New Zealanders have shown a unique way of mourning and paying respects to those killed in horrifying gun attacks on two <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Christchurch+shooting">Christchurch mosques</a>.&nbsp;In the&nbsp;shooting, over 50 people lost their lived on March 15.&nbsp;

As the country struggles to respond to the horrific tragedy, people are gathering at different places to stage impromptu performances of the "haka war dance" to show solidarity with a Muslim community shattered by the mass shooting.&nbsp;

They are singing hymns and message of support and performing the intimidating ceremonial dance which begins with fierce chants roughly translated as "I Live! I Die!".&nbsp;

The haka war dance, whose origins lie with the indigenous Maori community, includes&nbsp;thumping of chests, stomping of&nbsp;feet and sticking out tongues.&nbsp;

Also Watch: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/students-perform-traditional-haka-to-mourn-christchurch-shooting-victims-203980">Students perform traditional haka to mourn Christchurch shooting victims</a>

Maori are the indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand, who participate fully in the country's sporting culture.&nbsp;

They are even well-represented in rugby union, rugby league and netball teams at all levels.&nbsp;

The traditional dance became a global symbol of New Zealand as the battle cry of its national rugby team, the All Blacks.&nbsp;

The New Zealand national rugby union team performs a 'haka', a traditional Maori challenge, before international matches. It is believed that the dance is meant to scare the opponents.&nbsp;

But the haka is not only meant to intimidate, but also to mourn, melding both hostility and beauty into an outpouring of true emotion, said Te Kahautu Maxwell, a professor of Maori at Waikato University.&nbsp;

"Haka is used for death and mourning. It is an integral part of the Maori mourning process. Haka is used to show love and compassion. Haka is used to uplift the spirits of bereaved families," Maxwell said.&nbsp;

New Zealanders have shown a unique way of mourning and paying respects to those killed in horrifying gun attacks on two Christchurch mosques. In the shooting, over 50 people lost their lived on March 15.

New Zealanders have shown a unique way of mourning and paying respects to those killed in horrifying gun attacks on two Christchurch mosques. In the shooting, over 50 people lost their lived on March 15. As the country struggles to respond to the horrific tragedy, people are gathering at different places to stage impromptu performances of the "haka war dance" to show solidarity with a Muslim community shattered by the mass shooting. They are singing hymns and message of support and performing the intimidating ceremonial dance which begins with fierce chants roughly translated as "I Live! I Die!". The haka war dance, whose origins lie with the indigenous Maori community, includes thumping of chests, stomping of feet and sticking out tongues. Also Watch: Students perform traditional haka to mourn Christchurch shooting victims Maori are the indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand, who participate fully in the country's sporting culture. They are even well-represented in rugby union, rugby league and netball teams at all levels. The traditional dance became a global symbol of New Zealand as the battle cry of its national rugby team, the All Blacks. The New Zealand national rugby union team performs a 'haka', a traditional Maori challenge, before international matches. It is believed that the dance is meant to scare the opponents. But the haka is not only meant to intimidate, but also to mourn, melding both hostility and beauty into an outpouring of true emotion, said Te Kahautu Maxwell, a professor of Maori at Waikato University. "Haka is used for death and mourning. It is an integral part of the Maori mourning process. Haka is used to show love and compassion. Haka is used to uplift the spirits of bereaved families," Maxwell said.

Watch: Man performs emotional 'haka dance' to pay tribute to New Zealand mosque shooting victims

When Turkish vice-president Fuat Oktay and foreign minister Mevlut Cavusoglu became this weekend the first high-level foreign government delegation to travel to Christchurch they were doing more than expressing solidarity with New Zealand's grieving Muslim community.

Oktay and Cavusoglu were planting Turkey's flag far and wide in a global effort to expand beyond the Turkic and former Ottoman world support for President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's style of religiously-packaged authoritarian rule, a marriage of Islam and Turkish nationalism.

Showing footage of the rampage in Christchurch at a rally ahead of March 31 local elections, Erdogan declared that “There is a benefit in watching this on the screen. Remnants of the Crusaders cannot prevent Turkey’s rise.”

Erdogan went on to say that “We have been here for 1,000 years and God willing we will be until doomsday. You will not be able to make Istanbul Constantinople. Your ancestors came and saw that we were here. Some of them returned on foot and some returned in coffins. If you come with the same intent, we will be waiting for you too.”

Erdogan was responding to an assertion by Brenton Tarrant, the white supremacist perpetrator of the Christchurch attacks in which 50 people were killed in two mosques, that Turks were “ethnic soldiers currently occupying Europe.”

Oktay and Cavusoglu’s visit, two days after the attacks, is one more facet of a Turkish campaign that employs religious as well as traditional diplomatic tools.

The campaign aims to establish Turkey as a leader of the Muslim world in competition with Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and to a lesser degree Morocco.

As part of the campaign, Turkey has positioned itself as a cheerleader for Muslim causes such as Jerusalem and the Rohingya at a moment that Saudi Arabia, the UAE and other Muslim nations are taking a step back.

Although cautious not to rupture relations with Beijing, Turkey has also breached the wall of silence maintained by the vast majority of Muslim countries by speaking out against China’s brutal crackdown on Turkic Muslims in the troubled north-western province of Xinjiang.

Erdogan’s religious and traditional diplomatic effort has seen Turkey build grand mosques and/or cultural centres across the globe in the United States, the Caribbean, Europe, Africa and Asia, finance religious education and restore Ottoman heritage sites.

It has pressured governments in Africa and Asia to hand over schools operated by the Hizmet movement led by exiled preacher Fethullah Gulen. Erdogan holds Gulen responsible for the failed military coup in Turkey in 2016.

On the diplomatic front, Turkey has in recent years opened at least 26 embassies in Africa, expanded the Turkish Airlines network to 55 destinations in Africa, established military bases in Somalia and Qatar, and negotiated a long-term lease for Sudan’s Suakin Island in the Red Sea.

The Turkish religious campaign takes a leaf out of Saudi Arabia's four decades long, $100 billion effort to globally propagate ultra-conservative Sunni Islam.&nbsp;

Like the Saudis, Turkey’s Directorate of Religious Affairs (Diyanet) provides services to Muslim communities, organises pilgrimages to Mecca, trains religious personnel, publishes religious literature, translates the Qur’an into local languages and funds students from across the world to study Islam at Turkish institutions.

Turkish Muslim NGOs provide humanitarian assistance in former parts of the Ottoman empire, the Middle East and Africa much like the Saudi-led World Muslim League and other Saudi governmental -non-governmental organisations, many of which have been shut down since the 9/11 attacks on New York and Washington.

Saudi Arabia, since the rise of crown prince Mohammed bin Salman in 2015, has significantly reduced global funding for ultra-conservatism.

Nonetheless, Turkey is at loggerheads with Saudi Arabia as well as the UAE over the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi; Turkish support for Qatar in its dispute with the Saudis and Emiratis; differences over Libya, Syria and the Kurds; and Ankara’s activist foreign policy. Turkey is seeking to position itself as an Islamic alternative.

Decades of Saudi funding has left the kingdom’s imprint on the global Muslim community. Yet, Turkey’s current struggles with Saudi Arabia are more geopolitical than ideological.

While Turkey competes geopolitically with the UAE in the Horn of Africa, Libya and Syria, ideologically the two countries’ rivalry is between the UAE’s effort to establish itself as a centre of a quietist, apolitical Islam as opposed to Turkey’s activist approach and its support for the Muslim Brotherhood.

In contrast to Saudi Arabia that adheres to Wahhabism, an austere ultra-conservative interpretation of the faith, the UAE projects itself and its religiosity as far more modern, tolerant and forward-looking.

The UAE’s projection goes beyond Prince Mohammed’s attempt to shave off the raw edges of Wahhabism in an attempt to present himself as a proponent of what he has termed moderate Islam.

 
The UAE scored a significant success with the first-ever papal visit in February by Pope Francis during which he signed a document on human fraternity with Sheikh Ahmad al-Tayeb, the grand imam of Egypt’s Al-Azhar, the revered 1,000-year-old seat of Sunni Muslim learning.

 
The signing was the result of UAE-funded efforts of Egyptian general-turned-president Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi to depoliticise Islam and gain control of Al Azhar that Sheikh Al-Tayeb resisted despite supporting Al-Sisi’s 2013 military coup.

To enhance its influence within Al Azhar and counter that of Saudi Araba, the UAE has funded Egyptian universities and hospitals and has encouraged Al Azhar to open a branch in the UAE.

The UAE effort paid off when the pope, in a public address, thanked Egyptian judge Mohamed Abdel Salam, an advisor to Sheikh Al-Tayeb who is believed to be close to both the Emiratis and Al-Sisi, for drafting the declaration. “Abdel Salam enabled Al-Sisi to outmanoeuvre Al Azhar in the struggle for reform,” said an influential activist.

The Turkey-UAE rivalry has spilt from the geopolitical and ideological into competing versions of Islamic history. 
&nbsp;

 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

When Turkish vice-president Fuat Oktay and foreign minister Mevlut Cavusoglu became this weekend the first high-level foreign government delegation to travel to Christchurch they were doing more than expressing solidarity with New Zealand's grieving Muslim community.

