Queen deeply saddened by New Zealand mosque attacks
Queen Elizabeth II, New Zealand's head of state, said she was "deeply saddened" by the attacks on two mosques on Friday wshich left 49 people dead.
"I have been deeply saddened by the appalling events in Christchurch... At this tragic time, my thoughts and prayers are with all New Zealanders," she said in a message.
"Prince Philip and I send our condolences to the families and friends of those who have lost their lives," she said, paying tribute to emergency workers and volunteers providing support to the injured.
Queen Elizabeth, 92, the world's oldest and longest-serving living monarch, is queen of 15 other realms besides Britain, including Australia, Canada and New Zealand.
NOW READ: UPDATE: 49 dead in New Zealand mosque attacks
She last visited New Zealand in 2002 as part of celebrations to mark the 50th anniversary of her accession to the throne.
The Queen has sent the following message to the people of New Zealand.
— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) March 15, 2019
I have been deeply saddened by the appalling events in Christchurch today. Prince Philip and I send our condolences to the families and friends of those who have lost their lives...(1/2)
On behalf of the UK, my deepest condolences to the people of New Zealand after the horrifying terrorist attack in Christchurch. My thoughts are with all of those affected by this sickening act of violence.
— Theresa May (@theresa_may) March 15, 2019
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
We strongly condemn the fascist terrorist attack in #ChristChurch.
— Ibrahim Kalin (@ikalin1) March 15, 2019
May Allah have mercy on those who lost their lives today.
This cowardly act shows how anti-Muslim rhetoric and hatred leads to murderous acts.
The world must break its silence over Islamophobic hatred.