New Zealand abandon Pakistan tour: 8 instances when sporting events got affected on security grounds

A businessman in New Zealand has been sentenced to nearly two years in prison for sharing footage of the Christchurch mosque attacks, which saw a lone gunman livestream the massacre of 51 Muslims during Friday prayers on March 15.

New Zealander jailed for sharing Christchurch mass shooting video

Thousands of Pakistanis clad in white gathered in the central city of Jhang Friday to make a human image of Christchurch's Al Noor mosque, where 50 people were killed by a white supremacist four weeks ago.

Drone images showed worshippers standing in formation, their snow-white traditional shalwar kameez and prayer caps in stark contrast to the emerald green of a public field, as a second group formed the words "Islam is peace" nearby.

Huge New Zealand and Pakistani flags were also displayed along with a giant banner which read: "Solidarity with the martyrs of Christchurch from Pakistan".&nbsp;

The tribute was organised by the Muslim Institute, a non-government organisation aimed at promoting peace and stability in the Muslim world, which also released the drone footage.

Brenton Tarrant, a 28-year-old Australian and self-avowed white supremacist, has been charged with 50 counts of murder and 39 of attempted murder after opening fire at the Linwood and Al Noor mosques on March 15.

Nine of the victims were of Pakistani origin. One, Naeem Rashid, was posthumously given an award for bravery by Pakistan after he apparently tried to tackle the gunman before being shot.&nbsp;

Tribute organisers praised the New Zealand government after what had been a "very tough time" for Muslims in the country -- especially Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern.&nbsp;

Her response "not only soothed the wounds of Muslims but also assured them that Muslims in their country are safe," Sahibzada Sultan Ahmad Ali, a religious scholar and one of the organisers, told AFP.

"We worked really hard to make this model," one participant, Noor Hassan, told AFP of the tribute.&nbsp;

"It was so pleasant that we were ready to stand like this for the whole day," he added.&nbsp;

Thousands of Pakistanis clad in white gathered in the central city of Jhang Friday to make a human image of Christchurch's Al Noor mosque, where 50 people were killed by a white supremacist four weeks ago.

Thousands of Pakistanis clad in white gathered in the central city of Jhang Friday to make a human image of Christchurch's Al Noor mosque, where 50 people were killed by a white supremacist four weeks ago. Drone images showed worshippers standing in formation, their snow-white traditional shalwar kameez and prayer caps in stark contrast to the emerald green of a public field, as a second group formed the words "Islam is peace" nearby. Huge New Zealand and Pakistani flags were also displayed along with a giant banner which read: "Solidarity with the martyrs of Christchurch from Pakistan". The tribute was organised by the Muslim Institute, a non-government organisation aimed at promoting peace and stability in the Muslim world, which also released the drone footage. Brenton Tarrant, a 28-year-old Australian and self-avowed white supremacist, has been charged with 50 counts of murder and 39 of attempted murder after opening fire at the Linwood and Al Noor mosques on March 15. Nine of the victims were of Pakistani origin. One, Naeem Rashid, was posthumously given an award for bravery by Pakistan after he apparently tried to tackle the gunman before being shot. Tribute organisers praised the New Zealand government after what had been a "very tough time" for Muslims in the country -- especially Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern. Her response "not only soothed the wounds of Muslims but also assured them that Muslims in their country are safe," Sahibzada Sultan Ahmad Ali, a religious scholar and one of the organisers, told AFP. "We worked really hard to make this model," one participant, Noor Hassan, told AFP of the tribute. "It was so pleasant that we were ready to stand like this for the whole day," he added.

Thousands of Pakistanis form human chain in image of Christchurch mosque

New Zealand's largest news website, Stuff, cracked down on reader comments Tuesday after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/muslims-return-to-christchurch-mosque-as-new-zealand-works-to-move-on-204991">Christchurch mosque massacre</a> sparked debate about how the media handles online hate.

The stuff&nbsp;site said it aimed to host a welcoming online environment but conceded "too often, our comments section has allowed casual prejudice to seep in from the fringes".

"Of the comments that are posted, most are fair expression -– but it only takes a little toxin to poison an entire stream," Stuff editor-in-chief Patrick Crewdson wrote on the website.

Christchurch shooting accused Brenton Tarrant is believed to have posted a rambling "manifesto" online before a gun rampage at two mosques that claimed 50 lives in the South Island city on March 15.

Tarrant, an Australian white supremacist, apparently made references in the document designed to maximise mainstream media coverage of his actions.

He also live-streamed the attack and the footage was aired by some media outlets -- although New Zealand authorities have since banned both the video and the document.

