Here’s a roundup of international reactions after the US claimed that a drone strike had killed al Zahiri in Kabul.
The United States says a CIA drone strike has killed al-Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri in Afghanistan’s capital, Kabul, in the biggest blow to the group since its founder Osama bin Laden was killed in 2011.
Al-Zawahiri, an Egyptian surgeon who was offered $25m in a reward for his services, coordinated the September 11, 2001 attacks against the US that claimed the lives of approximately 3,000 people.
Here’s how the world responded to the US announcement.
United States
The US President Joe Biden announced the killing of al-Zawahiri in a televised address Monday. He said that the operation on Sunday brought justice and hopefully some closure to the families of those who were killed in the 2001 attacks on America.
“Now justice has been delivered, and this terrorist leader is no more. No matter how long it takes, no matter where you hide, if you are a threat to our people, the United States will find you and take you out.”
Canada
In a post on Twitter, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said al-Zawahiri’s death made the world a safer place.
“The death of Ayman alZawahiri marks a significant step toward a safer planet. Canada will continue to work alongside its global partners in countering terrorist threats, promoting peace and security, as well as keeping people safe here and around the globe.”
The death of Ayman al-Zawahiri is a step toward a safer world. Canada will keep working with our global partners to counter terrorist threats, promote peace and security, and keep people here at home and around the world safe.
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) August 2, 2022
Australia
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese addressed Parliament and listed the various attacks alZawahiri was alleged to have been responsible before sending his thoughts, prayers, and condolences for the families of those who were hurt.
“So many lives have been lost and so much blood has been spilled since, including all those Australians who served, sacrificed and gave their lives in Afghanistan,” said Albanese.
“For two decades, this man fled the consequences of his crimes. Today, our thoughts are with all of his loved ones.
“May they find some small solace in the knowledge that he cannot cause more grief through his acts of terror, and let terrorists see that Afghanistan will never, ever be a safe haven for their hatred, their terrorism and their attacks on our humanity,” he added.
Saudi Arabia
Saudi state media quoted the kingdom’s foreign minister, Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, as saying: “Al-Zawahiri is considered one of the leaders of terrorism that led the planning and execution of heinous terrorist operations in the United States and Saudi Arabia.”
Taliban
Taliban, who seized power in Afghanistan almost a year ago, confirmed that Kabul was attacked but didn’t name the victims. Spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid strongly condemned the attack, calling it a violation of “international principles”.
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