When Turkish vice-president Fuat Oktay and foreign minister Mevlut Cavusoglu became this weekend the first high-level foreign government delegation to travel to Christchurch they were doing more than expressing solidarity with New Zealand's grieving Muslim community. Oktay and Cavusoglu were planting Turkey's flag far and wide in a global effort to expand beyond the Turkic and former Ottoman world support for President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's style of religiously-packaged authoritarian rule, a marriage of Islam and Turkish nationalism. Showing footage of the rampage in Christchurch at a rally ahead of March 31 local elections, Erdogan declared that “There is a benefit in watching this on the screen. Remnants of the Crusaders cannot prevent Turkey’s rise.” Erdogan went on to say that “We have been here for 1,000 years and God willing we will be until doomsday. You will not be able to make Istanbul Constantinople. Your ancestors came and saw that we were here. Some of them returned on foot and some returned in coffins. If you come with the same intent, we will be waiting for you too.” Erdogan was responding to an assertion by Brenton Tarrant, the white supremacist perpetrator of the Christchurch attacks in which 50 people were killed in two mosques, that Turks were “ethnic soldiers currently occupying Europe.” Oktay and Cavusoglu’s visit, two days after the attacks, is one more facet of a Turkish campaign that employs religious as well as traditional diplomatic tools. The campaign aims to establish Turkey as a leader of the Muslim world in competition with Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and to a lesser degree Morocco. As part of the campaign, Turkey has positioned itself as a cheerleader for Muslim causes such as Jerusalem and the Rohingya at a moment that Saudi Arabia, the UAE and other Muslim nations are taking a step back. Although cautious not to rupture relations with Beijing, Turkey has also breached the wall of silence maintained by the vast majority of Muslim countries by speaking out against China’s brutal crackdown on Turkic Muslims in the troubled north-western province of Xinjiang. Erdogan’s religious and traditional diplomatic effort has seen Turkey build grand mosques and/or cultural centres across the globe in the United States, the Caribbean, Europe, Africa and Asia, finance religious education and restore Ottoman heritage sites. It has pressured governments in Africa and Asia to hand over schools operated by the Hizmet movement led by exiled preacher Fethullah Gulen. Erdogan holds Gulen responsible for the failed military coup in Turkey in 2016. On the diplomatic front, Turkey has in recent years opened at least 26 embassies in Africa, expanded the Turkish Airlines network to 55 destinations in Africa, established military bases in Somalia and Qatar, and negotiated a long-term lease for Sudan’s Suakin Island in the Red Sea. The Turkish religious campaign takes a leaf out of Saudi Arabia's four decades long, $100 billion effort to globally propagate ultra-conservative Sunni Islam. Like the Saudis, Turkey’s Directorate of Religious Affairs (Diyanet) provides services to Muslim communities, organises pilgrimages to Mecca, trains religious personnel, publishes religious literature, translates the Qur’an into local languages and funds students from across the world to study Islam at Turkish institutions. Turkish Muslim NGOs provide humanitarian assistance in former parts of the Ottoman empire, the Middle East and Africa much like the Saudi-led World Muslim League and other Saudi governmental -non-governmental organisations, many of which have been shut down since the 9/11 attacks on New York and Washington. Saudi Arabia, since the rise of crown prince Mohammed bin Salman in 2015, has significantly reduced global funding for ultra-conservatism. Nonetheless, Turkey is at loggerheads with Saudi Arabia as well as the UAE over the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi; Turkish support for Qatar in its dispute with the Saudis and Emiratis; differences over Libya, Syria and the Kurds; and Ankara’s activist foreign policy. Turkey is seeking to position itself as an Islamic alternative. Decades of Saudi funding has left the kingdom’s imprint on the global Muslim community. Yet, Turkey’s current struggles with Saudi Arabia are more geopolitical than ideological. While Turkey competes geopolitically with the UAE in the Horn of Africa, Libya and Syria, ideologically the two countries’ rivalry is between the UAE’s effort to establish itself as a centre of a quietist, apolitical Islam as opposed to Turkey’s activist approach and its support for the Muslim Brotherhood. In contrast to Saudi Arabia that adheres to Wahhabism, an austere ultra-conservative interpretation of the faith, the UAE projects itself and its religiosity as far more modern, tolerant and forward-looking. The UAE’s projection goes beyond Prince Mohammed’s attempt to shave off the raw edges of Wahhabism in an attempt to present himself as a proponent of what he has termed moderate Islam. The UAE scored a significant success with the first-ever papal visit in February by Pope Francis during which he signed a document on human fraternity with Sheikh Ahmad al-Tayeb, the grand imam of Egypt’s Al-Azhar, the revered 1,000-year-old seat of Sunni Muslim learning. The signing was the result of UAE-funded efforts of Egyptian general-turned-president Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi to depoliticise Islam and gain control of Al Azhar that Sheikh Al-Tayeb resisted despite supporting Al-Sisi’s 2013 military coup. To enhance its influence within Al Azhar and counter that of Saudi Araba, the UAE has funded Egyptian universities and hospitals and has encouraged Al Azhar to open a branch in the UAE. The UAE effort paid off when the pope, in a public address, thanked Egyptian judge Mohamed Abdel Salam, an advisor to Sheikh Al-Tayeb who is believed to be close to both the Emiratis and Al-Sisi, for drafting the declaration. “Abdel Salam enabled Al-Sisi to outmanoeuvre Al Azhar in the struggle for reform,” said an influential activist. The Turkey-UAE rivalry has spilt from the geopolitical and ideological into competing versions of Islamic history. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Turkey positions itself as a prominent backer of Muslim community in New Zealand

Futsal goalkeeper Atta Elayyan&nbsp;was among those who lost their lives in New Zealand's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/49-killed-in-christchurch-mosque-attack-one-person-charged-new-zealand-police-203495">Christchurch mosque shooting</a>.&nbsp;

The New Zealanders mourn those killed in horrifying gun attacks on two Christchurch mosques that killed 50 people on March 15.&nbsp;

The Kuwait-born Elayyan, who was a devout Muslim, offered his last prayer before he was shot at the Masjid Al Noor Mosque, where is used to go regularly.&nbsp;

New Zealand futsal players and management paid tribute to Elayyan laying flowers by the Deans Avenue mosque, where he was killed.&nbsp;

He is survived by wife Farah and young daughter Aya.&nbsp;

In week's time, Elayyan was set to coach his Christchurch Boys' High School futsal team at the secondary school nationals.&nbsp;

The 33-year-old goalkeeper had played 19 A Internationals for the Futsal Whites, according to NZ Football.&nbsp;

Teammate Josh Margetts said, "There is a huge hole in our hearts as we come to terms with the loss of a great person and a good mate."

Elayyan passed on his goalkeeping wisdom to many young futsal players and inspired them&nbsp;to take up the sport.&nbsp;

He was popular for his approachable personality and always helped others.&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Can’t stop reading their stories. There is something about Atta Elayyan, a guy who was my age, and all the photos with his young family that won’t escape me. May Allah join us with them all in a better place. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/51lives?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#51lives</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Christchurch?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Christchurch</a> <a href="https://t.co/ljhRLyGM31">pic.twitter.com/ljhRLyGM31</a>
— Omar Suleiman (@omarsuleiman504) <a href="https://twitter.com/omarsuleiman504/status/1107298645479772162?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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After New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern described the Christchurch mosque assault as a "well-planned terror attack", police commissioner Mike Bush said one man was charged on Friday.&nbsp;

"One person, a male in his late 20s, has been charged with murder, and should appear in the Christchurch Court tomorrow morning," said New Zealand police commissioner Mike Bush.

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison had said that attacker was a "right-wing extremist with Australian citizenship".

Futsal goalkeeper Atta Elayyan was among those who lost their lives in New Zealand's Christchurch mosque shooting. The New Zealanders mourn those killed in horrifying gun attacks on two Christchurch mosques that killed 50 people on March 15.

Futsal goalkeeper Atta Elayyan was among those who lost their lives in New Zealand's Christchurch mosque shooting. The New Zealanders mourn those killed in horrifying gun attacks on two Christchurch mosques that killed 50 people on March 15. The Kuwait-born Elayyan, who was a devout Muslim, offered his last prayer before he was shot at the Masjid Al Noor Mosque, where is used to go regularly. New Zealand futsal players and management paid tribute to Elayyan laying flowers by the Deans Avenue mosque, where he was killed. He is survived by wife Farah and young daughter Aya. In week's time, Elayyan was set to coach his Christchurch Boys' High School futsal team at the secondary school nationals. The 33-year-old goalkeeper had played 19 A Internationals for the Futsal Whites, according to NZ Football. Teammate Josh Margetts said, "There is a huge hole in our hearts as we come to terms with the loss of a great person and a good mate." Elayyan passed on his goalkeeping wisdom to many young futsal players and inspired them to take up the sport. He was popular for his approachable personality and always helped others. Can’t stop reading their stories. There is something about Atta Elayyan, a guy who was my age, and all the photos with his young family that won’t escape me. May Allah join us with them all in a better place. #51lives #Christchurch pic.twitter.com/ljhRLyGM31 — Omar Suleiman (@omarsuleiman504) March 17, 2019 × After New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern described the Christchurch mosque assault as a "well-planned terror attack", police commissioner Mike Bush said one man was charged on Friday. "One person, a male in his late 20s, has been charged with murder, and should appear in the Christchurch Court tomorrow morning," said New Zealand police commissioner Mike Bush. Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison had said that attacker was a "right-wing extremist with Australian citizenship".

