indian parliament, [45] as well schools across India observed a two-minute silence and held special prayers to remember the victims. [46] The hashtag #IndiaWithPakistan was trending on Twitter following the attack. [47] [48]

Flag of Indonesia.svg  Indonesia Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a statement called the attack "an inhuman act" that could not be tolerated for any reason and offered condolences and on behalf of the Indonesian government expressed its support and solidarity for the people and Government of Pakistan. [49]

Flag of Iran.svg  Iran — President Hassan Rouhani condemned the attack and sent condolences to families of victims. [50] Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Marziyeh Afkham in a press conference said "This is a totally un-Islamic and inhumane action," adding that terrorism, extremism and putting innocent people's lives at risk in any form and with any purpose are reprehensible. Afkham further said cooperation among the regional countries and the world community is necessary in order to fight terrorism and extremism. [51]

Flag of Japan.svg  Japan Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga on behalf of Japanese government condemned the attack and called it "unforgivable". "We are in deep shock and sorrow. Our country strongly condemns any form of terrorism, and this one is especially unforgivable, as it targeted students who hold the future in their hands. " He said. [52]

Flag of Jordan.svg  Jordan Queen Rania expressed her grief over attack saying "Till when will innocent children pay the horrific price of extremism." [53] The Queen later also published a piece dedicated to the victims on her Huffington Post blog. [54] The State Minister for Media Affairs, Mohammad al-Momani, offered the Jordanian people's heartfelt condolences to the people of Pakistan and described the attack as horrendous and criminal act that has nothing to do with Islam. He further said Jordan will always stand against and continue its fight against terrorism and those who target civilians. [55] King Abdullah II sent a cable to the President of Pakistan, offering his condolences. The king also condemned such criminal action, expressing his deep sorrow and heartfelt condolences for the victims. [56]

Flag of Kazakhstan.svg  Kazakhstan Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the attack and release a press statement saying "We express our deep condolences to the Government of Pakistan, the families and close ones of those who perished and wish speedy recovery to all injured during the terrorist attack. The killing of innocent children and teachers causes special indignation and revulsion and shows the utmost inhuman nature of terrorists." [57]

Flag of Kuwait.svg  Kuwait National Assembly of Kuwait Speaker Marzouq Al-Ghanim met with Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, speaker of the National Assembly of Pakistan in Kuwait and condemned the attack on behalf of Government of Kuwait. Al-Ghanim offered condolences to families of victims and expressed solidarity. [58]

Flag of Lebanon.svg  Lebanon Saad Hariri, former Prime Minister condemned the attack on behalf of Lebanese government saying "We strongly condemn the terrorist attack that targeted students at a school in the Peshawar area of Pakistan yesterday." [59]

Flag of Malaysia.svg  Malaysia Ministry of Foreign Affairs on a statement said "Malaysia strongly condemns the attack that resulted in the loss of 141 lives including 132 school children and wounded dozens of other students and educators. The senseless killing and attack on school children by the perpetrators, for whatever reason, is uncalled for and inhumane in nature....We are ready to support Pakistan in their peace building efforts as Malaysia continues to promote the moderation agenda and mediation approach". Prime Minister Najib Razak together with Foreign Affairs Minister Anifah Aman has express their condolence and sympathies to the Government and people of Pakistan, as well as to the bereaved families of the victims of the attack. [60]

Flag of Maldives.svg  Maldives — President Abdulla Yameen send two condolence letters to Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, mentioning "Maldives commitment to fight against the global menace of terrorism and conveyed that Maldives would continue to work closely with Pakistan and the international community as a whole in eliminating this scourge of terrorism." [61] Foreign Minister Dunya Maumoon condmend the attack and said "It was with deep shock and profound sadness that I learnt of the inhumane and brutal terrorist attacks at a school in Peshawar, which has caused the loss of many innocent lives and injury to many others, most of whom are children. At this time of national tragedy, the Government and the people of Maldives join me in extending heartfelt condolences to the Government and the people of Pakistan, and especially to the members of the bereaved families. May Allah give us all strength and fortitude during this time of heartache and grief". [62]

Flag of Nepal.svg    Nepal Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a press release saying "At this hour of grief, the government of Nepal extends heartfelt condolences and sympathies to the Government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and through them to the bereaved families and prays for the speedy recovery of those injured." [63]

Flag of Oman.svg  Oman Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the attack and release a press release saying "The government of the Sultanate of Oman condemns the terrorist attack that was carried out by Pakistani Taliban which targeted children's school in the city of Peshawar in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and resulted in a number of deaths and wounded innocent children and teachers. The Sultanate's government stands by the Government and people of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and support their efforts to fight terrorism so as to enhance the security and stability in this friend country and the region." [64]

Flag of the Philippines.svg  Philippines President Benigno Aquino in a statement condemned the attacked and said "Today, we join the world in condemning the outrage perpetrated on innocent schoolchildren, and school officials and personnel in Peshawar, Pakistan. In this moment of grief and sadness for the people of Pakistan, the Filipino people are one with them in mourning. Today, every person of goodwill is a father, mother, brother, and sister to the people of Pakistan." [65]

Flag of Saudi Arabia.svg  Saudi Arabia King Abdullah condemned the attack saying "We have heard about the news of this terrorist attack with profound pain and grief." [66] Grand Mufti Abdul-Aziz ibn Abdullah Al ash-Sheikh condemned the attack describing it as "corruption, injustice and aggression." He further added that "It’s appalling to see many people being killed in Muslim countries these days and this should wake up Muslims as it’s a dangerous action and a big crime." [67] [68]

Flag of Singapore.svg  Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a press statement in which they condemned the attack. "Singapore strongly condemns the attack on the Army Public School in Peshawar, Pakistan. This is a heinous crime. We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of so many innocent lives and the large number of people injured. We express our deepest condolences and sympathy to the families of the victims and the people of Pakistan." the statement reads. [69]

Flag of South Korea.svg  South Korea Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the attack and release a press release which reads " The Government of the Republic of Korea cannot but be shocked and outraged over the terrorist attack on the Army Public School in Peshawar in northwestern Pakistan on December 16 that left a large number of people, including school children, killed or injured. The ROK government prays for the repose of the innocent people killed in the attack and offers its deepest condolences and consolation to their bereaved families as well as the Pakistani people." [70]

Flag of Sri Lanka.svg  Sri Lanka President Mahinda Rajapaksa condemned the attack. "Horrified to learn of the Peshawar terrorist attack. Targeting of children is most cowardice. Our thoughts & prayers are with Pakistan." Rajapaksa said on his Twitter account. [71]

