UN condemns attack on largest mosque in San Diego
Call for tolerance, coexistence after deadly attack on California mosque
NEW YORK: A senior UN official has expressed deep shock at a horrific attack targeting the largest mosque in San Diego, California, which resulted in the loss of three lives, including a security guard.
The High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilisations and UN Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia, Miguel Ángel Moratinos, emphasised in a press statement today that this heinous crime represents a painful tragedy, particularly as it occurred at the beginning of Dhul-Hijjah, one of Islam's holiest periods leading to Eid al-Adha, which embodies deep faith, reflection, and unity among Muslims.
• The victims: Three people were killed in a shooting at San Diego’s largest mosque. Police said one was a security guard who “saved lives,” while two others tried to draw the attackers away.
• The suspects: Two teenage shooters, later found dead from apparent self-inflicted wounds, were allegedly radicalised online after meeting there, the FBI said. They opened fire inside the mosque, displayed Nazi and white supremacist symbols, and livestreamed the attack.
• The investigation: Authorities seized over 30 firearms, including pistols, rifles, shotguns, and a crossbow, from multiple homes linked to the suspects. Investigators also recovered writings referencing “religious and racial beliefs,” according to the FBI.
Condolences, solidarity
He stressed that attacks targeting places of worship and worshippers have no place in society, reaffirming that places of worship must remain spaces of peace and refuge, and must be protected and safeguarded for all worshippers.
The UN official expressed deep condolences to the families of the victims and full solidarity with the Muslim community, underscoring that when any community is targeted because of its faith, identity, or beliefs, it undermines social cohesion and strikes at the very foundation of shared humanity.
He called for fostering the values of tolerance, coexistence, and mutual respect, and for confronting all forms of hatred, extremism, and religious discrimination.