Atta Elayyan: An inspiring goalkeeper who died in New Zealand mosque shooting

30 still injured in Christchurch hospital, 9 under critical condition

Three people have been killed and nine injured after a gunman opened fire on a tram in the Dutch city of Utrecht.

"At this stage, we can confirm three deaths and nine wounded, three of them seriously," Utrecht Mayor Jan van Zanen said in a video statement on Twitter.

Head of Dutch counter-terrorism agency said that shooting was taking place at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/holland-shooting-possible-terrorist-motive-in-utrecht-says-police-204084">"several" locations at Utrecht city</a> in Holland,&nbsp;Reuters reported after a gunman opened fire at a tram on Monday morning.

Police quickly moved in to cordon off the area even as a government spokesman said one person was killed in the attack.

Police said it was investigating the incident as a "possible terrorist motive". The gunman opened fire and fled, eyewitnesses said. According to police, the incident occurred at 10:45am(local time).&nbsp;

"Several shots were fired in a tram and several people were injured. Helicopters are at the scene and no arrests have been made," said police spokesman Joost Lanshage.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Mark Rutte convened crisis talks, saying he was deeply concerned about the incident.&nbsp;

Authorities raised the terrorism&nbsp;threat to its highest level in Utrecht province as schools were told to shut their doors and paramilitary police increased security at airports and other vital infrastructure. Security was also stepped up at mosques.

The shooting incident comes just days after a man killed 49 people at mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand.

Utrecht police said the tram station stop in a square outside the city centre had been cordoned off. Emergency services were at the scene.

The Netherlands has boosted security at airports and other key buildings after the shooting, Dutch military police said.
<img alt="Tram attack in Utrecht, Holland" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3c9497ce-ea66-4d3b-9050-865e4bd33372" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Utrecht%20tram.jpg" />
&nbsp;

Three people have been killed and nine injured after a gunman opened fire on a tram in the Dutch city of Utrecht. "At this stage, we can confirm three deaths and nine wounded, three of them seriously," Utrecht Mayor Jan van Zanen said in a video statement on Twitter.

Three people have been killed and nine injured after a gunman opened fire on a tram in the Dutch city of Utrecht. "At this stage, we can confirm three deaths and nine wounded, three of them seriously," Utrecht Mayor Jan van Zanen said in a video statement on Twitter. Head of Dutch counter-terrorism agency said that shooting was taking place at "several" locations at Utrecht city in Holland, Reuters reported after a gunman opened fire at a tram on Monday morning. Police quickly moved in to cordon off the area even as a government spokesman said one person was killed in the attack. Police said it was investigating the incident as a "possible terrorist motive". The gunman opened fire and fled, eyewitnesses said. According to police, the incident occurred at 10:45am(local time). "Several shots were fired in a tram and several people were injured. Helicopters are at the scene and no arrests have been made," said police spokesman Joost Lanshage. Prime Minister Mark Rutte convened crisis talks, saying he was deeply concerned about the incident. Authorities raised the terrorism threat to its highest level in Utrecht province as schools were told to shut their doors and paramilitary police increased security at airports and other vital infrastructure. Security was also stepped up at mosques. The shooting incident comes just days after a man killed 49 people at mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand. Utrecht police said the tram station stop in a square outside the city centre had been cordoned off. Emergency services were at the scene. The Netherlands has boosted security at airports and other key buildings after the shooting, Dutch military police said.

Shooting at several locations in Holland's Utrecht city: Anti-terrorism agency

Indonesia summoned Canberra's ambassador Monday after an<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-have-made-a-decision-we-are-unified-pm-ardern-says-new-zealand-will-tighten-gun-laws-204011"> Australian senator blamed </a>last week's mosque attacks by a white supremacist in New Zealand on immigration.

Indonesian foreign minister Retno Marsudi said she had called ambassador Gary Quinlan to her office to convey the Muslim majority country's "strong condemnation" of Queensland Senator Fraser Anning's controversial comments.

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The people killed in Friday's massacre in Christchurch included one Indonesian, while another was seriously injured.

"Ambassador Quinlan conveyed his reassurance that the statement made by Senator Anning does not reflect the position and sentiments of the government and the people of Australia," Marsudi said.

She added: "Indonesia strongly condemns this act of terrorism which has no place in New Zealand or anywhere else in this world."

On Friday, Anning said in a statement the attack in the southern New Zealand city was the result of Muslim immigration into the country.&nbsp;

Anning's remarks drew condemnation from across the political spectrum in Australia.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison described the comments as "appalling" and "ugly" with "no place in Australia", as he announced a bipartisan motion of censure would be launched.

Former PM Kevin Rudd dubbed Anning a "racist and a fascist", and encouraged Australians to sign a petition calling for him to be booted out of parliament.

On Saturday, Anning - elected in 2017 by a fluke of Australia's proportional voting system, having received only 19 first preference votes - had to be restrained after punching a teenager who threw an egg at him in protest over his comments.

Indonesia summoned Canberra's ambassador Monday after an Australian senator blamed last week's mosque attacks by a white supremacist in New Zealand on immigration.

Indonesia summoned Canberra's ambassador Monday after an Australian senator blamed last week's mosque attacks by a white supremacist in New Zealand on immigration. Indonesian foreign minister Retno Marsudi said she had called ambassador Gary Quinlan to her office to convey the Muslim majority country's "strong condemnation" of Queensland Senator Fraser Anning's controversial comments. The people killed in Friday's massacre in Christchurch included one Indonesian, while another was seriously injured. "Ambassador Quinlan conveyed his reassurance that the statement made by Senator Anning does not reflect the position and sentiments of the government and the people of Australia," Marsudi said. She added: "Indonesia strongly condemns this act of terrorism which has no place in New Zealand or anywhere else in this world." On Friday, Anning said in a statement the attack in the southern New Zealand city was the result of Muslim immigration into the country. Anning's remarks drew condemnation from across the political spectrum in Australia. Prime Minister Scott Morrison described the comments as "appalling" and "ugly" with "no place in Australia", as he announced a bipartisan motion of censure would be launched. Former PM Kevin Rudd dubbed Anning a "racist and a fascist", and encouraged Australians to sign a petition calling for him to be booted out of parliament. On Saturday, Anning - elected in 2017 by a fluke of Australia's proportional voting system, having received only 19 first preference votes - had to be restrained after punching a teenager who threw an egg at him in protest over his comments.

Indonesia summons Australian foreign minister over Senator's remark

'Our gun laws will change' says NZ Prime Minister

The carnage in Christchurch has sent shock waves across the Indian Ocean. Distant New Zealand suddenly has unmasked the horribly ugly face of racism that is on the rise almost everywhere in the western world and is often married to religious bigotry of the worst kind. Unfortunately, the demonisation of ‘Islamic Terror’ has diverted our attention from brutalities perpetrated by White psychopaths. After, the attack on the Noor Masjid it is impossible to turn a blind eye to the ghastliness that threatens to target us. &nbsp; 
 
Let there be no mistake we, the people of the sub-continent, are the primary target of those who can no longer be dismissed as the mentally disturbed, socially dysfunctional microscopic minority. Descendants of those who perpetrated genocide against indigenous people now have assumed the responsibility of cleansing ‘their land’ of outsiders/interlopers/immigrants. They daren’t incur the wrath of China but the open season has been declared on Asians-mostly Indians and Pakistanis. True, Turks are mentioned in the same breath but it is south Asians who comprise the largest section of visible aliens- hard working, irritatingly, prosperous, upwardly mobile. In New Zealand alone Indian population approximates 200,000 of which 20,000 are students. Australia is the first choice of those Indians looking in the South Easterly direction and understandably these numbers are larger there.&nbsp; 
 
What is disturbing is that our government has been working overtime to forge closer economic and strategic ties with countries in this region. The QUAD is conceived as a counterpoise to China and we have been happily opening our markets to produce from Australia. Synergies in diverse fields from mining to technology are repeatedly harped upon.

But can any real progress be made in the face of violent racial prejudice and climate of hate? It may be argued that what happened is an unfortunate accident and its unfair to hold the country responsible for it. It must be admitted that the New Zealand prime minister has promptly condemned the atrocity as an act of terrorism and made it clear that all who dwell in that country ‘are our own’. Still, it is not easy to be reassured. The fair-skinned imperialists who colonised Asia and Africa in the 18th-19th century are extremely reluctant to treat those with darker skin and practising a different faith as equals. The only language they understand is of power.&nbsp; 
 
A few years back the Skull Heads and Punks in London bragged about ‘Dot Busting’ and ‘Paki Bashing.’ Then started the attacks on Mom and Pop stores in US towns and cities. Nor have the university campuses remained safe for Indian students. Most regrettably the election of Donald Trump as the POTUS has aggravated the situation drastically. All this talk of building a wall to keep away the Mexicans, Cubans and sundry Hispanics has only fuelled racist prejudices. Tidal waves of Syrian and other refugees hitting European shores has unnerved many governments.&nbsp;

No one, however, has the time to recall what has rendered these wretched people homeless. Hadn’t the US so ruthlessly implemented a policy of regime change in the Middle East/West Asia the ‘White Christian Civilisation’ wouldn’t have been imperilled. Climate Change is a reality that has triggered a Tsunamis of Hate. From Germany to Sweden, from the US to Australia White Supremacists have been emboldened to embark on a reckless path of revenge and retribution. Restraint and reconciliation are for the meek and weak.&nbsp; 
 
Distance for most of us remains a geographical concept. Countries situated far away are not viewed as neighbours or significant in bilateral relations. Emotional distance is no less problematic. Neighbours next-door (Pakistan and China, for instance) often are perceived (and act) as enemies. This makes it almost impossible to resolve inherited disputes or irritants that crop up in the to time. Friends far away appear attractive allies. 
 