Flag of Syria.svg  Syria — Speaker of the People's Assembly Mohammed Jihad Al-Laham stated "We assert standing by the Pakistani people, Government and leadership in combating terrorism which is targeting lives, civilization and noble values that have brought our peoples together, and we surely support Pakistan's deterrent procedures against the expansion of terrorism which is supported by well-known states in the Middle East and the colonial West,"; Al-Laham also added " we in the People’s Assembly express our sympathy and solidarity with you during this hard time, wishing the injured a swift recovery and hoping that Pakistan will eradicate terrorism soon so that Pakistani people can live in peace." The Syrian Foreign Ministry voiced "Syria's deep condolences to the families of the victims and sympathy with the friendly people and Government of Pakistan." [72]

Flag of Thailand.svg  Thailand — Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-o-cha condemn the attack and send condolences to families of victims. "I have learnt with deepest shock and sorrow of the attack at the Army Public School in Peshawar, Pakistan, on 16 December 2014, which claimed the lives of innocent schoolchildren and teachers. On behalf of the Government and the people of Thailand, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy and condolences to Your Excellency and, through you, to the grieving families who lost loved ones as a result of this barbaric and unjustifiable act. Thailand condemns this senseless act of terror and shares with our friends in Pakistan in the sense of profound grief and loss." he said. Foreign Minister Tanasak Patimapragorn also condemned the attack. [73]

Flag of Tajikistan.svg  Tajikistan — President Emomali Rahmon condemned the attack and sent a condolence letter to Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif which reads "Deeply convinced that this terrible event, which once again has shown the world community cowardly face of international terrorism, strengthens our will to continue the relentless fight against this shameful phenomenon of the century and will give impetus to international cooperation in preventing violence and extremism." [61]

Flag of Turkey.svg  Turkey — President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoğlu condemned the attack and announced a day of national mourning in Turkey. [74] Foreign Ministry issued a statement which reads "The attack in Peshawar, which aimed at disrupting the country's domestic peace and security, caused deep sadness in Turkey. Turkey is determined to continue its solidarity with the Pakistani Government and its people and will continue supporting Pakistan's fight against terrorism." [75]

Flag of the United Arab Emirates.svg  United Arab Emirates — Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan condemned the attack on behalf of Government of United Arab Emirates saying "In this painful and difficult moment, we stand by Pakistan and its people in the face of this blind extremism and criminal terrorism and ask the Allah the Almighty to bless the young and innocent victims of heinous malice, perpetual hatred and dark violence. As we pray for the souls of innocent children, we ask Allah the Almighty to grant solace and strength to their parents, families and to the people of friendly Pakistan." [76]

Flag of Vietnam.svg  Vietnam — Prime Minister, Foreign Minister condemned the attack and sent condolence messages to Pakistan. Foreign Ministry issued a statement which reads "Vietnam conveys deep condolences and sympathy to the government and people of Pakistan, the families of victims and believes that the instigators will be punished appropriately soon." [77]

Africa

Flag of Algeria.svg  Algeria — Spokesman of Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a press statement condemned the attack and said "We express our indignation at this heinous and barbaric crime, which cannot be justified under any circumstances. The horror endured by these innocent victims reflects the blind and inhuman assailants and their sponsors. We extend our sympathy with the victims' families and solidarity with the Government of Pakistan." [78]

Flag of Egypt.svg  Egypt — The Egyptian ministry of foreign affairs spokesman Badr Abdelatty said that the Egyptian government condemns the attack and gives its condolences to Pakistanis and the families of the victims. He stressed the importance of "international collaboration to counter-terrorism, as it is considered a global phenomenon targeting security and stability all over the world". [79]

Flag of Kenya.svg  Kenya Ministry of Foreign Affairs on behalf of Government of Kenya condemned the attack in a press statement. "We pray for the families and people of Pakistan and strongly condemn the senseless act of unspeakable brutality. Our hearts go out to grief stricken families of innocent kids killed and injured in this terrible attack in Peshawar." cabinet secretary Ambassador Amina Mohammed said. [80]

Flag of Morocco.svg  Morocco King Muhammad condemned the attack saying "I was appalled and deeply saddened by the news of the horrific terrorist attack on a school in Peshawar which caused a large number of casualties, most of them innocent children. In my capacity as Commander of the Faithful, and in keeping with my responsibilities at the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, I strongly condemn all forms of terrorism, which is totally incompatible with our pristine Islamic faith, the revealed religions and human principles and democratic values which make the right to life the foremost human right on earth." [81]

Flag of Nigeria.svg  Nigeria — President Goodluck Jonathan condemned the attack and offered condolences to Pakistani people and Government. "The president wholly condemns the brutal, savage, senseless and totally unjustifiable killing of innocent students and staff during the attack," the statement said. [82]

Flag of South Africa.svg  South Africa Department of International Relations and Cooperation spokesman Clayson Monyela in a press release condemn the attack saying "The South African Government has today... joined the international community in condemning in the strongest possible terms the inhumane and barbaric terrorist attack against a school in the city of Peshawar." [83]

Flag of Tunisia.svg  Tunisia — Caretaker President of Tunisia Moncef Marzouki condemned the attack calling it a "heinous crime" and offered condolences. [84]

Europe

Flag of Albania.svg  Albania Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a press release to condemn the attack. "The Albanian MFA extends its sincere condolences to the families of the victims and to all persons affected by this tragedy of active terrorism, expresses its sincere support to the Pakistani authorities in facing this new situation and hopes for the rapid healing of the wounded persons."[ citation needed ]

Flag of Andorra.svg  Andorra — Ministry of Foreign Affairs on behalf of the Government and people of Andorra, expressed it condolences with the families of victims. [61]

Flag of Austria.svg  Austria Foreign Minister Sebastian Kurz in a tweet condemned the attack saying "Such horrible acts can never be justified" and sent condolence to families of the victims. [85]

Flag of Belgium (civil).svg  Belgium Foreign Minister Didier Reynders strongly condemned the attack and offered condolences to victims saying "These are acts of utmost cruelty that touch the core of a society and negate the most basic human rights. Radicalisation and extremism always lead to destruction and loss of life. It is international diplomacy's duty to promote moderation, prevent radicalisation and fight impunity through respect of international humanitarian and human rights law. This endeavour is at the core of Belgium's foreign policy." [86]

Flag of Bulgaria.svg  Bulgaria Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the attack and issued a statement saying "We reaffirm our strong support of the efforts of the international community for eradication of all forms of terrorism and remain committed to the furthering of the EU-Pakistan counter-terrorism dialogue." [87]

Flag of Denmark.svg  Denmark — Prime Minister Helle Thorning-Schmidt while speaking in parliament condemned the attack and said "It is a very serious situation. I am simply appalled that the Taliban can find to attack a school. Over 100 deaths are reported. It is heartbreaking and shows the evil Taliban stands for; and it stresses the importance of the fact that we are still fighting the Taliban, also in relation to what we do in Afghanistan." [61]

