The All-Party Parliamentary Group for International Freedom of Religion or Belief has condemned Monday’s attack on the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina, Saudi Arabia, which killed four security guards.
The APPG said it “stands in solidarity with the victims targeted during this sacred time and expresses its deepest condolences to the families and friends of those killed.”
“The Group notes that this attack on a mosque during Maghrib prayers is both atrocious and an attempt to intimidate and incite fear in those who had gathered to practise their religion. The Group condemns all incidents in which individuals’ right to practise their religion or belief, in line with international law, is compromised.
“In light of the attack in Medina and other recent attacks in Orlando, Istanbul, Baghdad, Dhaka and elsewhere, the Group calls on national governments, international organisations and faith communities from all denominations to advance all the voices of those who counter such attacks in this time of global uncertainty.”
The APPG has also urged state and non-state actors in the nations affected to recognise that it is now critical that steps are taken to promote human rights, including freedom of religion or belief, for the sake of future peace.