Why the tragic events in New Zealand have agitated us so much is for this reason that geographical distance should not lull us into a false sense of security. This time it was the Bangladeshi Cricket Team that had a narrow escape. Next time someone from India may not be so lucky. The Bell that is tolling is tolling for us.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.) 
&nbsp;

The carnage in Christchurch has sent shock waves across the Indian Ocean. Distant New Zealand suddenly has unmasked the horribly ugly face of racism that is on the rise almost everywhere in the western world and is often married to religious bigotry of the worst kind.

The carnage in Christchurch has sent shock waves across the Indian Ocean. Distant New Zealand suddenly has unmasked the horribly ugly face of racism that is on the rise almost everywhere in the western world and is often married to religious bigotry of the worst kind. Unfortunately, the demonisation of ‘Islamic Terror’ has diverted our attention from brutalities perpetrated by White psychopaths. After, the attack on the Noor Masjid it is impossible to turn a blind eye to the ghastliness that threatens to target us. Let there be no mistake we, the people of the sub-continent, are the primary target of those who can no longer be dismissed as the mentally disturbed, socially dysfunctional microscopic minority. Descendants of those who perpetrated genocide against indigenous people now have assumed the responsibility of cleansing ‘their land’ of outsiders/interlopers/immigrants. They daren’t incur the wrath of China but the open season has been declared on Asians-mostly Indians and Pakistanis. True, Turks are mentioned in the same breath but it is south Asians who comprise the largest section of visible aliens- hard working, irritatingly, prosperous, upwardly mobile. In New Zealand alone Indian population approximates 200,000 of which 20,000 are students. Australia is the first choice of those Indians looking in the South Easterly direction and understandably these numbers are larger there. What is disturbing is that our government has been working overtime to forge closer economic and strategic ties with countries in this region. The QUAD is conceived as a counterpoise to China and we have been happily opening our markets to produce from Australia. Synergies in diverse fields from mining to technology are repeatedly harped upon. But can any real progress be made in the face of violent racial prejudice and climate of hate? It may be argued that what happened is an unfortunate accident and its unfair to hold the country responsible for it. It must be admitted that the New Zealand prime minister has promptly condemned the atrocity as an act of terrorism and made it clear that all who dwell in that country ‘are our own’. Still, it is not easy to be reassured. The fair-skinned imperialists who colonised Asia and Africa in the 18th-19th century are extremely reluctant to treat those with darker skin and practising a different faith as equals. The only language they understand is of power. A few years back the Skull Heads and Punks in London bragged about ‘Dot Busting’ and ‘Paki Bashing.’ Then started the attacks on Mom and Pop stores in US towns and cities. Nor have the university campuses remained safe for Indian students. Most regrettably the election of Donald Trump as the POTUS has aggravated the situation drastically. All this talk of building a wall to keep away the Mexicans, Cubans and sundry Hispanics has only fuelled racist prejudices. Tidal waves of Syrian and other refugees hitting European shores has unnerved many governments. No one, however, has the time to recall what has rendered these wretched people homeless. Hadn’t the US so ruthlessly implemented a policy of regime change in the Middle East/West Asia the ‘White Christian Civilisation’ wouldn’t have been imperilled. Climate Change is a reality that has triggered a Tsunamis of Hate. From Germany to Sweden, from the US to Australia White Supremacists have been emboldened to embark on a reckless path of revenge and retribution. Restraint and reconciliation are for the meek and weak. Distance for most of us remains a geographical concept. Countries situated far away are not viewed as neighbours or significant in bilateral relations. Emotional distance is no less problematic. Neighbours next-door (Pakistan and China, for instance) often are perceived (and act) as enemies. This makes it almost impossible to resolve inherited disputes or irritants that crop up in the to time. Friends far away appear attractive allies. Why the tragic events in New Zealand have agitated us so much is for this reason that geographical distance should not lull us into a false sense of security. This time it was the Bangladeshi Cricket Team that had a narrow escape. Next time someone from India may not be so lucky. The Bell that is tolling is tolling for us. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

New Zealand massacre: Lack of racial empathy a major cause of concern for Asians

Student perform 'Haka' in Christchurch to honour terror attack victims

Five Indians were among the 50 people killed in a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pak-foreign-office-confirms-deaths-of-six-pakistanis-in-new-zealand-terror-attack-203741">terror attack on Al Noor mosque</a> in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-mosque-shootings-kill-49-in-what-pm-calls-terrorist-attack-203560">Christchurch in New Zealand</a>, the Indian high commission said Sunday.

The attacker, identified by authorities as Australia-born Brenton Tarrant, 28, targeted immigrants during Friday prayers. Victims were shot at close range.

The high commission confirmed on Sunday that five Indians were killed in the attack.

"With a very heavy heart we share the news of the loss of precious lives of our 5 nationals in a ghastly terror attack in #Christchurch," it tweeted.

It identified them as: Maheboob Khokhar; Ramiz Vora; Asif Vora; Ansi Alibava; and Ozair Kadir.

<img alt="New Zealand terror attack" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="035f4d22-412e-453f-83a6-6c658d7a44cf" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Al%20Noor%20Mosque.JPG" /> 
 
(A view of the Al Noor Mosque on Deans Avenue in Christchurch, New Zealand. Image source: Reuters)

In another tweet, the high commission informed that Immigration NZ has set up a dedicated webpage to expedite a visa for family members of Christchurch victims.&nbsp;

On Friday, shortly after the attack, India's High Commissioner in New Zealand Sanjiv Kohli had tweeted that "there are 9 missing persons of Indian nationality/origin". But, he had added, official confirmation was awaited.

The high commission said its helpline numbers 021803899 &amp; 021850033 will remain available round the clock to assist families of the those affected by the attack.

"We deeply mourn the loss of all other innocent lives including people of Indian origin."

It also said a group of Community leaders is being constituted in Christchurch and their names and numbers will be circulated shortly.

Meanwhile, it added, those who need assistance while transiting through Auckland may contact 021531212.

In a 74-page manifesto the attacker posted online, he described himself as a white supremacist who was out to avenge attacks in Europe perpetrated by Muslims.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has called the attack terrorism.

Expressing India's solidarity with the people of New Zealand, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said hatred and violence have no place in diverse and democratic societies.

About 200,000 Indian and Indian-origin people live in New Zealand. Over 30,000 of them are students, according to the Indian High Commission's data available on its website.

Five Indians were among the 50 people killed in a terror attack on Al Noor mosque in Christchurch in New Zealand, the Indian high commission said Sunday. The attacker, identified by authorities as Australia-born Brenton Tarrant, 28, targeted immigrants during Friday prayers.

Five Indians were among the 50 people killed in a terror attack on Al Noor mosque in Christchurch in New Zealand, the Indian high commission said Sunday. The attacker, identified by authorities as Australia-born Brenton Tarrant, 28, targeted immigrants during Friday prayers. Victims were shot at close range. The high commission confirmed on Sunday that five Indians were killed in the attack. "With a very heavy heart we share the news of the loss of precious lives of our 5 nationals in a ghastly terror attack in #Christchurch," it tweeted. It identified them as: Maheboob Khokhar; Ramiz Vora; Asif Vora; Ansi Alibava; and Ozair Kadir. (A view of the Al Noor Mosque on Deans Avenue in Christchurch, New Zealand. Image source: Reuters) In another tweet, the high commission informed that Immigration NZ has set up a dedicated webpage to expedite a visa for family members of Christchurch victims. On Friday, shortly after the attack, India's High Commissioner in New Zealand Sanjiv Kohli had tweeted that "there are 9 missing persons of Indian nationality/origin". But, he had added, official confirmation was awaited. The high commission said its helpline numbers 021803899 & 021850033 will remain available round the clock to assist families of the those affected by the attack. "We deeply mourn the loss of all other innocent lives including people of Indian origin." It also said a group of Community leaders is being constituted in Christchurch and their names and numbers will be circulated shortly. Meanwhile, it added, those who need assistance while transiting through Auckland may contact 021531212. In a 74-page manifesto the attacker posted online, he described himself as a white supremacist who was out to avenge attacks in Europe perpetrated by Muslims. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has called the attack terrorism. Expressing India's solidarity with the people of New Zealand, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said hatred and violence have no place in diverse and democratic societies. About 200,000 Indian and Indian-origin people live in New Zealand. Over 30,000 of them are students, according to the Indian High Commission's data available on its website.

New Zealand mosque attack: 5 Indians among dead, toll rises to 50

Accounts emerged on Sunday of heroic attempts to tackle a gunman who slaughtered 50 people at two mosques in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-mosque-shootings-kill-49-in-what-pm-calls-terrorist-attack-203560">New Zealand</a>, as authorities prepared to begin releasing the bodies of victims to their families for burial.

Australian Brenton Tarrant, 28, a suspected white supremacist, was charged with murder on Saturday. Tarrant was remanded without a plea and is due back in court on April 5 where police said he was likely to face more charges.