Flag of France.svg  France President François Hollande in a statement condemned the attack saying "No words can express the ignominy of such an attack against children in their school and that France supported the Government of Pakistan in their fight against terrorism" and expressed solidarity with the victims and their parents." [88]

Flag of Georgia.svg  Georgia Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the attack in a press statement and said "We are shocked with the extent of the tragedy and barbarity committed by the terrorists, which is a grave crime against the entire civilized world. In this difficult moment we stand with the people of Pakistan and convey our condolences to the families of the terrorism victims." [89]

Flag of Germany.svg  Germany Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier in a statement condemned the attack saying "We mourn with the people of Pakistan, the victims of this bloody terrorist attack. Our heart goes out to the families of the victims". [90]

Flag of Greece.svg  Greece — Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Evangelos Venizelos condemned the attack in a press release and said "We are shocked at the incomprehensible, barbaric, inhuman terrorist attack of the Taliban of Pakistan on a school in the city of Peshawar; an attack that resulted in the deaths of dozens of innocent children. The fact that the terrorists targeted children is abhorrent, evoking rage at the craven killers who murdered defenseless children. We express our deep condolences to the families of the victims and our undivided support for the people and the Government of Pakistan." [91]

Flag of Ireland.svg  Ireland — Minister of Foreign Affairs Charles Flanagan condemned the attack and said "I wholeheartedly condemn the tragic killing of school children and others in Pakistan today. This was an attack of savage brutality which targeted innocent children in their place of study. I wish to express my heartfelt condolences and those of the Irish people to the families of the victims and to the people and the authorities of Pakistan on this tragic day." [92]

Flag of Italy.svg  Italy Prime Minister Matteo Renzi condemned the attack on his Twitter account, saying "Killing children at school is an inconceivable horror, the world must react to this violence." [93]

Flag of Latvia.svg  Latvia Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a press statement said "Latvia conveys its deepest condolences to Pakistan concerning the attack by a group of Taliban on a school in Peshawar in which both children and teachers were killed and injured. Latvia categorically condemns terrorism and violence. Latvia expresses heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims. On this tragic day, our feelings are with the people of Pakistan. Latvia supports the efforts of the Pakistani authorities that are aimed at ensuring peace and stability at home and in the region, and are based on national interests and international cooperation." [94]

Flag of Lithuania.svg  Lithuania — President Dalia Grybauskaite, in a condolence letter to the President of Pakistan, condemned the attack and expressed her solidarity to the people and Government of Pakistan and called "that who organized, participated or otherwise contributed to the attack that shocked the whole international community must be brought to justice." [61]

Flag of Luxembourg.svg  Luxembourg — Prime Minister Xavier Bettel in a condolence letter to Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif condemned the attack and expressed his solidarity to the people and Government of Pakistan. [61]

Flag of Norway.svg  Norway Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the attack and issued a press release quoting Foreign Minister Børge Brende. "I condemn today’s terrorist attack on a school in Peshawar in the strongest possible terms. Targeting children and teachers in this manner is despicable." the release reads. [95] King Harald V offered condolences to the Pakistani President in a message saying that "I was shocked and saddened by the tragic loss of so many young lives at the Army Public School in Peshawar. On behalf of myself and the Norwegian people, I extend to you, the families of the victims and to the people of Pakistan my condolences and deepest sympathy." [96]

Flag of Poland.svg  Poland Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement to condemn the attack. "We strongly denounce all acts of terrorism, the more so when they are targeted against children who are the most vulnerable and innocent. We hope that those responsible for this attack will be brought to justice and will be severely punished. We expressed our sincere condolences to the families and close ones of the victims of the attack in Peshawar and to the people of Pakistan] who can count on our solidarity in these difficult moments" the statement reads. [97]

Flag of Romania.svg  Romania — Foreign Affairs Minister Bogdan Aurescu described the attack as "a barbaric act" and called for those responsible to be brought to justice. He also sent condolences to the victims' families and expressed solidarity with the Pakistani people. [98]

Flag of Russia.svg  Russia — President Vladimir Putin condemned the attack and sent condolence message to Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. [61] The Russian Foreign Ministry strongly condemned the attacks, and added: "We support the measures undertaken by the Government of Pakistan aimed at the extermination of the hotbeds of terrorism. We expect Pakistan to continue with its uncompromising struggle to eliminate the extremist infrastructure. Russia is ready to proceed with assisting the Pakistani Government in its efforts to fight terror." [99] [100]

Flag of Slovenia.svg  Slovenia Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the attack calling it "barbaric" and offered its since condolences to the victims and their families on behalf of people and government of Slovenia. [101]

Flag of Spain.svg  Spain President of the Government Mariano Rajoy sent condolences to the Prime Minister of Pakistan in the name of the Spanish people: "I cannot imagine a more disgusting terrorist act on human dignity. My country has also known the indiscriminate pain and suffering of terrorism and violence. For this, you can count on my Government's full support and the firm commitment of Spain in the fight against this scourge." [102]

Flag of the United Kingdom.svg  United Kingdom Prince Charles condemned the attack.[ citation needed ] British Prime Minister David Cameron condemned the attack and expressed deep shock at the tragedy. "The news from Pakistan is deeply shocking. It's horrifying that children are being killed simply for going to school." Cameron said on his Twitter account. [103] Former Prime Minister Gordon Brown and leader of Labour Party Ed Miliband condemned the attack. [104] Queen Elizabeth II condemned the attack saying "deepest sympathies from me and from those of the people of United Kingdom to all those affected by the tragic event in Peshawar." [105]

Flag of the Vatican City (2023-present).svg  Vatican City Pope Francis in a gathering in St. Peter's Square condemned the attacks in Australia, Pakistan and Yemen. "I would like to pray together with you for the victims of the inhuman terrorist acts carried out in the past few days in Australia, Pakistan and Yemen. May God welcome the dead into his peace, comfort the families and convert the hearts of the violent ones, who do not even stop before children." [106]

Oceania

Flag of Australia (converted).svg  Australia Prime Minister Tony Abbott in a statement said "It is impossible to put into words the mixture of grief and fury that must be felt by people in Pakistan, and indeed around the world, at this latest terrorist atrocity in Peshawar. What struck that school was an act of cowardice and depravity beyond measure. It is an unspeakable tragedy, and Australia condemns this horrific act of violence." [107] [108] Minister for Foreign Affairs Julie Bishop issued an official statement saying that Australia and Pakistan "share a common sense of grief and outrage at this senseless attack." [109]

Flag of New Zealand.svg  New Zealand Prime Minister John Key condemned the attack in press conference saying "Like everybody, we're horrified by what we have seen take place in Pakistan overnight. We utterly condemn the actions that have taken place." The President of Pakistan Association of New Zealand also condemned the attack calling it "inhumane". [110]