The atrocity, the worst mass shooting in New Zealand's history, has prompted soul-searching among journalists and media outlets about how to stop extremists using them as a vehicle to spread extreme views.

"The accused's abhorrent ideology was rehearsed in the darkest corners of the web, not on mainstream news sites, but it's still timely for us to check the health of Stuff's comments section," Crewdson wrote.

He said the site's moderators would clamp down on personal attacks and prejudice, while the ability to upvote or downvote comments would be removed.

Accused's prison isolation&nbsp; 
In addition, comments will be permanently disabled on a range of contentious topics, including the Christchurch shootings, Israel/Palestine, vaccinations and transgender issues.

"We'll be accused of censorship and curtailing free speech, others will say we should shutter the comments section entirely," Crewdson said.

Stuff, formerly Fairfax New Zealand, is one of New Zealand’s largest media companies, with newspaper mastheads including the Christchurch Press and Wellington's Dominion Post.

Its flagship news website stuff.co.nz is New Zealand's most popular with around 1.8 million unique viewers a month, just ahead of the other major player, nzherald.co.nz.

Meanwhile, authorities have confirmed Tarrant's next court appearance will be in Christchurch, even though he is believed to have been moved to a prison elsewhere in the country.

The Justice Department confirmed his next scheduled appearance is in Christchurch High Court on Friday, April 5, although it is unclear if he will be physically present in the dock or appear via video.

Tarrant has reportedly been transferred to New Zealand's only maximum-security facility at the recently upgraded Auckland Prison at Paremoremo.

The Corrections Department refused to confirm Tarrant's location but did provide some details about the conditions he faces.

"The individual is segregated from other prisoners and able to be observed 24 hours a day, either directly by staff and/or via CCTV camera," it said in a statement.

"He is being managed in accordance with the provisions set out in the Corrections Act 2004 and our international obligations for the treatment of prisoners. At this time he has no access to television, radio or newspapers and no approved visitors."

New Zealand media have reported that if convicted, the accused will likely be isolated to prevent him being targeted by the largely Polynesian prison population over his white supremacist views.

New Zealand's largest news website, Stuff, cracked down on reader comments Tuesday after the Christchurch mosque massacre sparked debate about how the media handles online hate.

New Zealand's largest news website, Stuff, cracked down on reader comments Tuesday after the Christchurch mosque massacre sparked debate about how the media handles online hate. The stuff site said it aimed to host a welcoming online environment but conceded "too often, our comments section has allowed casual prejudice to seep in from the fringes". "Of the comments that are posted, most are fair expression -– but it only takes a little toxin to poison an entire stream," Stuff editor-in-chief Patrick Crewdson wrote on the website. Christchurch shooting accused Brenton Tarrant is believed to have posted a rambling "manifesto" online before a gun rampage at two mosques that claimed 50 lives in the South Island city on March 15. Tarrant, an Australian white supremacist, apparently made references in the document designed to maximise mainstream media coverage of his actions. He also live-streamed the attack and the footage was aired by some media outlets -- although New Zealand authorities have since banned both the video and the document. The atrocity, the worst mass shooting in New Zealand's history, has prompted soul-searching among journalists and media outlets about how to stop extremists using them as a vehicle to spread extreme views. "The accused's abhorrent ideology was rehearsed in the darkest corners of the web, not on mainstream news sites, but it's still timely for us to check the health of Stuff's comments section," Crewdson wrote. He said the site's moderators would clamp down on personal attacks and prejudice, while the ability to upvote or downvote comments would be removed. Accused's prison isolation In addition, comments will be permanently disabled on a range of contentious topics, including the Christchurch shootings, Israel/Palestine, vaccinations and transgender issues. "We'll be accused of censorship and curtailing free speech, others will say we should shutter the comments section entirely," Crewdson said. Stuff, formerly Fairfax New Zealand, is one of New Zealand’s largest media companies, with newspaper mastheads including the Christchurch Press and Wellington's Dominion Post. Its flagship news website stuff.co.nz is New Zealand's most popular with around 1.8 million unique viewers a month, just ahead of the other major player, nzherald.co.nz. Meanwhile, authorities have confirmed Tarrant's next court appearance will be in Christchurch, even though he is believed to have been moved to a prison elsewhere in the country. The Justice Department confirmed his next scheduled appearance is in Christchurch High Court on Friday, April 5, although it is unclear if he will be physically present in the dock or appear via video. Tarrant has reportedly been transferred to New Zealand's only maximum-security facility at the recently upgraded Auckland Prison at Paremoremo. The Corrections Department refused to confirm Tarrant's location but did provide some details about the conditions he faces. "The individual is segregated from other prisoners and able to be observed 24 hours a day, either directly by staff and/or via CCTV camera," it said in a statement. "He is being managed in accordance with the provisions set out in the Corrections Act 2004 and our international obligations for the treatment of prisoners. At this time he has no access to television, radio or newspapers and no approved visitors." New Zealand media have reported that if convicted, the accused will likely be isolated to prevent him being targeted by the largely Polynesian prison population over his white supremacist views.