Friday's attack in the city of Christchurch, which Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-is-not-new-zealand-prime-minister-jacinda-ardern-203669">Jacinda Ardern</a> labeled terrorism, was the worst ever peacetime mass killing in New Zealand.

Ardern also said she wanted to talk to Facebook, as footage of the attack on one of the mosques was broadcast live on Facebook, and a 'manifesto'&nbsp;denouncing immigrants as 'invaders'&nbsp;was posted online via links to related social media accounts minutes before the violence began.

Amid the shock, outrage, and recriminations that have consumed New Zealand over the past two days, tales of heroism and self-sacrifice emerged.

Abdul Aziz, 48, was hailed for confronting the shooter at the second mosque and preventing more deaths.

Aziz, originally from Afghanistan, ran outside after the shooting started and picked up a shotgun that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gunman-was-very-calm-during-the-rampage-survivors-tell-of-new-zealand-mosque-shootings-203612">gunman</a> had dropped. The gun had no shells in it, he said.

'I chased him,'&nbsp;Aziz said. 'He sat in his car and with the shotgun in my hands, I threw it through his window like an arrow. He just swore at me and took off.'

Another man, Naeem Rashid from Pakistan, was seen on the gunman's video confronting the shooter before he was killed, the BBC reported. Rashid's 21-year-old son, Talha, was also killed.

The death toll climbed to 50 when police found another body at the Al Noor mosque, where more than 40 people died after a gunman burst in and opened fire on worshippers with a semi-automatic rifle with high-capacity magazines, driving to attack a second mosque.

Police rammed the suspect's vehicle and arrested him as he drove away from the second mosque in the suburb of Linwood.

Police Commissioner Mike Bush said the man was apprehended 36 minutes after police were alerted and he was the only person charged in connection with the shootings. Three people detained earlier were not involved, he said.

&nbsp;

'INCOMPREHENSIBLE' 
&nbsp;

Huge piles of flowers were laid at sites near the mosques and crowds of people of all faiths gathered to pay respects. Some played guitar, sang and lit candles as darkness fell.

Members of a Maori motorbike gang performed a haka war-dance at one site.

Church services for the victims were held, including at Christchurch's "Cardboard Cathedral", a temporary structure built after a 2011 earthquake.

But the priority for grieving family and friends on Sunday was laying their loved ones to rest. It is customary in Islam to bury the dead within 24 hours but no bodies have been released because of the investigation, police said.

Ardern said victims would be handed over to families from Sunday evening.

"It is likely, however, to be a small number, to begin with," she told a media briefing, adding that all should be returned by Wednesday.

Wearing a black scarf, Ardern hugged members of the Muslim community at a refugee center on Saturday, saying she would ensure freedom of religion.

Thirty-four people were in Christchurch Hospital, with 12 in intensive care, while a child was moved to a children's hospital in Auckland.

Greg Robertson, head of surgery at Christchurch Hospital said the staff was used to gunshots and other severe injuries, but the scale and nature of the attacks were different.

'The magnitude of this is the thing that is the most significant issue for people. It's just comprehending what is incomprehensible.'

The majority of victims were migrants or refugees from countries such as Pakistan, India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Turkey, Somalia, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh.

The youngest was a three-year-old boy, according to an unofficial list of the dead.

Pakistan's high commissioner said six citizens had been killed and three were missing. Five Indians were killed, it's High Commission said.

&nbsp;

GUN LAW 'WILL CHANGE' 
&nbsp;

Tarrant did not have a criminal history and was not on any watchlists in New Zealand or Australia.

Ardern said a 'manifesto'&nbsp;was emailed to more than 30 recipients including her office, nine minutes before the attack but it gave no location or specific details. She said her office sent it to parliamentary security two minutes after getting it.

In the manifesto, which was also posted online, Tarrant described himself as 'Just an ordinary White man, 28 years old'&nbsp;who used profits from cryptocurrency trading to finance travels through Europe from 2016-2018.

The shootings have raised new questions about violence being disseminated online. Facebook said it had removed 1.5 million videos of the attack in the first 24 hours, and it was also removing all edited versions, even those without graphic content.

Ardern told the briefing that she had been contacted by Facebook operations chief Sheryl Sandberg who had acknowledged what had happened.

'This is an issue that I will look to be discussing directly with Facebook,'&nbsp;Ardern said.

The violence has also shone a new light on gun control.

Ardern said Tarrant was a licensed gun owner who allegedly used five weapons, including two semi-automatic weapons and two shotguns, which had been modified. She said a ban on semi-automatic weapons would be considered.

'We cannot be deterred from the work that we need to do on our gun laws,'&nbsp;Ardern said. 'They will change.'

Media has reported a rush to buy guns before any ban is brought in.

New Zealand has tried to tighten laws before but a strong gun lobby and culture of hunting has stymied efforts.

There are an estimated 1.5 million firearms in New Zealand, which has a population of only 5 million, but it has had low levels of gun violence.

Accounts emerged on Sunday of heroic attempts to tackle a gunman who slaughtered 50 people at two mosques in New Zealand, as authorities prepared to begin releasing the bodies of victims to their families for burial.

Accounts emerged on Sunday of heroic attempts to tackle a gunman who slaughtered 50 people at two mosques in New Zealand, as authorities prepared to begin releasing the bodies of victims to their families for burial. Australian Brenton Tarrant, 28, a suspected white supremacist, was charged with murder on Saturday. Tarrant was remanded without a plea and is due back in court on April 5 where police said he was likely to face more charges. Friday's attack in the city of Christchurch, which Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern labeled terrorism, was the worst ever peacetime mass killing in New Zealand. Ardern also said she wanted to talk to Facebook, as footage of the attack on one of the mosques was broadcast live on Facebook, and a 'manifesto' denouncing immigrants as 'invaders' was posted online via links to related social media accounts minutes before the violence began. Amid the shock, outrage, and recriminations that have consumed New Zealand over the past two days, tales of heroism and self-sacrifice emerged. Abdul Aziz, 48, was hailed for confronting the shooter at the second mosque and preventing more deaths. Aziz, originally from Afghanistan, ran outside after the shooting started and picked up a shotgun that the gunman had dropped. The gun had no shells in it, he said. 'I chased him,' Aziz said. 'He sat in his car and with the shotgun in my hands, I threw it through his window like an arrow. He just swore at me and took off.' Another man, Naeem Rashid from Pakistan, was seen on the gunman's video confronting the shooter before he was killed, the BBC reported. Rashid's 21-year-old son, Talha, was also killed. The death toll climbed to 50 when police found another body at the Al Noor mosque, where more than 40 people died after a gunman burst in and opened fire on worshippers with a semi-automatic rifle with high-capacity magazines, driving to attack a second mosque. Police rammed the suspect's vehicle and arrested him as he drove away from the second mosque in the suburb of Linwood. Police Commissioner Mike Bush said the man was apprehended 36 minutes after police were alerted and he was the only person charged in connection with the shootings. Three people detained earlier were not involved, he said. 'INCOMPREHENSIBLE' Huge piles of flowers were laid at sites near the mosques and crowds of people of all faiths gathered to pay respects. Some played guitar, sang and lit candles as darkness fell. Members of a Maori motorbike gang performed a haka war-dance at one site. Church services for the victims were held, including at Christchurch's "Cardboard Cathedral", a temporary structure built after a 2011 earthquake. But the priority for grieving family and friends on Sunday was laying their loved ones to rest. It is customary in Islam to bury the dead within 24 hours but no bodies have been released because of the investigation, police said. Ardern said victims would be handed over to families from Sunday evening. "It is likely, however, to be a small number, to begin with," she told a media briefing, adding that all should be returned by Wednesday. Wearing a black scarf, Ardern hugged members of the Muslim community at a refugee center on Saturday, saying she would ensure freedom of religion. Thirty-four people were in Christchurch Hospital, with 12 in intensive care, while a child was moved to a children's hospital in Auckland. Greg Robertson, head of surgery at Christchurch Hospital said the staff was used to gunshots and other severe injuries, but the scale and nature of the attacks were different. 'The magnitude of this is the thing that is the most significant issue for people. It's just comprehending what is incomprehensible.' The majority of victims were migrants or refugees from countries such as Pakistan, India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Turkey, Somalia, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh. The youngest was a three-year-old boy, according to an unofficial list of the dead. Pakistan's high commissioner said six citizens had been killed and three were missing. Five Indians were killed, it's High Commission said. GUN LAW 'WILL CHANGE' Tarrant did not have a criminal history and was not on any watchlists in New Zealand or Australia. Ardern said a 'manifesto' was emailed to more than 30 recipients including her office, nine minutes before the attack but it gave no location or specific details. She said her office sent it to parliamentary security two minutes after getting it. In the manifesto, which was also posted online, Tarrant described himself as 'Just an ordinary White man, 28 years old' who used profits from cryptocurrency trading to finance travels through Europe from 2016-2018. The shootings have raised new questions about violence being disseminated online. Facebook said it had removed 1.5 million videos of the attack in the first 24 hours, and it was also removing all edited versions, even those without graphic content. Ardern told the briefing that she had been contacted by Facebook operations chief Sheryl Sandberg who had acknowledged what had happened. 'This is an issue that I will look to be discussing directly with Facebook,' Ardern said. The violence has also shone a new light on gun control. Ardern said Tarrant was a licensed gun owner who allegedly used five weapons, including two semi-automatic weapons and two shotguns, which had been modified. She said a ban on semi-automatic weapons would be considered. 'We cannot be deterred from the work that we need to do on our gun laws,' Ardern said. 'They will change.' Media has reported a rush to buy guns before any ban is brought in. New Zealand has tried to tighten laws before but a strong gun lobby and culture of hunting has stymied efforts. There are an estimated 1.5 million firearms in New Zealand, which has a population of only 5 million, but it has had low levels of gun violence.