North America

Flag of Canada (Pantone).svg  Canada — Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird in a press conference said "He was sickened to learn militants had gunned down more than 120 people. Canada unequivocally condemns this heinous act." [111]

Flag of the United States.svg  United States President Barack Obama in a statement said "The United States condemns in the strongest possible terms today's horrific attack... " [104] US Ambassador to Pakistan Richard Olson condemned the attack in a statement, saying "The United States strongly condemns senseless and inhumane attacks on innocent students and educators, and stands in solidarity with the people of Pakistan, and all who fight the menace of terrorism." [112] Secretary of State John Kerry said "the perpetrators of this act of terror must be brought to justice." [113]

South America

Flag of Colombia.svg  Colombia Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a press release condemning the terrorist attack in Peshawar and stated that "The Government of Colombia expresses its most deepest condolences to the civilian population, and Government, of Pakistan, and wishes for a speedy recovery for those harmed and affected." [114]

Religious entities

Liwa-e-Ahmadiyya 1-2.svg Ahmadiyya Muslim Community — The 5th Caliph of the community, Mirza Masroor Ahmad, condemned the attack in his Friday Sermon of 19 December 2014, [115] delivered from Baitul Futuh mosque, saying that this was one of the most barbaric act in the history of humanity and it does not represent the true teachings of prophet of Islam, Muhammad. He extended his sympathies to the parents and families of the victims. [116]

Organisations

Non-governmental organizations

  • Amnesty International — Deputy Director David Griffiths said: "There can be absolutely no justification for targeting children in this way. This unconscionable Taliban attack is a grave reminder that civilians in north-west Pakistan desperately need effective protection from militant groups". [22]

Militant groups

Flag of Taliban.svg Afghan TalibanZabihullah Mujahid, the spokesman of Afghan Taliban, condemned the attack, saying "the intentional killing of innocent people, children and women are against the basics of Islam and this criteria has to be considered by every Islamic party and government". [117]

Flag of Taliban.svg Jamaat-ul-Ahrar — The Pakistani Taliban splinter group Jamaat-ul-Ahrar condemned the attack. The group's spokesman Ehsanullah Ehsan announced that like the Afghan Taliban, "we condemn the attack on the school and killing of innocent children". [118]

Flag of Lashkar-e-Jhangvi.svg Lashkar-e-Jhangvi — Ghulam Rasool Shah, a deputy for the LeJ leader Malik Ishaq condemned the attack saying "We strongly condemn the attacks on schoolchildren in Peshawar and believe that there is no religious, ethical or any other social reason for this cruel act. We stand with the Pakistan army and political leadership in this critical situation". [118]

Flag of Jihad.svg Al-Qaeda — Usama Mahmood, the spokesman of al Qaeda condemned the attack, saying "massacre of innocent children makes our hearts burst!" [119]

Flag of Jihad.svg Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan — The group praised the attack calling it a "Martyrdom Operation" and justified. "Oh Nawas and Raheel! Listen carefully to what we say! You'll harvest what you sow! You have signed to the death certificate of your children by killing the children of Muslims…If you do not take lesson from it and continue your atrocities towards Muslims, then you had better gather all your soldiers in the borders and military camps and re-allocate them as the doorkeepers to your schools and kufr institutions where your spouses work. Because our jihad of blood for blood and life for life has entered to the new stage, insha Allah!", the statement warns. [120]

Celebrities

Several celebrities from Pakistan and India condemn over Peshawar Attack on Twitter. [121] [122] [123] [124] [125] [126] [127] [128] [129] [130] [131] [132]

