Saudi Arabia has led international reactions in condemning the shooting incident that occurred at the White House correspondents dinner in Washington, D.C., on Saturday, where former President Donald Trump and his wife Melania were evacuated from the Washington Hilton after gunshots were heard from the hotel lobby. The Kingdom expressed its rejection of all forms of violence and voiced solidarity with the United States, according to a statement from the foreign ministry.
Global leaders denounce the attack
The United Arab Emirates, through its foreign ministry, denounced the shooting as a 'deplorable crime' and expressed unwavering rejection of all forms of violence, extremism, and terrorism aimed at undermining security and stability. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni stated on social media that 'no political hatred can find space in our democracies' and emphasized the need to defend the culture of confrontation against intolerant drifts.
Reactions from key allies
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed shock at the attempted assassination but was relieved that the president and first lady were safe. Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi declared that 'violence can never be tolerated anywhere in the world' after the terrifying gunfire. European Commission Vice-President Kaja Kallas said political violence has no place in a democracy and wished a swift recovery to the injured officer.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed relief that all guests were safe and stressed that political violence has no place in any democracy. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese applauded the swift action of the Secret Service and law enforcement. British Ambassador to the United States Christian Turner thanked the Secret Service for their quick response and conveyed best wishes to the injured officer.
French President Emmanuel Macron called the attack unacceptable, stating that violence has no place in a democracy. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the attack on democratic institutions and freedom of the press. King Charles III was 'greatly relieved' that Trump and others were unharmed, with Buckingham Palace noting that discussions would take place regarding the impact on operational planning for the upcoming visit.
