UN reacts as deadly mosque attack leaves 59 dead, 150 injured

United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres and other senior officials have strongly condemned the suicide bombing at a mosque in Peshawar, Pakistan, on Monday, which left at least 59 people dead and 150 injured.

According to reports, a militant group had claimed responsibility for the deadly attack, which occurred at the crowded mosque.

Reports revealed that the bombing caused the roof to collapse on top of the worshipers inside.

“It’s particularly abhorrent that the attack occurred at a place of worship,” Guterres said in a statement issued by his Spokesperson, Stephanie Dujarric.

“Freedom of religion or belief, including the ability to worship in peace and security, is a universal human right,” he added.

Guterres also extended his condolences to the victims’ families, wishing a prompt recovery to those injured.

He reiterated the solidarity of the United Nations with the Government and people of Pakistan in their efforts to address terrorism and violent extremism in their country.

Also condemning the deadly attack, Miguel Ángel Moratinos, the High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilisations (UNAOC), noted that all forms of violence and acts of terror against civilians and religious sites on account of their belief or religion are intolerable and unjustifiable and should be unequivocally condemned.

Moratinos said, “Houses of worship are sacred places where worshippers should be able to practice and declare their faith safely and freely.”