  • Mahira Khan wrote "The smallest coffins are the heaviest. It’s sick how these cowards think. #PeshawarAttack. "
  • Fawad Khan wrote "Killing innocent children is the worst of brutality. Deeply saddened, my heart prayers go out to the suffering families #PeshawarAttack."
  • Sanam Saeed wrote "Still in shock. How can someone be this cruel to kill innocent children? Their only crime was that they were educating themselves? #Peshawar. "
  • Karan Johar wrote "The Peshawar killing is just heartbreaking…the death of humanity on every level…helplessness is the only feeling…"
  • Shahrukh Khan wrote "The soul is healed by being with children. Extreme anger & disgust for all those who took our children, our future, our healers away. "
  • Anoushey Ashraf wrote "Can’t explain how I feel. This time yesterday our angels were alive, well and happy. Doing a show on them 2day. This will be hard#PeshawarAttack. "
  • Hadiqa Kiani wrote "Over 120 innocent lives taken away just like that. Disgusting. #ThisNeedsToEnnd #PeshawarAttack #PrayForPakistan"
  • Shaan Shahid wrote "Its indeed a black day. I’m lost of words as the words hide behind the pain and cry. My Hearts bleed.. "
  • Alia Bhatt wrote "No such thing as humanity. Its appalling to even think that we are capable of being so monstrous and so majorly MESSED UP!!!#PeshawarAttack"
  • Aamir Khan wrote "Just heard about the innocent children being killed in Peshawar. I’m devastated…"
  • Tapu Javeri wrote "I’m posting a black screen to mourn and protest the senseless killing of innocent children in Peshawar…"
  • Deepak Perwani wrote "All I want to do now is cry for those Angels May God bless their souls #PeshawarAttack"
  • Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy wrote "There can be no explanation, no words, no excuses…it is what it is- a massacre of children- An act of war- #pakistan #taliban"
  • Juggun Kazim wrote "This is WRONG. No parent should ever have to bury their child. My Pakistan MY children MY country BURNS. Baas kar do aab bardasht nahi hota. "
  • Osman Khalid Butt wrote "This is not a time for political name-calling. Please, let us stand united today. MY @NJLahori No politics, only prayers. "
  • Humaima Malick wrote "Please stop inflicting savagery on the innocents. They belong to the faith of love and humanity. They know nothing else. #PeshawarSchoolAttack"
  • Mathira wrote "What happened in Peshawar has shook me up wat a bad day today 130ppl died oh Allah protect us put mercy in our hearts protect our kids. "
  • Veena Malik wrote "I strongly condemn horrific attack of utter barbarism on innocent school children…shocked and heartbroken!!!".
  • Arjun Kapoor wrote "Just reading about Peshawar never felt more helpless...my prayers with everyone in Peshawar all the children and parents...sad sad day"
  • Hrithik Roshan wrote "Just a thought I had -Atrocities in d world. We’re not helpless. There's something we all can do."
  • Riteish Deshmukh wrote "Death of Humanity - Wake up World - it's not their issue -it's our issue - we need to stand up. #PeshawarAttack"
  • Javed Akhtar wrote "104 innocent children are killed by Taliban’s In Peshawar . A black day for humanity."
  • Farhan Akhtar wrote "My heart has broken.. The world failed those children in Peshawar ... It's a sad sad day."
  • Hassan Sheheryar Yasin wrote "This evil happened. It's not a bad dream. And must not become a distant memory. We must NEVER forget #PeshawarAttack"
  • Priyanka Chopra wrote "I send out a prayer. pls God..in whichever form and whatever name. Pls teach your children to value human life. I pray for peace. #Peshawar"
  • Shahid Kapoor wrote "Darkest day of the human race.No RELIGION tells you to kill children. Can’t believe someone is capable of this monstrosity#PeshawarAttack"
  • Varun Dhawan wrote "Black day innocence lost where is humanity heading. No religion no God could ever want this.…"
  • Anupam Kher wrote "Koi sagar dil ko behlata nahi, bekhudi mai bhi qarar aata nahi. Today the world is so sad. Those children deserved a long & happy life. #SAD"
  • Dilip Kumar wrote "unforgivable and sinful."
  • Rahul Bose wrote "Everyday reveals a new face of evil. Courage, caring, hope, justice & love are never to be lost. We need them now more than ever. #Peshawar"
  • Sonakshi Sinha wrote "Oh god! What's happening in this world? Times like these make you question humanity. Everyone please pray for what's happening in #Peshawar. Terrorism has no religion. People who can do such a thing have no god. Prayers with all the parents and children going through this."
  • Sonam Kapoor wrote "What a senseless unspeakable act. The world is filled with monsters. #Peshawar #PakSchoolSiege #PeshawarAttack"
  • Amitabh Bachchan wrote "When innocence is silenced...There can be just silence."
  • Akshay Kumar wrote "Feeling numb hearing about d terrorist attack on innocent children in #Peshawar! May God give strength to the victims’ families. RIP humanity"
  • Vaani Kapoor wrote "One of the most gruesome attack..Devastating day for humanity. My prayers are with the kids and parents."
  • Juhi Chawla wrote "The Peshawar tragedy is heartbreaking ..!"
  • Bejoy Nambiar wrote "The horrific description of the Peshawar attack just makes you question everything that we feel is right with the world."
  • Nimrat Kaur wrote "Don't have the courage to put the news on ... Reading about the children of Peshawar is heart wrenching enough . No words at all ..."
  • Sania Mirza wrote "Please God..have mercy on the kids and their families..this is heart breaking and painful..What has humanity come to :("
  • Manoj Bajpayee wrote "Can't think of words which will explain the pain one feels on the death of 130 kids of peshawar.my heart goes out to the parents."
  • Sonu Sood wrote "How can anyone kill 100 innocent students? Can't be humans. My heart goes to the parents of those innocent Angels."
  • Madhur Bhandarkar wrote "Killing innocent children has to be the final nail in humanity's coffin. Fundamentalism has found its limit today. Dastardly."
  • Aditi Rao Hydari wrote "what's happening? Terrorizing people is religious? Killing people is pleasing god? This carnage is insane, inhuman. #Livid #Weepy"
  • Ashwin Mushran wrote "And the death toll rises to 126 in #Peshawar. If the world does not stop this evil we don't have worry about the ozone layer. We'll all die."
  • Resul Pookutty wrote "More than 100 children is believed to have been killed by mindless barbarians...Hamara Khuda Ithina chotte nahi ho sakta..."
  • Sophie Choudry wrote "Innocent kids are victims & yet again religion the sick excuse. Heart-broken & ashamed that this is the world we live in!"
  • Taapsee Pannu wrote "k now it's getting scarier day by day. First Australia, now Pakistan. What next??? I fear to even think,"
  • Raveena Tandon wrote "The horror the pain ! Oh god you are being questioned now as the world sheds tears for those innocent souls! Lil Angels of the future!"
  • Vishal Dadlani wrote "No God will ever forgive the Taliban for this. They're forever condemned, and I hope they don't even get burials when they die."
  • Shibani Kashyap wrote "Very sad.. hoping and praying for a stop to such harmful incidences."
  • Ali Zafar wrote "Our leaders should announce to collectively build & rebuild even more schools tomorrow and make education their first priority than politics."
  • Mahesh Bhatt wrote "Holy Prophet described a true Muslim as someone whose words and deeds do not harm any person in any way, and here we have brother killing brother! Why is it that only a believer kills and not a non-believer? It's a very strange thing."
  • Anushka Sharma wrote "This is the cruelest most inhuman and cowardly act. It pains me so much. Prayers & strength with the families of the innocent kids killed." [130] [131] [133]

Related Research Articles

Statements in response to the 11 July 2006 Mumbai train bombings came from heads of state, political leaders, and militant leaders from around the world. Most offered some sort of condemnation of the attacks and commented on terrorism as a whole.

The Karsaz bombing attack occurred on 18 October 2007 in Karachi, Pakistan; it was an attack on a motorcade carrying former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto. The bombing occurred two months before she was assassinated. The bombing resulted in at least 180 deaths and 500 injuries. Most of the dead were members of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP).

International reactions to the assassination of Benazir Bhutto consisted of universal condemnation across the international community, including Pakistan's regional neighbors Afghanistan, China, India, Bangladesh, and Iran. Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh praised Bhutto's efforts for the improvement of India-Pakistan relations. The UN Security Council held an emergency meeting and unanimously condemned the assassination, a call echoed by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. Both European Union President José Manuel Barroso and U.S. President George W. Bush also expressed the hope that Pakistan will continue on the path of democracy.

The international reactions to the Beslan school hostage crisis was as follows:

<span class="mw-page-title-main">2008 bombing of Indian embassy in Kabul</span> Suicide bomb terrorist attack

The 2008 Indian embassy bombing in Kabul was a suicide bomb terror attack on the Indian embassy in Kabul, Afghanistan on 7 July 2008 at 8:30 AM local time. The bombing killed 58 people and wounded 141. The suicide car bombing took place near the gates of the embassy during morning hours when officials enter the embassy.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Reactions to the 2008 Mumbai attacks</span>

Reactions to the 2008 Mumbai attacks were on the local, national and international levels. Political reactions in Mumbai and throughout India included a range of resignations and political changes. Other reactions included condemnation of the attacks by an Indian Muslim organisation and Naxalites. International reactions to the attacks was widespread, with many countries and international organisations condemning the attacks and expressing their condolences to the civilian victims. Media coverage highlighted the use of new media and internet social-networking tools in spreading information about the attacks, observing that internet coverage was often faster than more-traditional media sources.