Accounts emerge of heroism in New Zealand mosques; bodies to be released

What could prompt a person to mow down Muslim worshippers in a mosque who had congregated there for the Friday prayer? Sheer hatred is the answer. But, where does or did this hatred come from? Through context and “subterranean” currents and winds. The obvious reference here is to the killing of many Muslim worshippers in New Zealand. That the carnage occurred in this country is not only surprising but also alarming. New Zealand, in almost all indices, score(d) high intolerance, integration of minorities into the body politic and society and general interfaith peace and amity that obtained in the country. But, it is now witnessed to the carnage that is not only unprecedented but horrendous.

The very fact that the carnage occurred in New Zealand must make powers that be, across the Western world introspect. There is a severe problem within that must be addressed before it assumes disastrous proportions. The problem is Islamophobia which roughly means “hatred, prejudice and bias toward Muslims and Islam”. The Christchurch Mosque shootings are but one manifestation of this scourge and blight. This noxious concept or idea is not novel; it actually harks backs to the Crusades when Islam and the West entered into a&nbsp;centuries-long confrontation of a political and military nature. The dynamic of the Crusades was such that both Islam and the West defined themselves against each other. That is, each held the other to be its “Other”.&nbsp;

In the ensuing melee, what may called “narrational” or narrative and discursive war ensued that sought a toxic denigration of either? Narrative and discourse, especially the noxious variety, are not innocent; neither are these ephemeral. These are long duree in nature and can shape the historical memory and consciousness of a given people. It is this centuries-old discourse and narrative that could be said to determine the tenor of relations between Islam and the West. And, it is these twin themes, given impetus by events and developments across the world, that could be held to be the incubus of the shooting and killings in New Zealand.&nbsp;

It is then context that bred the killer responsible for the killings. This is not to exonerate the murderer and his cowardly act but to put matters into perspective. &nbsp;The brutal coward is, in the final analysis, a foot soldier and executor of an idea or noxious ideology that denigrates, hates, and wants Muslims exterminated. While, in the realm of immediacy, the man and his accomplices must face the full force of law, but the larger and the more compelling challenge is to check the evil and noxious theme of Islamophobia in the West.&nbsp;

Be it Trump’s the United States, or Marie le Pen’s France or the growing salience of right-wing parties in Europe, all seek to use Muslims as the “Other” to push their nasty and noxious political agendas. In this sense then, a ghastly event like the New Zealand carnage was perhaps waiting to happen. While there have been condemnations of the terror attack, but these are tepid and not enough. It is the context and the climate that Islamophobia generates that must be dealt with, firmly and strenuously. First and foremost, the attack must be called and dealt with as a pure act of terrorism. And, then the toxicity of the underlying ideologies that incubate it in the Western world must be taken on.&nbsp;

All this becomes salient and poignant in a world where, despite the derailing of the momentum of globalisation, which entails movement of diverse peoples across the world, Islam and the West meet again, albeit in a different context, scale and scope. A fearful minority within the West is neither salubrious nor called for. Islam and Muslims within the West are a reality that cannot be wished away. They are there to stay. It is then incumbent upon powers that be in the West to make Muslims within feel safe and secure. Moreover, it is in the nature of an imperative for the West to introspect and actually hark back to the principles and philosophies that are its defining features, tolerance and countenancing diversity being salient ones. The starting point of this review would be confronted Islamophobia and the toxic forces that give rise to it.&nbsp;

Last but not least, Muslims within the West and across the world must not tar Westerners with the same brush and hold them to be the equivalent of the Christchurch killer. This would amount to giving in and caving to the real agendas of those who are behind the killings. We, Muslims, across the world, must demonstrate grace, poise, the expansiveness of vision and belief, which correspond and mesh with the great and holy principles of Islam. Our reaction, as our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of the odious and horrendous attack must be measured and sober. We must not give ammunition to the detractors and ill-wishers of our faith and religion. Let peace prevail. Salaam!&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

What could prompt a person to mow down Muslim worshippers in a mosque who had congregated there for the Friday prayer? Sheer hatred is the answer. But, where does or did this hatred come from?

What could prompt a person to mow down Muslim worshippers in a mosque who had congregated there for the Friday prayer? Sheer hatred is the answer. But, where does or did this hatred come from? Through context and “subterranean” currents and winds. The obvious reference here is to the killing of many Muslim worshippers in New Zealand. That the carnage occurred in this country is not only surprising but also alarming. New Zealand, in almost all indices, score(d) high intolerance, integration of minorities into the body politic and society and general interfaith peace and amity that obtained in the country. But, it is now witnessed to the carnage that is not only unprecedented but horrendous. The very fact that the carnage occurred in New Zealand must make powers that be, across the Western world introspect. There is a severe problem within that must be addressed before it assumes disastrous proportions. The problem is Islamophobia which roughly means “hatred, prejudice and bias toward Muslims and Islam”. The Christchurch Mosque shootings are but one manifestation of this scourge and blight. This noxious concept or idea is not novel; it actually harks backs to the Crusades when Islam and the West entered into a centuries-long confrontation of a political and military nature. The dynamic of the Crusades was such that both Islam and the West defined themselves against each other. That is, each held the other to be its “Other”. In the ensuing melee, what may called “narrational” or narrative and discursive war ensued that sought a toxic denigration of either? Narrative and discourse, especially the noxious variety, are not innocent; neither are these ephemeral. These are long duree in nature and can shape the historical memory and consciousness of a given people. It is this centuries-old discourse and narrative that could be said to determine the tenor of relations between Islam and the West. And, it is these twin themes, given impetus by events and developments across the world, that could be held to be the incubus of the shooting and killings in New Zealand. It is then context that bred the killer responsible for the killings. This is not to exonerate the murderer and his cowardly act but to put matters into perspective. The brutal coward is, in the final analysis, a foot soldier and executor of an idea or noxious ideology that denigrates, hates, and wants Muslims exterminated. While, in the realm of immediacy, the man and his accomplices must face the full force of law, but the larger and the more compelling challenge is to check the evil and noxious theme of Islamophobia in the West. Be it Trump’s the United States, or Marie le Pen’s France or the growing salience of right-wing parties in Europe, all seek to use Muslims as the “Other” to push their nasty and noxious political agendas. In this sense then, a ghastly event like the New Zealand carnage was perhaps waiting to happen. While there have been condemnations of the terror attack, but these are tepid and not enough. It is the context and the climate that Islamophobia generates that must be dealt with, firmly and strenuously. First and foremost, the attack must be called and dealt with as a pure act of terrorism. And, then the toxicity of the underlying ideologies that incubate it in the Western world must be taken on. All this becomes salient and poignant in a world where, despite the derailing of the momentum of globalisation, which entails movement of diverse peoples across the world, Islam and the West meet again, albeit in a different context, scale and scope. A fearful minority within the West is neither salubrious nor called for. Islam and Muslims within the West are a reality that cannot be wished away. They are there to stay. It is then incumbent upon powers that be in the West to make Muslims within feel safe and secure. Moreover, it is in the nature of an imperative for the West to introspect and actually hark back to the principles and philosophies that are its defining features, tolerance and countenancing diversity being salient ones. The starting point of this review would be confronted Islamophobia and the toxic forces that give rise to it. Last but not least, Muslims within the West and across the world must not tar Westerners with the same brush and hold them to be the equivalent of the Christchurch killer. This would amount to giving in and caving to the real agendas of those who are behind the killings. We, Muslims, across the world, must demonstrate grace, poise, the expansiveness of vision and belief, which correspond and mesh with the great and holy principles of Islam. Our reaction, as our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of the odious and horrendous attack must be measured and sober. We must not give ammunition to the detractors and ill-wishers of our faith and religion. Let peace prevail. Salaam! (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

The psychology of fear and hate: Christchurch attacks must be dealt with as pure act of terrorism

Bangladesh's cricket team left New Zealand on Saturday, less than 24 hours after narrowly avoiding being involved in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-mass-shooting-suspect-remanded-until-april-5-203622">worst mass shooting in the country</a>, which now had to accept that sporting events were likely to have been changed forever.

A lone gunman killed 49 people and wounded more than 20 during Friday prayers at two mosques in Christchurch in the country's worst mass shooting which Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern condemned as "a terrorist attack".

The Bangladesh team were on a bus that was approaching the Al Noor mosque, where 41 people died, on the eve of the third Test at nearby Hagley Oval when the shooting began.

The Test match, which had been scheduled to start on Saturday, was cancelled after the shooting and Bangladesh's tour abandoned.

Violent crime is extremely rare in New Zealand and the Bangladesh Cricket Board said the attacks had now changed their perception about team security on tours.

"We'll demand proper security wherever our team goes in future," BCB President Nazmul Hassan told reporters in Dhaka on Friday. "If a country provides proper security as per our demand, then we will go otherwise not.

