The state of emergency has been extended for three more months in France following the fresh terror attack in Nice, which has killed 80 now. 18 people are in intensive care. A truck loaded with weapons and hand grenades was driven at high speeds through crowds celebrating Bastille Day. According to witnesses, the driver was zig-zagging to hit as many people as possible. He has been shot dead.
State of emergency was enforced in France in November, following the Paris attacks that claimed 130 lives. No group has taken responsibility for today’s attack. According to international reports, the gunman was a 31-year-old French-Tunisian citizen. French President François Hollande described the attack as a “monstrosity”.
“Nothing will make us yield in our will to fight terrorism. We will further strengthen our actions in Iraq and in Syria. We will continue striking those who attack us on our own soil,” Hollande said, referring to the Islamic State. “Following this, we will show real force and military action in Syria and Iraq.”
Politicians from across the world have responded to the attacks. European Council president Donald Tusk described the attack as a “tragic paradox”, as 77 were killed on a day France was celebrating “liberty, equality, fraternity”.
From the US, John Kerry, US Secretary of State, has said, “I was proud to stand alongside French leaders earlier today at Bastille Day celebrations in Paris, and the United States will continue to stand firmly with the French people during this time of tragedy. We will provide whatever support is needed.” Presidential candidates Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton have temporarily suspended their campaigns in the wake of the attacks.
Brexit leader Boris Johnson tweeted, “Shocked and saddened by the appalling events in Nice, and the terrible loss of life.”
Shocked and saddened by the appalling events in Nice, and the terrible loss of life.
— Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) July 15, 2016
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also responded to the attacks saying he is “appalled” at the horrific attack.
Appalled by the horrific attack in Nice. I strongly condemn such mindless acts of violence. My thoughts are with the families of deceased.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 15, 2016
I hope the injured recover soon. India shares the pain & stands firmly with our French sisters & brothers in this hour of immense sadness.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 15, 2016
The Indian ministry of external affairs has confirmed that there are no Indian casualties in the attacks.
#NiceAttack Our Ambassador in Paris is in touch with the Indian community in Nice. So far no report of any Indians affected
— Vikas Swarup (@MEAIndia) July 15, 2016