The Pearl Continental hotel bombing occurred on 9 June 2009 in Peshawar, Pakistan, in which 17 people were killed and at least 46 people injured. The blast occurred at the five-star Pearl Continental hotel in the city. The force of the explosion caused the hotel to partially collapse. Gunman also attacked the hotel, firing several shots at survivors. The United States had planned to purchase this hotel to convert it to a consulate.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">2012 Khyber Agency bombing</span> 2012 terror attack in northwest Pakistan

The 2012 Khyber Agency bombing occurred on 10 January 2012, when a bomb exploded near a petrol pump in the town of Jamrud near the Afghan border in Khyber Agency of the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) of Pakistan. The bombing killed at least 30 people while 78 others were injured.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">2014 Peshawar school massacre</span> Terrorist attack in Peshawar, Pakistan

On 16 December 2014, six gunmen affiliated with the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) conducted a terrorist attack on the Army Public School in the northwestern Pakistani city of Peshawar. The terrorists, all of whom were foreign nationals, comprising one Chechen, three Arabs and two Afghans, entered the school and opened fire on school staff and children, killing 149 people including 132 schoolchildren ranging between eight and eighteen years of age, making it the world's fifth deadliest school massacre. Pakistan launched a rescue operation undertaken by the Pakistan Army's Special Services Group (SSG) special forces, who killed all six terrorists and rescued 960 people. In the long term, Pakistan established the National Action Plan to crack down on terrorism.

International reactions to the <i>Charlie Hebdo</i> shooting

This international reactions to the Charlie Hebdo Shooting contains issued statements in response to the 7 January 2015 Charlie Hebdo shooting. The response was largely one of condemnation.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Lahore church bombings</span> 2015 church bombings in Lahore, Pakistan

On 15 March 2015, two explosions took place at Roman Catholic Church and Christ Church during Sunday service in Youhanabad, Lahore, Pakistan. At least 15 people were killed and seventy were wounded in the attacks.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">2015 Karachi bus shooting</span> Terrorist attack in Karachi, Pakistan

On 13 May 2015, eight gunmen attacked a bus travelling in Safoora Goth, Karachi, Sindh in Pakistan. The shooting left at least 46 people dead. All of the victims were of the Ismaili Shia Muslim minority, suggesting the attack was a targeted killing of sectarian nature.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Reactions to the 2016 Brussels bombings</span>

A number of countries, national leaders and international organisations expressed comments or lit monuments in reaction to the 2016 Brussels bombings.

On the morning of 19 April 2016, Taliban militants attacked a security team responsible for protecting government VIPs in Kabul, Afghanistan. The initial attack killed 64 people and wounded 347. It was their biggest attack on an urban area since 2001.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">2016 Kayseri bombing</span>

On December 17, 2016, a suspected car bombing in Kayseri, Turkey killed 15 soldiers aboard a bus and wounded at least 55 others. According to the Daily Sabah newspaper, the soldiers — all low-ranking privates and non-commissioned officers — had been given permission for leave from the commando headquarters in the city. The explosion comes a week after 44 people were killed in a double bombing in Istanbul after a football match.

On 13 February 2017, a suicide bombing took place on the Mall Road in Lahore, Pakistan, where a group of chemists and pharmacists were holding a protest at Charing Cross in front of the Punjab provincial assembly. According to Punjab Police sources, 18 people were killed, including several police officials, and at least 87 were injured.

The reactions to the 2017 Tehran attacks include the responses by political and religious leaders, media and the general public, both within Iran, where the 2017 Tehran attacks took place, and from other nations and international organizations. Numerous notable establishments around the world also held memorials.

On 1 December 2017, 3–4 gunmen arrived at the hostel of Agricultural Training Institute at Agricultural University Peshawar and started firing as a result of which at least 13 people were killed and 35+ were injured. Tehreek-e-Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack.

On 13 July 2018, ahead of Pakistan's general election, two bombings took place at election rallies in Bannu and Mastung.

The 2019 Quetta bombing was a suicide bomb attack on an open marketplace in Quetta, Pakistan on 12 April, killing 21 people. The bombing took place near an area where many minority Shiite Muslims live. At least ten Hazara, including nine Shiites, were among the dead. Two paramilitary soldiers were also killed in the bombing. PM Imran Khan expressed condolences for the lives lost, directed the authorities to ensure the best medical treatment for the injured, and ordered an increase in security for Shiites and Hazara people. Lashkar-e-Jhangvi and ISIL later accepted responsibility for the attack, stating that "their target were Hazara people."

