Saudi Arabia condemns ‘cowardly’ Manchester terror attack

Armed police patrol near Manchester Arena on May 23, following a deadly terror attack that killed at least 22 people. (AFP)

JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia on Tuesday strongly condemned last night's terrorist attack at a concert in northern England, according to an official statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The blast, at a concert by US star Ariana Grande, killed at least 22 people, including children, and injured dozens.

“The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia condemns and denounces the explosion, which took place in Manchester in the United Kingdom and killed and injured a number of people,” an official statement said.
 

According to the ministry’s website, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed the Kingdom’s solidarity with the United Kingdom, underscoring the need of “a concerted international effort” to eradicate the scourge of terrorism and extremism.

Saudi Arabia offered its sincere condolences to the victim’s families, the government and the people of the UK. “(Saudi Arabia wishes) a speedy recovery for the wounded,” the website quoted a ministry source as saying.

Meanwhile, the Saudi ambassador to the UK conveyed Saudi Arabia’s sincere condolences on what he described as a “cowardly” attack.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families. We continue to stand united with the UK in the global fight against terrorism,” envoy Mohammed bin Nawaf said in a tweet.