Popular New Zealand website seeks comments detox after Christchurch attack

New Zealand will hold a national remembrance service on March 29 for the victims of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-74-million-donated-to-help-families-in-new-zealand-shooting-205164">Christchurch mosque massacre</a> and their families, the prime minister's office announced on Sunday.

The interfaith service will take place in Christchurch two weeks after an Australian white supremacist shot and killed 50 Muslims who had arrived for Friday prayers at two mosques in the city on March 15.

"The national remembrance service provides an opportunity for Cantabrians (Christchurch-area residents), New Zealanders and people all around the world to come together as one to honour the victims of the terrorist attack," Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said in a statement.

"In the week since the unprecedented terror attack there has been an outpouring of grief and love in our country.&nbsp;

"The service will be a chance to once again show that New Zealanders are compassionate, inclusive and diverse, and that we will protect those values."

The slaughter has rocked the normally laid-back country and prompted horror worldwide, heightened by the gunman's cold-blooded live streaming of the massacre.&nbsp;

Since then, New Zealanders have responded with an outpouring of support for the country's small Muslim community.&nbsp;

The attack also left dozens of people injured, some critically.

Brenton Tarrant, a 28-year-old Australian, was arrested within minutes of the massacre and has been charged with murder.

New Zealand will hold a national remembrance service on March 29 for the victims of the Christchurch mosque massacre and their families, the prime minister's office announced on Sunday.

New Zealand will hold a national remembrance service on March 29 for the victims of the Christchurch mosque massacre and their families, the prime minister's office announced on Sunday. The interfaith service will take place in Christchurch two weeks after an Australian white supremacist shot and killed 50 Muslims who had arrived for Friday prayers at two mosques in the city on March 15. "The national remembrance service provides an opportunity for Cantabrians (Christchurch-area residents), New Zealanders and people all around the world to come together as one to honour the victims of the terrorist attack," Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said in a statement. "In the week since the unprecedented terror attack there has been an outpouring of grief and love in our country. "The service will be a chance to once again show that New Zealanders are compassionate, inclusive and diverse, and that we will protect those values." The slaughter has rocked the normally laid-back country and prompted horror worldwide, heightened by the gunman's cold-blooded live streaming of the massacre. Since then, New Zealanders have responded with an outpouring of support for the country's small Muslim community. The attack also left dozens of people injured, some critically. Brenton Tarrant, a 28-year-old Australian, was arrested within minutes of the massacre and has been charged with murder.

New Zealand to hold national remembrance for Christchurch next Friday

On the grass outside a church in New Zealand lie 50 pairs of white shoes, each representing one of the lives lost in a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/49-killed-in-christchurch-mosque-attack-one-person-charged-new-zealand-police-203495">mass shooting at two mosques</a> in the community just a few days ago.

The city of Christchurch has come together in mourning following the attack, which saw a lone gunman open fire on worshippers during Friday (March 15) prayers.

"One of the sort of things we were aware of was the tradition of taking off your shoes as you went into worship. And suddenly the thought that there were 49 and 50 pairs of shoes that would never be filled again, was just an image that just kept coming back," said Megan Merles-Mooar, the vicar of All Souls Church.

"It's been a beautiful opportunity for the community to come somewhere to grieve and to mourn," said one of the church's members, adding that people of all faith had come to view the shoes.

As preparations for the first burials were underway on Tuesday (March 19), New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern praised the bravery and courage by mosque worshippers as the gunman massacred their friends and family, saying the nation stood with its grieving Muslim community in this "darkest of days".

On the grass outside a church in New Zealand lie 50 pairs of white shoes, each representing one of the lives lost in a mass shooting at two mosques in the community just a few days ago.