References

  1. "Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif: 'These Are My Children And It Is My Loss'". Headlines & Global News. 16 December 2014.
  2. 1 2 "TTP militants storm Peshawar school; 131 killed, more than 100 injured". Pakistan Today. Archived from the original on 18 December 2014. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  3. "84 children among 104 dead in Taliban attack on Peshawar school". India Today. 16 December 2014. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  4. "At least 126 dead in Taliban school attack in Peshawar". ARY News. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  5. "Pakistan to end death penalty moratorium in terror cases". The News International. 17 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  6. "84 killed, 83 injured as army-run public school attacked in NW Pakistan". Xinhua. Archived from the original on 18 December 2014. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  7. "Peshawar massacre: Shahbaz calls for national unity". Daily Times. Pakistan. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  8. "Political leaders united in sorrow". Pakistan Today. 16 December 2014. Retrieved 19 December 2014.
  9. "For a national cause: PTI calls off dharna after 126 days". The Express Tribune. Pakistan. 18 December 2014. Retrieved 19 December 2014.
  10. "Citizens arrive at Lal Masjid to 'reclaim their mosque'". Dawn News. 19 December 2014. Retrieved 19 December 2014.
  11. "CIVIL SOCIETY PROTESTS AGAINST LAL MASJID CLERIC". Newsweek Pakistan. 19 December 2014. Retrieved 19 December 2014.
  12. "FIR lodged against Lal Masjid cleric on second day of protest". 19 December 2014.
  13. "Religious Leaders sorrow". Binoria Media Production. 17 December 2014. Archived from the original on 21 December 2014. Retrieved 21 December 2014.
  14. "Card Gracias describes Peshawar school attack as a horrible tragedy that unites us all". Asia News. Pakistan. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  15. "Heartbroken by senseless and cold blooded act of terror: Malala Yousafzai". India Today. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  16. "Heart is bleeding: Ziauddin Yousafzai". Florida News Time. Archived from the original on 19 December 2014. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  17. "Queen Elizabeth condemn over Peshawar Attack". Times. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  18. "GCC Secretary General condemns terrorist attack in Pakistan". Khaleej Times. 17 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  19. "OIC Secretary General condemns assault on school in Pakistan". Gulf News. 17 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  20. "World leaders condemn Pakistan school massacre". World Bulletin. 16 December 2014. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  21. "Taliban Kill at Least 130, Mostly Students, at Pakistan Military School". VOANews.com. Voice of America. 16 December 2014. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  22. 1 2 "Quotes reacting to Pakistan attacks". Daily Telegraph. 16 December 2014. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  23. "Quotes Reacting to Pakistan Attacks". ABC News. 16 December 2014. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  24. "President Ghani Talks on the Phone with Pakistan Prime Minister". President of Afghanistan. Retrieved 18 December 2014.
  25. "Baku condemns terrorist attack in Pakistan". Azer News. 17 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  26. "The Embassy of Azerbaijan in Pakistan strongly condemns terror attack on a school at Peshawar". Azeri-Press Agency. 17 December 2014. Archived from the original on 17 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  27. "Bahrain condemns Peshawar terrorist attack". Bahrain News Agency. Information Affairs Authority. 17 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  28. "Bangladesh PM condemns deadly Taliban attack on Pakistan school". BD News 24. 16 December 2014. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  29. "Prayers for Peshawar victims held". The Brunei Times. 22 December 2014. Retrieved 22 December 2014.
  30. "China strongly condemns terrorist attack on Pakistan school". I Cross China. 16 December 2014. Archived from the original on 16 December 2014. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  31. "Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Qin Gang's Regular Press Conference on December 17, 2014". Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 17 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  32. "China expresses sorrow over Peshawar killings". Daily Times. 16 December 2014. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  33. "Chinese leadership conveys condolences over Peshawar Tragedy". MOFA Pakistan. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  34. "Second batch of APS students leave for 'healing trip' to China". DAWN News. 6 March 2015. Retrieved 6 March 2015.
  35. "Foreign Ministry strongly condemns terrorist attack on school in Pakistan". Cyprus News Agency. 16 December 2014. Retrieved 22 December 2014.
  36. Katuri, Charu (16 December 2014). "India stands by Pak, minus the usual sting". The Calcutta Telegraph. Archived from the original on 16 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  37. "After Peshawar School Attack, #IndiaWithPakistan Goes Viral". NDTV. 16 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  38. "PM Narendra Modi condemns Peshawar terror attack". Zee News. 16 December 2014. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  39. "President, PM condemn Peshawar school attack". India Gazette. 16 December 2014. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  40. "Home Minister Rajnath Singh condemns terrorist attack in Peshawar school". First Post. 16 December 2014. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  41. "India Slams Inhuman Attack on Peshawar School Children". International Business Times. India. 16 December 2014. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  42. "Omar Abdullah condemns Taliban attack in Pakistan school". Zee News. 16 December 2014. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  43. Gandhi, Rahul. "Deeply shocked". Facebook. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  44. "Politicos condemn Peshawar school terror attack, call it 'senseless act of unspeakable brutality'". Zee News. 16 December 2014. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  45. "Lok Sabha observes silence, condemns Peshawar school attack". Times of India. 17 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  46. "Peshawar attack: Solidarity marches across India today". Times of India. 17 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  47. Hodgkin, Emily (16 December 2014). "Peshawar school attack: Indians show solidarity with Pakistan following massacre as IndiaWithPakistan trends". The Independent. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  48. "#IndiaWithPakistan: Cross-border solidarity after Peshawar massacre". Al Zajeera. 16 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  49. "Indonesia condemns Taliban attack on Pakistani school". Jakarta Post . 17 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  50. "Iran Condoles with Pakistan over Terrorist Attack". Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Iran. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  51. "Iran Strongly Condemns Peshawar Terrorist Attack". Tasnim News Agency. 16 December 2014. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  52. "Pakistani pupils recall narrow escapes, carnage in Taliban slaughter at Peshawar school". Japan Times. 17 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  53. "Malala Yousafzai leads tributes to Peshawar school attack victims". Hello Magazine. 17 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  54. "Islam condemns the killing of children - Queen Rania". Jordan Times. 17 December 2014. Archived from the original on 23 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  55. "Jordan condemns Pakistan's school carnage". Petra News. 17 December 2014. Archived from the original on 18 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  56. "King offers condolences to Pakistani President over terrorist attack". Petra News. 18 December 2014. Archived from the original on 19 December 2014. Retrieved 18 December 2014.
  57. "Astana Joins in Condemnation of Peshawar Attack". Astana Times. 17 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  58. "Al-Ghanim expresses sympathy over Pakistani school attack". KUNA. 17 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  59. "Hariri condemns Pakistan school massacre". Daily Star. 17 December 2014. Retrieved 22 December 2014.
  60. "Attack in Peshawar, Pakistan" (Press release). Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Malaysia). 19 December 2014. Archived from the original on 19 December 2014. Retrieved 19 December 2014.
  61. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 "Statements / Remarks / Press Releases / Phone calls in response to the Attack on APS Peshawar on 16 December 2014". Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Pakistan. Retrieved 18 December 2014.
  62. "Minister Dunya sends a message of condolence following the terrorist attack on a school in Peshawar". MOFA Maldives. 22 December 2014. Archived from the original on 22 December 2014. Retrieved 22 December 2014.
  63. "Nepal condemns school attack in Pakistan". Yahoo News. 16 December 2014. Retrieved 16 December 2014.[ permanent dead link ]
  64. "Peshawar attack: Oman condemns terrorist attack on Pakistan school". Times of Oman. 17 December 2014. Archived from the original on 17 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  65. "Aquino condemns Taliban killing in Pakistan, says it dishonors Islam". Inquirer.net. 16 December 2014. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  66. "King denounces Peshawar attack". Arab News. 19 December 2014. Retrieved 20 December 2014.
  67. "Islamabad to fight terror with capital punishment". Arab News. 18 December 2014. Retrieved 18 December 2014.