"I can say that everything will change after this incident."

Pakistan's Minister for Human Rights Shireen Mazari also suggested the world governing body, the International Cricket Council, should possibly take a harder line against hosting matches in New Zealand.

"ICC shd take note &amp; perhaps suspend int cricket in NZ after this act of terrorism?" Mazari said on Twitter.

Pakistan has been unable to host matches at home since 2009, when gunmen attacked the bus carrying the Sri Lanka team to a match in Lahore. Six of the visiting team were wounded and eight locals killed.

New Zealand have not toured Pakistan since 2002 following a suicide bombing outside their hotel in Karachi and instead played their games in the United Arab Emirates.

They also abandoned a tour of Sri Lanka in 1987 following a bombing near their hotel in Colombo.

New Zealand Cricket chief executive David White said the country would now also need to accept they were no longer immune from acts of extreme violence and that would need to be factored in when they hosted sports events and teams.

"This is shocking. This will change the entire fabric of international sports hosting. I think everything changes now," he said.

"We'll certainly be having to look at our security in depth. I think the idea of New Zealand being a safe haven is gone now.

"We now have to be very, very vigilant - all the authorities and sporting organisations, absolutely."

Bangladesh's cricket team left New Zealand on Saturday, less than 24 hours after narrowly avoiding being involved in the worst mass shooting in the country, which now had to accept that sporting events were likely to have been changed forever.

Bangladesh's cricket team left New Zealand on Saturday, less than 24 hours after narrowly avoiding being involved in the worst mass shooting in the country, which now had to accept that sporting events were likely to have been changed forever. A lone gunman killed 49 people and wounded more than 20 during Friday prayers at two mosques in Christchurch in the country's worst mass shooting which Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern condemned as "a terrorist attack". The Bangladesh team were on a bus that was approaching the Al Noor mosque, where 41 people died, on the eve of the third Test at nearby Hagley Oval when the shooting began. The Test match, which had been scheduled to start on Saturday, was cancelled after the shooting and Bangladesh's tour abandoned. Violent crime is extremely rare in New Zealand and the Bangladesh Cricket Board said the attacks had now changed their perception about team security on tours. "We'll demand proper security wherever our team goes in future," BCB President Nazmul Hassan told reporters in Dhaka on Friday. "If a country provides proper security as per our demand, then we will go otherwise not. "I can say that everything will change after this incident." Pakistan's Minister for Human Rights Shireen Mazari also suggested the world governing body, the International Cricket Council, should possibly take a harder line against hosting matches in New Zealand. "ICC shd take note & perhaps suspend int cricket in NZ after this act of terrorism?" Mazari said on Twitter. Pakistan has been unable to host matches at home since 2009, when gunmen attacked the bus carrying the Sri Lanka team to a match in Lahore. Six of the visiting team were wounded and eight locals killed. New Zealand have not toured Pakistan since 2002 following a suicide bombing outside their hotel in Karachi and instead played their games in the United Arab Emirates. They also abandoned a tour of Sri Lanka in 1987 following a bombing near their hotel in Colombo. New Zealand Cricket chief executive David White said the country would now also need to accept they were no longer immune from acts of extreme violence and that would need to be factored in when they hosted sports events and teams. "This is shocking. This will change the entire fabric of international sports hosting. I think everything changes now," he said. "We'll certainly be having to look at our security in depth. I think the idea of New Zealand being a safe haven is gone now. "We now have to be very, very vigilant - all the authorities and sporting organisations, absolutely."

Bangladesh cricket team leave New Zealand after mosque shootings

Bangladesh opening batsman Tamim Iqbal said he believes it will not be easy for the national cricket team to overcome the shock of narrowly escaping Friday’s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-mass-shooting-suspect-remanded-until-april-5-203622">shooting in a New Zealand mosque</a>.&nbsp;

At least 49 people died in attacks on two mosques in the city of Christchurch during Friday prayers, in what appeared to be the worst act of terror against Muslims in a Western country.&nbsp;

"It will certainly take some time for us to get out of it (the state of shock) after the experience we had here," Tamim told reporters at Christchurch airport moments before the team left for Bangladesh on Saturday.&nbsp;

At least 17 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bangladesh-cricket-team-leave-new-zealand-after-mosque-shootings-203681">members of the Bangladesh cricket team</a>, including Tamim, drove up to the Masjid al Noor in a bus to join Friday prayers when the mosque came under attack by a gunman.&nbsp;

Team manager Khaled Mashud said the players and staff on the bus watched as blood-soaked victims staggered from the building.&nbsp;

They stayed in the bus for eight to 10 minutes before leaving it sensing danger, according to Mashud.&nbsp;

The Bangladesh cricket team was in Christchurch for their third and final Test of a three-match series, which was scheduled to begin Saturday.&nbsp;

The Test was promptly cancelled and the Bangladesh Cricket Board and New Zealand authorities arranged for the team to leave the country at the earliest possible time.&nbsp;

The Bangladesh team is expected to return home at 10.40pm local time (1640GMT) on Saturday.&nbsp;

"It is better that we are returning... because everyone's family is worried. I just hope after returning home we can overcome it (trauma) with the passing of time,” Tamim said before the team left Christchurch.&nbsp;

Dhaka complained that players were not provided with any security when they headed for the mosque.&nbsp;

“In future, whenever we send our cricket team abroad we will do that after examining and reviewing the security matters of the host countries,” Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said Saturday, according to the state-run news agency BSS.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board echoed Hasina's concerns, saying it was "unfortunate we did not see any visible security protocol".

"We are not sure what their security system is. But when two countries sign (a) memorandum of understanding at national level security is always mentioned,” BCB chief executive Nizamuddin Chowdhury told reporters in Dhaka.

“We will set up a minimum security standard for future. Once it is assured only then we will go, otherwise not,” he said.&nbsp;

Australia's cricket team cancelled a tour in Bangladesh in 2015, citing a lack of security, while the Australian Under-19 cricket team skipped ICC Under-19 World Cup in Bangladesh in 2016 on the same ground.

England's cricket team was provided security equal to that of a head of a state when they visited Bangladesh in 2016, months after one of the worst extremist attacks on foreigners in a Dhaka cafe.

Bangladesh opening batsman Tamim Iqbal said he believes it will not be easy for the national cricket team to overcome the shock of narrowly escaping Friday’s shooting in a New Zealand mosque.

Bangladesh opening batsman Tamim Iqbal said he believes it will not be easy for the national cricket team to overcome the shock of narrowly escaping Friday’s shooting in a New Zealand mosque. At least 49 people died in attacks on two mosques in the city of Christchurch during Friday prayers, in what appeared to be the worst act of terror against Muslims in a Western country. "It will certainly take some time for us to get out of it (the state of shock) after the experience we had here," Tamim told reporters at Christchurch airport moments before the team left for Bangladesh on Saturday. At least 17 members of the Bangladesh cricket team, including Tamim, drove up to the Masjid al Noor in a bus to join Friday prayers when the mosque came under attack by a gunman. Team manager Khaled Mashud said the players and staff on the bus watched as blood-soaked victims staggered from the building. They stayed in the bus for eight to 10 minutes before leaving it sensing danger, according to Mashud. The Bangladesh cricket team was in Christchurch for their third and final Test of a three-match series, which was scheduled to begin Saturday. The Test was promptly cancelled and the Bangladesh Cricket Board and New Zealand authorities arranged for the team to leave the country at the earliest possible time. The Bangladesh team is expected to return home at 10.40pm local time (1640GMT) on Saturday. "It is better that we are returning... because everyone's family is worried. I just hope after returning home we can overcome it (trauma) with the passing of time,” Tamim said before the team left Christchurch. Dhaka complained that players were not provided with any security when they headed for the mosque. “In future, whenever we send our cricket team abroad we will do that after examining and reviewing the security matters of the host countries,” Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said Saturday, according to the state-run news agency BSS. The Bangladesh Cricket Board echoed Hasina's concerns, saying it was "unfortunate we did not see any visible security protocol". "We are not sure what their security system is. But when two countries sign (a) memorandum of understanding at national level security is always mentioned,” BCB chief executive Nizamuddin Chowdhury told reporters in Dhaka. “We will set up a minimum security standard for future. Once it is assured only then we will go, otherwise not,” he said. Australia's cricket team cancelled a tour in Bangladesh in 2015, citing a lack of security, while the Australian Under-19 cricket team skipped ICC Under-19 World Cup in Bangladesh in 2016 on the same ground. England's cricket team was provided security equal to that of a head of a state when they visited Bangladesh in 2016, months after one of the worst extremist attacks on foreigners in a Dhaka cafe.

It will take time to overcome Christchurch horror, says Bangladesh’s Tamim Iqbal

This is not <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-mosque-shootings-kill-49-in-what-pm-calls-terrorist-attack-203560">New Zealand</a>, the country's Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-enduring-one-of-its-darkest-days-pm-jacinda-ardern-after-mosque-shooting-203429">Jacinda Ardern</a> reaffirmed on Saturday during a visit to a refugee centre here to show her solidarity with the Muslim community in the wake of the ghastly terror attacks at two mosques which claimed the lives of 49 people. 
 
'You were quick to mention this is not New Zealand that you know. I want to reaffirm that today. This is not New Zealand,'&nbsp;she said. 'A complex and comprehensive investigation is underway by police,'&nbsp;The New Zealand Herald quoted Ardern as saying. 
 