On the grass outside a church in New Zealand lie 50 pairs of white shoes, each representing one of the lives lost in a mass shooting at two mosques in the community just a few days ago. The city of Christchurch has come together in mourning following the attack, which saw a lone gunman open fire on worshippers during Friday (March 15) prayers. "One of the sort of things we were aware of was the tradition of taking off your shoes as you went into worship. And suddenly the thought that there were 49 and 50 pairs of shoes that would never be filled again, was just an image that just kept coming back," said Megan Merles-Mooar, the vicar of All Souls Church. "It's been a beautiful opportunity for the community to come somewhere to grieve and to mourn," said one of the church's members, adding that people of all faith had come to view the shoes. As preparations for the first burials were underway on Tuesday (March 19), New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern praised the bravery and courage by mosque worshippers as the gunman massacred their friends and family, saying the nation stood with its grieving Muslim community in this "darkest of days".

White shoes line church in memory of Christchurch shooting victims

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

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

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

The gunman who opened fire in a<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-enduring-one-of-its-darkest-days-pm-jacinda-ardern-after-mosque-shooting-203429"> New Zealand mosque</a> was a right-wing extremist with Australian citizenship, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said.

He declined to provide further details, saying the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/christchurch-mosque-attack-bangladesh-cricket-team-was-about-to-go-inside-safe-but-mentally-shocked-203418"> investigation was being led</a> by New Zealand authorities.

An attack on two crowded mosques during Friday prayers left multiple people dead, police said, on what Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern described as "one of New Zealand's darkest days".

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5/6 Ambulance, Fire and Emergency NZ, and wider <a href="https://t.co/OwDOISklCS">https://t.co/OwDOISklCS</a> this stage we will not be discussing the offenders’ possible motivations or the causes of this incident. We have asked all mosques nationally to shut their doors, and advise that people refrain from visiting
— New Zealand Police (@nzpolice) <a href="https://twitter.com/nzpolice/status/1106424677147119616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Police said four people - three men and a woman - had been taken into custody, and that they had found and neutralised a number of IEDs (improved explosive devices).

PM Ardern said she was unable to confirm the number of fatalities, with events still unfolding.

"It is clear that this is one of New Zealand's darkest days," she told reporters. "Clearly, what has happened here is an extraordinary and unprecedented act of violence."

The Masjid al Noor in central Christchurch was filled with worshippers when the attack happened, as was the second mosque in suburban Linwood. Police said they had put the entire city on lockdown including schools, and told residents to stay off the streets.

The Bangladesh cricket team - which had been in Christchurch for a Test match against New Zealand that was later cancelled.

A spokesman said the attack happened as some of the players had got off a team bus and were about to enter the mosque.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YmjhHrNin3E" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

The gunman who opened fire in a New Zealand mosque was a right-wing extremist with Australian citizenship, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said. He declined to provide further details, saying the investigation was being led by New Zealand authorities.

The gunman who opened fire in a New Zealand mosque was a right-wing extremist with Australian citizenship, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said. He declined to provide further details, saying the investigation was being led by New Zealand authorities. An attack on two crowded mosques during Friday prayers left multiple people dead, police said, on what Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern described as "one of New Zealand's darkest days". 5/6 Ambulance, Fire and Emergency NZ, and wider https://t.co/OwDOISklCS this stage we will not be discussing the offenders’ possible motivations or the causes of this incident. We have asked all mosques nationally to shut their doors, and advise that people refrain from visiting — New Zealand Police (@nzpolice) March 15, 2019 × Police said four people - three men and a woman - had been taken into custody, and that they had found and neutralised a number of IEDs (improved explosive devices). PM Ardern said she was unable to confirm the number of fatalities, with events still unfolding. "It is clear that this is one of New Zealand's darkest days," she told reporters. "Clearly, what has happened here is an extraordinary and unprecedented act of violence." The Masjid al Noor in central Christchurch was filled with worshippers when the attack happened, as was the second mosque in suburban Linwood. Police said they had put the entire city on lockdown including schools, and told residents to stay off the streets. The Bangladesh cricket team - which had been in Christchurch for a Test match against New Zealand that was later cancelled. A spokesman said the attack happened as some of the players had got off a team bus and were about to enter the mosque.

Christchurch mosque attacker a right-wing extremist with Australian citizenship: PM Scott Morrison

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

After New Zealand PM&nbsp;Jacinda Ardern described the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/third-new-zealand-bangladesh-test-cancelled-after-shooting-at-christchurch-mosque-203433">Christchurch mosque assault</a> as a "well-planned terror attack", police commissioner Mike Bush said the death toll had risen to 49 and 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".

"New Zealand police not actively looking for more suspects," the police commissioner said. The police had secured IEDs(improvised explosive devices) strapped to vehicles.

PM&nbsp;Jacinda Ardern said it was an "extraordinary and unprecedented act of violence" and that those "directly affected by this shooting may be migrants to New Zealand, they may even be refugees".