  68. "Kingdom's Grand Mufti: Attacking on School in Pakistan is Crime, Injustice and Aggression". Saudi Press Agency. Retrieved 18 December 2014.
  69. "MFA condemns attack on Peshawar school". Asia One. 17 December 2014. Archived from the original on 17 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  70. "MOFA Spokesperson's Statement on the Terrorist Attack on the Army Public School in Pakistan". Ministry of Foreign Affairs, South Korea. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  71. "Mahinda slams Peshawar attack". Colombo Gazette. 16 December 2014. Archived from the original on 20 December 2014. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  72. "Syria: Collective int'l effort needed to eliminate terrorism after Peshawar attack". Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA). 17 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  73. "ข่าวสารนิเทศ : สารแสดงความเสียใจถึงนายกรัฐมนตรีปากีสถานและที่ปรึกษานายกรัฐมนตรีปากีสถานด้านความมั่นคงและการต่างประเทศต่อเหตุการณ์ผู้ก่อการร้ายบุกโจมตีโรงเรียนในเปชวาร์". MOFA Thailand. Retrieved 22 December 2014.
  74. "Turkey declares national mourning over Taliban carnage in Pakistan". Hurriyet Daily News. 16 December 2014. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  75. "Turkey strongly condemns Taliban attack in Pakistan". Today's Zaman. 17 December 2014. Archived from the original on 17 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  76. "UAE condemns Peshawar terrorist massacre". Khaleej Times. 18 December 2014. Retrieved 18 December 2014.
  77. "Vietnam condemns terrorist act in any form". Vietnam Net. 16 December 2014. Archived from the original on 23 December 2014. Retrieved 22 December 2014.
  78. "Algeria condemns school attack in Pakistan". Global Post. 17 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  79. "Egypt's Foreign Ministry and UN strongly condemn school attack in Pakistan". Daily News Egypt. 16 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  80. "Kenya pledges to support Pakistan as death toll in Taliban high school attack hits 126". The Star. 17 December 2014. Archived from the original on 17 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  81. "Morocco: HM King Mohammed Vi Condoles Pakistani President On Peshawar School Attack". All Africa. 17 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  82. "Nigerian leader offers condolences to Pakistan over school attack". Shanghai Daily. 18 December 2014. Retrieved 18 December 2014.
  83. "SA government condemns Pakistan attacks". The Citizen. 16 December 2014. Archived from the original on 16 December 2014. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  84. "Tunisia: Peshawar School Attack - Marzouki Condoles With His Pakistani Counterpart". AllAfrica.com. 17 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  85. "@sebastiankurz". Twitter. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  86. "Belgium condemns criminal attacks in Peshawar". Kuwait News Agency. 17 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  87. "Bulgaria condemns Taliban terrorist attack on Peshawar school". The Sofia Globe. 17 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  88. "Hollande condemns 'vile' Peshawar school attack". Business Recorder. 16 December 2014. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  89. "Georgia offers condolences to victims of Pakistan terrorist attack". Agenda. 17 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  90. "Pakistan school attack: live updates". Deutsche Welle. 16 December 2014. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  91. "Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Venizelos' statement on the terrorist attack at a school in Pakistan". MOFA Greece. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  92. "Minister Flanagan condemns attack on Pakistan school". MOFA Ireland. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  93. "Pakistan, Renzi: attentato a scuola orrore inconcepibile. Il mondo reagisca". Il Messaggero. 16 December 2014. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  94. "Latvia Conveys Condolences and Condemns the Barbaric Attack on a School in Pakistan". MOFA Latvia. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  95. "Norway condemns terrorist attack on school in Pakistan". Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Norway. 16 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  96. "Condolences from His Majesty King Harald of Norway to the President of Pakistan after the Peshawar school attack". The Norwegian Royal Court. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  97. "Poland condemns Taliban attack in Pakistan". The News - Radio Poland. 17 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  98. "MAE condamnă ferm atacul comis asupra unei şcoli din Peshawar, Pakistan". 16 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  99. Staff writer (17 December 2014). "Russia condemns attack on school in Peshawar". Daily Times. Pakistan. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  100. "Russia condemns attack on school in Peshawar". AAJ TV. 17 December 2014. Archived from the original on 17 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  101. "Foreign Ministry Condemns Peshawar School Attack". Slovenska tiskovna agencija. 17 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  102. "Pésame de Rajoy al primer ministro de Pakistán" (in Spanish). Government of Spain. 16 December 2014. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  103. "Taliban Storms School In Peshawar, Pakistan; Kills Over 100, Including 84 Children". International Business Times. 16 December 2014. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  104. 1 2 "Peshawar Attack: Tragic List Of Children Killed In School Massacre Emerges". Huffington Post UK. 16 December 2014. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  105. "Queen Elizabeth condemn over Peshawar Attack". Business Recorder. Pakistan. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  106. "Pope Francis condemns attacks in Australia, Pakistan, Yemen". Today Online. 17 December 2014. Archived from the original on 4 March 2016. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  107. "Australian PM Tony Abbott on Peshawar attack: It is an unspeakable tragedy". India.com. 17 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  108. "Pakistan's High Commissioner touched by affection of Canberra children after terror attack". Sydney Morning Herald. 17 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  109. "Ministerial statement on school attack by the Pakistan Taliban". Australian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 17 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  110. "PM condemns Taliban attack". Otago Daily Times. 17 December 2014. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  111. "Baird condemns 'sinister' terrorist attack in Peshawar". CTV News. 16 December 2014. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  112. "Ambassador Olson Extends Condolences to Families of Army Public School Attack Victims". Embassy of United States, Islamabad. Embassy of United States, Islamabad. Archived from the original on 16 December 2014. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  113. "World leaders condemn attack on school in Pakistan". RTÉ. 16 December 2014. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  114. "Comunicado del Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores en rechazo al ataque terrorista en una escuela en Pakistán". Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Colombia. 17 December 2014. Retrieved 19 December 2014.
  115. "Tragedy in Pakistan". alislam.org. Retrieved 19 December 2014.
  116. "Tragedy in Pakistan". alislam.org. Retrieved 19 December 2014.
  117. Houreld, Katharine (16 December 2014). "Afghan Taliban Condemn Attack On Pakistan School". The Huffington Post. Retrieved 17 December 2014.
  118. 1 2 Houreld, Jibran Ahmad (18 December 2014). "Some Pakistan militants denounce school attack, amid national outrage". Reuters. Retrieved 28 August 2015.
  119. "Al Qaeda condemns Pakistani Taliban's attack on Peshawar school". The Long War Journal. 20 December 2014. Retrieved 20 December 2014.
  120. "Uzbekistan-based Islamic organization justifies Peshawar school terror attack". Business Standard. 22 December 2014. Retrieved 22 December 2014.
  121. "Bollywood mourns on Peshawar Attack". Dawn.com. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  122. "Bollywood Celebrities Condemns Peshawar School Attack". Tribune.com. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  123. "B-Town continues mourning for Peshawar attack victims". Digital Spy.com. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  124. "Peshawar school attack: Big B, Shahrukh Khan, Aamir Khan mourn". Dunya News. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  125. "Heartbroken by senseless and cold blooded act of terror: Peshawar school attacks: Bollywood condemns the bloodshed". Bollywood Life. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  126. "Bollywood superstars reaction over Peshawar attack". NDTV. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  127. "Bollywood shows solidarity with Pakistan over Peshawar attack". The Times of India. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  128. "Bollywood Celebrities condemn Peshawar School attack". The News Reports. Archived from the original on 19 December 2014. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  129. "Bollywood stars condemn 'sickening' Peshawar school attack". The Times of India. India Times. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  130. 1 2 "Dilip Kumar on Peshawar School Attack: I'm Wounded Beyond Words". Daily Times.com. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  131. 1 2 "Peshawar school attack: Bollywood condemns". Filmibeat.com. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  132. "Bollywood Reacts On Peshawar Attack: Read Tweets". Emirates.com. Retrieved 16 December 2014.
  133. "Anushka Sharma On Peshawar Attack". Emirates.com. Retrieved 16 December 2014.