Statement Attributable to
the Spokesperson of the High Representative for the
United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC)
on the suicide terrorist attacks
in Mastung, Balochistan and Hangu, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
New York – 30 September 2023
The High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), Mr. Miguel Ángel Moratinos, unequivocally condemns the suicide terrorist attacks, on Friday at a mosque in Hangu, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province and at a religious procession celebrating the holy occasion of Al-Mawlid Al-Nabawi Al-Sharif (Prophet Mohammed’s Birthday) in Mastung, Balochistan province, Pakistan. The gruesome bomb attacks have resulted in the deaths of at least 58 innocent people and the injury of around 70 according to the latest news reports.
The High Representative stresses that all forms of violence and acts of terror against civilians and religious sites are unacceptable and unjustifiable. He reiterates that houses of worship are sacred places where worshipers should be able to practice their faith safely and freely.
He recalls the UN Plan of Action to Safeguard Religious Sites, which was developed by UNAOC, and calls on all governments and relevant stakeholders to support the implementation of the plan to guarantee the safety of holy sites and worshipers.
On behalf of UNAOC, the High Representative expresses his condolences to the Government of Pakistan and to the victims’ families and wishes the injured a speedy recovery.