New Zealand's Attorney General, David Parker, also outlined that semi-automatic weapons will be banned in the Oceania country following the terror attack which has brought focus to the country's gun laws. 
 
'How can it be right for this atrocity to be filmed by the murderer using a go-pro and live-streamed across the world by social media companies?'&nbsp;Parker said while echoing the Prime Minister`s assurance that gun laws would change. 
 
Meanwhile, 39 people are still being treated for wounds, out of which 11 people still remain critically injured at Christchurch Hospital and one child has been transferred to Auckland's Starship Hospital. 
 
'Yesterday’s terrorist attack took away the lives of 49 innocent people. It’s hard to fathom the enormity of this act of terrorism...What happened yesterday is abhorrent," Canterbury DHB chief executive David Meates said. 
 
Ardern outlined that five guns were used by the perpetrator - who held a gun license - out of which two were semi-automatic weapons and two were shotguns. 
 
Children and adults alike were gunned down indiscriminately by what authorities believe to be one terrorist - Brenton Tarrant - who traveled between two packed mosques on Friday to carry out the shootings under 36 minutes. 
 
Sympathies and condemnation are pouring in globally against the terror attack, which has shaken communities across the world. 
 
The primary suspect, Tarrant, appeared before the court on Saturday on murder charges connected with Friday`s terror attacks in Christchurch. He was remanded in custody without plea until April 5.

This is not New Zealand, the country's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern reaffirmed on Saturday during a visit to a refugee centre here to show her solidarity with the Muslim community in the wake of the ghastly terror attacks at two mosques which claimed the lives of 49 people.

This is not New Zealand, the country's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern reaffirmed on Saturday during a visit to a refugee centre here to show her solidarity with the Muslim community in the wake of the ghastly terror attacks at two mosques which claimed the lives of 49 people. 'You were quick to mention this is not New Zealand that you know. I want to reaffirm that today. This is not New Zealand,' she said. 'A complex and comprehensive investigation is underway by police,' The New Zealand Herald quoted Ardern as saying. New Zealand's Attorney General, David Parker, also outlined that semi-automatic weapons will be banned in the Oceania country following the terror attack which has brought focus to the country's gun laws. 'How can it be right for this atrocity to be filmed by the murderer using a go-pro and live-streamed across the world by social media companies?' Parker said while echoing the Prime Minister`s assurance that gun laws would change. Meanwhile, 39 people are still being treated for wounds, out of which 11 people still remain critically injured at Christchurch Hospital and one child has been transferred to Auckland's Starship Hospital. 'Yesterday’s terrorist attack took away the lives of 49 innocent people. It’s hard to fathom the enormity of this act of terrorism...What happened yesterday is abhorrent," Canterbury DHB chief executive David Meates said. Ardern outlined that five guns were used by the perpetrator - who held a gun license - out of which two were semi-automatic weapons and two were shotguns. Children and adults alike were gunned down indiscriminately by what authorities believe to be one terrorist - Brenton Tarrant - who traveled between two packed mosques on Friday to carry out the shootings under 36 minutes. Sympathies and condemnation are pouring in globally against the terror attack, which has shaken communities across the world. The primary suspect, Tarrant, appeared before the court on Saturday on murder charges connected with Friday`s terror attacks in Christchurch. He was remanded in custody without plea until April 5.

'This is not New Zealand': Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern

From 1943 to 2019, a look at New Zealand's mass shooting incidents

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-mass-shooting-suspect-remanded-until-april-5-203622">Christchurch mass shootings</a> will have far-reaching implications for hosting sporting events in New Zealand and elsewhere, according to New Zealand Cricket CEO David White, who said the impression of the country being a "safe haven is gone".&nbsp;

Attacks on two Christchurch mosques left at least 49 dead Friday, with one gunman - identified as an Australian - live streaming the attack.&nbsp;

The Bangladesh cricket team escaped unhurt despite being in close vicinity of a shooting attack on a mosque but its tour of New Zealand was called off.

"This is shocking. This will change the entire fabric of international sports hosting. I think everything changes now," White was quoted as saying by stuff.Co.Nz.

"We'll certainly be having to look at our security in depth. I think the idea of New Zealand being a safe haven is gone now.

"We now have to be very, very vigilant - all the authorities and sporting organisations, absolutely."

The Bangladesh team's tour was called off after the players had a narrow escape from the attack on a mosque in Christchurch, described as an "unprecedented act of violence" by the country's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern.

White said, "They're shaken up all right. They're shocked like everyone else. New Zealand Cricket's thoughts were with Christchurch and people affected by the shootings. We are shocked and appalled, as I'm sure all New Zealanders are."

The International Cricket Council had said it "fully supports" the cancellation of the third Test.&nbsp;

"Our thoughts and sincere condolences go out to the families and friends of those affected by this horrendous incident in Christchurch. Both teams, staff and match officials are safe and the ICC fully supports the decision to cancel the Test match," ICC Chief Executive David Richardson had said.&nbsp;

The Christchurch mass shootings will have far-reaching implications for hosting sporting events in New Zealand and elsewhere, according to New Zealand Cricket CEO David White, who said the impression of the country being a "safe haven is gone".

The Christchurch mass shootings will have far-reaching implications for hosting sporting events in New Zealand and elsewhere, according to New Zealand Cricket CEO David White, who said the impression of the country being a "safe haven is gone". Attacks on two Christchurch mosques left at least 49 dead Friday, with one gunman - identified as an Australian - live streaming the attack. The Bangladesh cricket team escaped unhurt despite being in close vicinity of a shooting attack on a mosque but its tour of New Zealand was called off. "This is shocking. This will change the entire fabric of international sports hosting. I think everything changes now," White was quoted as saying by stuff.Co.Nz. "We'll certainly be having to look at our security in depth. I think the idea of New Zealand being a safe haven is gone now. "We now have to be very, very vigilant - all the authorities and sporting organisations, absolutely." The Bangladesh team's tour was called off after the players had a narrow escape from the attack on a mosque in Christchurch, described as an "unprecedented act of violence" by the country's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern. White said, "They're shaken up all right. They're shocked like everyone else. New Zealand Cricket's thoughts were with Christchurch and people affected by the shootings. We are shocked and appalled, as I'm sure all New Zealanders are." The International Cricket Council had said it "fully supports" the cancellation of the third Test. "Our thoughts and sincere condolences go out to the families and friends of those affected by this horrendous incident in Christchurch. Both teams, staff and match officials are safe and the ICC fully supports the decision to cancel the Test match," ICC Chief Executive David Richardson had said.

Christchurch attack will change fabric of international sports hosting: New Zealand Cricket CEO

Mosque shooting: Indian community in New Zealand condemns attack

The International Cricket Council (ICC) chief David Richardson offered condolences to the victims and their families of Christchurch mosque shooting.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/49-killed-in-christchurch-mosque-attack-one-person-charged-new-zealand-police-203495">At least 49 people died</a> in attacks on two mosques during Friday prayers in what appeared to be the worst assault on Muslims in a Western country.&nbsp;

"Our thoughts and sincere condolences go out to families and friends of those affected by this horrendous incident in Christchurch," said Richardson.&nbsp;

"Both teams, staff and match officials are safe and ICC fully supports the decision to cancel the Test match," he added.&nbsp;

The third cricket Test between New Zealand and Bangladesh has been cancelled in the wake of a shooting.&nbsp;

The visiting team narrowly avoided the shooting after arriving at the mosque for prayers.&nbsp;

New Zealand Cricket said they had decided to cancel the Test, which was scheduled to start at Hagley Oval on Saturday, after discussions with the Bangladesh Cricket Board.&nbsp;

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Arden said the attack was an "unprecedented act of violence" and "one of New Zealand's darkest days".&nbsp;

"This is significant and I can tell you now this is and will be one of New Zealand's darkest days. I would describe it as an unprecedented act of violence, an act that has absolutely no place in New Zealand. This is not who we are," she said.&nbsp;

The International Cricket Council (ICC) chief David Richardson offered condolences to the victims and their families of Christchurch mosque shooting. At least 49 people died in attacks on two mosques during Friday prayers in what appeared to be the worst assault on Muslims in a Western country.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) chief David Richardson offered condolences to the victims and their families of Christchurch mosque shooting. At least 49 people died in attacks on two mosques during Friday prayers in what appeared to be the worst assault on Muslims in a Western country. "Our thoughts and sincere condolences go out to families and friends of those affected by this horrendous incident in Christchurch," said Richardson. "Both teams, staff and match officials are safe and ICC fully supports the decision to cancel the Test match," he added. The third cricket Test between New Zealand and Bangladesh has been cancelled in the wake of a shooting. The visiting team narrowly avoided the shooting after arriving at the mosque for prayers. New Zealand Cricket said they had decided to cancel the Test, which was scheduled to start at Hagley Oval on Saturday, after discussions with the Bangladesh Cricket Board. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Arden said the attack was an "unprecedented act of violence" and "one of New Zealand's darkest days". "This is significant and I can tell you now this is and will be one of New Zealand's darkest days. I would describe it as an unprecedented act of violence, an act that has absolutely no place in New Zealand. This is not who we are," she said.

ICC supports decision to cancel Test match between New Zealand and Bangladesh after Christchurch mosque attack

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