UN chief, UNSC condemn New Zealand mosque attack

NEW YORK: UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres in a statement stressed the need for joint global efforts to counter Islamophobia and eliminate intolerance and violent extremism in all its forms.

Condemning the tragic terrorist attack on two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, the world body chief called for upholding the sanctity of mosques and all places of worship.

A spokesperson for the secretary general said that Guterres is shocked and appalled at the terrorist attack at two mosques in Christchurch and extends his deepest condolences to the families of the victims and to the government and people of New Zealand.

The UN chief also called upon all people to show solidarity with the bereaved Muslim community on this tragedy on the holy day of Friday.

Meanwhile, the UN Security Council, strongly condemning the Christchurch attack on two mosques, reaffirmed that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace and security.

In a statement on the Christchurch massacre, the UN Security Council members underlined the need to hold perpetrators, organizers, financiers and sponsors of these reprehensible acts of terrorism accountable and bring them to justice.

They urged all states to cooperate actively with the government of New Zealand and all other relevant authorities in this regard.

The members of the Security Council reiterated that any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation, wherever, whenever and by whomsoever committed.

They reaffirmed the need for all states to combat threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts under the UN charter.