V7N, 14 July- A global storm of condemnation has erupted following an assassination attempt on former US President Donald Trump. The incident occurred on Saturday, July 13, during a speech at an election rally in Pennsylvania. World leaders have widely denounced the attack.

Newly elected British Prime Minister Keir Starmer strongly condemned the political violence, while Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also voiced his condemnation. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida urged the world to stand against any attack on democracy and expressed regret over the incident. Additionally, Israel extended wishes for Trump's speedy recovery. Leaders from Australia, Italy, Canada, Hungary, and Venezuela, among others, have also expressed their sorrow and condemnation.

Details of the Attack

The attack took place at around 6:15 PM local time as Trump was delivering his speech. Gunfire erupted, and Trump was injured by a bullet that grazed his right ear, causing bleeding. He received first aid on-site and was later treated at a hospital before returning home. The suspected attacker was shot dead by police, and a supporter at the rally was also killed, according to District Attorney Richard Goldinger.

Statements from Trump and Biden

Trump took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to thank the Secret Service and law enforcement for their swift response. He expressed his disbelief at the incident and extended condolences to the family of the supporter who was killed.

US President Joe Biden condemned the attack, stating that such terrorism has no place in America. He assured a thorough investigation and strict action against the perpetrators. Biden also had a phone conversation with Trump following the incident.

Witness Accounts and FBI Investigation

Eyewitnesses reported seeing a gunman on the roof of a nearby building, armed with an AR-15 automatic rifle. The FBI has indicated that the attack was likely intended to kill Trump, although the motive remains unclear. The attacker has been identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old white male.

International Reactions

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep concern and condemned the violence, wishing Trump a speedy recovery. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the need to stand against violence that challenges democracy. Japan, too, has faced political violence, with the assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in 2022.

Analysis and Historical Context

Political analyst Ali Riaz, a Distinguished Professor at Illinois State University, commented that such incidents have occurred throughout US history and are unlikely to impact the upcoming presidential election. He noted that previous political assassinations did not affect election outcomes and suggested that the attack might be the work of a small group with conflicting ideologies.

In summary, the attack on former President Donald Trump has drawn widespread condemnation and highlighted concerns over political violence in the United States. The incident remains under investigation as leaders and citizens alike call for unity and resilience in the face of such threats to democracy.

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