Religious leaders condemn Nice killings

Religious leaders around the world have expressed their shock and sadness at the killings in Nice on Friday.

A spokesman for Pope Francis said: "Throughout the night we have followed with great concern the terrible news from Nice. On behalf of Pope Francis, we join in solidarity with the suffering of the victims and of the entire French people this day that should have been a great holiday. We condemn in the strongest way every demonstration of senseless violence, of hatred, terrorism and any attack against peace."

The President of COMECE, Cardinal Reinhard Marx, said: "Last night, France has again been hit by a terrorist attack. More than 80 people were killed. We are shocked and saddened by this act of war. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their relatives and friends."

Last night a terrible massacre was committed in the South of France. Our condolences go out to all those who were murdered in the Nice attack, the survivors and their families.

In a joint message, Cardinal Vincent Nichols, President, Catholic Bishops' Conference of England & Wales, together with Muslim leaders said:

"We condemn this terrorism which thrives on hate and division. Together, as religious leaders we pray that peace and not violence, compassion and not hate will triumph as the people of Nice try to rebuild their community.

I remain convinced that European civilization and the culture of freedom, to which France has contributed so much, will not be defeated by violence."

Signed

Cardinal Vincent Nichols, President, Catholic Bishops' Conference of England & Wales
Sheikh Mohammed Al-Hilli, Director, Noor Trust
Imam Qari Muhammad Asim, Head Imam, Mecca Mosque
Sheikh Babikir
Sheikh Ibrahim Mogra, Co-Chair, Christian-Muslim Forum
Imam Sayed Ali Abbas Razawi, Director-General, Scottish Ahlul Bayt Society
Moulana Muhammad Shahid Raza, Chair, MINAB
Moulana Sayed Ali Raza Rizvi, Senior Imam & President Emeritus, Shia Ulama Council Europe