Emiratis condemn Paris attacks

Abu Dhabi: Emiratis across the UAE condemned the Paris attacks that have left at least 129 people dead and scores of other critically injured, and they also expressed their condolences to the French people.

“Our heartfelt sympathies go out to the families of the victims for their loss. Our thoughts are with them in this difficult time,” Mohammad Al Zaabi, a 26-year-old entrepreneur told Gulf News.

“As Emiratis, we denounce these heinous terrorist attacks as they have not been committed just against France but against the whole of humanity,” he added.

To show solidarity with France, a number of buildings across the capital will today (November 15) be lit up with the three colours of the French flag.

Ali Al Taee, 29, chief executive officer, said he had been following the football match between Germany and France when he came across news of the attacks.

“I am very, very saddened to hear of these tragic events, and am praying for the affected families,” he said.

Fahad Al Menhali, a 37-year-old accountant, said the UAE people and the government supported French efforts to combat terrorist activity.

“I visited Paris three years ago, and it is a beautiful, peaceful city. Such acts of terror have no religion and no morality and we strictly condemn them,” he added.

Others hoped that the attacks would not damage relations between France and the UAE. At present, 11 individuals accused of being members of Daesh, which has claimed responsibility for the attacks, are being tried in the UAE capital.

“We offer our support to the victims in these trying times, and hope the French government will take action against the perpetrators. We in the UAE are also suffering from the threat of terrorism and wholeheartedly support efforts to stem it,” said Khalid Abdul Wahid, 39, a public sector employee from Abu Dhabi.

The attacks occurred simultaneously in six different locations across the French capital, including cafes, a football stadium and a concert venue.