Magdeburg, Germany: Seven Indian nationals were injured during a deadly attack at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany, on Friday. Three of the injured have since been discharged from the hospital, and the Indian Embassy is in contact with the victims and their families, offering assistance.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) condemned the “horrific and senseless attack” and expressed condolences for the lives lost and the numerous injuries. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims,” said the MEA, highlighting that the Mission is actively supporting the injured and their families.
The car-ramming attack, which left five dead, occurred just days before Christmas and shocked the nation. The attacker, Taleb al-Abdulmohsen, a Saudi national, drove an SUV at high speed through a crowded Christmas market, injuring 205 people. Among the deceased was a nine-year-old child. Surveillance footage showed the vehicle speeding through the festive market, causing chaos and fear. This attack echoes the 2016 jihadist truck assault in Berlin.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz condemned the attack as “terrible” and “insane.” The suspect, who held extreme anti-Islam views, reportedly harbored resentment against Germany’s migrant policies. Officials noted that he had criticized the treatment of Saudi refugees in the country.
Following the incident, the Christmas market was canceled in remembrance of the victims, and the area was closed off. Stalls remained empty, surrounding the now somber Christmas tree.