"It is clear that this can now only be described as a terrorist attack," said Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, saying it marked "one of New Zealand's darkest days".&nbsp;

It was not immediately clear how many attackers were involved, but Ardern said three men had been taken into custody.&nbsp;

Two IEDs were also found and neutralised by the military, police said. 
&nbsp;

After New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern described the Christchurch mosque assault as a "well-planned terror attack", police commissioner Mike Bush said the death toll had risen to 49 and one man was charged on Friday.

After New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern described the Christchurch mosque assault as a "well-planned terror attack", police commissioner Mike Bush said the death toll had risen to 49 and 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". "New Zealand police not actively looking for more suspects," the police commissioner said. The police had secured IEDs(improvised explosive devices) strapped to vehicles. PM Jacinda Ardern said it was an "extraordinary and unprecedented act of violence" and that those "directly affected by this shooting may be migrants to New Zealand, they may even be refugees". "It is clear that this can now only be described as a terrorist attack," said Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, saying it marked "one of New Zealand's darkest days". It was not immediately clear how many attackers were involved, but Ardern said three men had been taken into custody. Two IEDs were also found and neutralised by the military, police said.

49 killed in Christchurch mosque attack, one person charged: New Zealand police

Just hours after an attack<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/christchurch-mosque-attack-bangladesh-cricket-team-was-about-to-go-inside-safe-but-mentally-shocked-203418"> took place on two mosques in Christchurch</a>, New Zealand Jacinda Ardern said at least forty&nbsp;people were killed and twenty others were seriously injured in the shooting.

"It is clear that this can now only be described as a terrorist attack," she said. "From what we know, it does appear to have been well planned."&nbsp;

"Two explosive devices attached to suspect vehicles have now been found and they have been disarmed," she added.

"New Zealand was attacked because we represent diversity," the PM said.

"Christchurch attackers were not on terror watchlists," the New Zealand PM informed.

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1/4 Due to the ongoing serious firearms incident in Central Christchurch Police would like to remind all parents and caregivers that schools across the city remain in lock down.There is no timeframe at this stage for when the lock down will be lifted. The children are being...
— New Zealand Police (@nzpolice) <a href="https://twitter.com/nzpolice/status/1106404533658247168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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2/4 taken care of by schools. On advice from Police, schools will communicate directly with parents when the lock down is lifted.The safety of the community is our priority.
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Shortly before <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/christchurch-mosque-attacker-a-right-wing-extremist-with-australian-citizenship-pm-scott-morrison-203462">PM Ardern's press conference</a>, Australian PM Scott Morrison revealed that the gunman who opened fire on worshippers in the mosque was an "extremist, right-wing, violent terrorist" who was an Australian-born citizen.

"We stand here and condemn, absolutely the attack that occurred today by an extremist, right-wing, violent terrorist," Morrison told a press conference. He said Australian security authorities were investigating any links between the country and the attack

"It is such a sad and devastating reminder of the evil that can be ever present about us," Morrison added.

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Just hours after an attack took place on two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand Jacinda Ardern said at least forty people were killed and twenty others were seriously injured in the shooting.

Just hours after an attack took place on two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand Jacinda Ardern said at least forty people were killed and twenty others were seriously injured in the shooting. "It is clear that this can now only be described as a terrorist attack," she said. "From what we know, it does appear to have been well planned." "Two explosive devices attached to suspect vehicles have now been found and they have been disarmed," she added. "New Zealand was attacked because we represent diversity," the PM said. "Christchurch attackers were not on terror watchlists," the New Zealand PM informed. 1/4 Due to the ongoing serious firearms incident in Central Christchurch Police would like to remind all parents and caregivers that schools across the city remain in lock down.There is no timeframe at this stage for when the lock down will be lifted. The children are being... — New Zealand Police (@nzpolice) March 15, 2019 × 2/4 taken care of by schools. On advice from Police, schools will communicate directly with parents when the lock down is lifted.The safety of the community is our priority. — New Zealand Police (@nzpolice) March 15, 2019 × Shortly before PM Ardern's press conference, Australian PM Scott Morrison revealed that the gunman who opened fire on worshippers in the mosque was an "extremist, right-wing, violent terrorist" who was an Australian-born citizen. "We stand here and condemn, absolutely the attack that occurred today by an extremist, right-wing, violent terrorist," Morrison told a press conference. He said Australian security authorities were investigating any links between the country and the attack "It is such a sad and devastating reminder of the evil that can be ever present about us," Morrison added.

New Zealand mosque attack: 40 killed in terror attack, says PM Jacinda Ardern

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