Seven Indians were injured in an attack at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany, sources revealed. Three of the injured have been discharged from the hospital. The Indian Embassy is staying in touch with those affected and providing assistance.
India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) condemned the attack, calling it a "horrific and senseless act." In a statement, the MEA expressed sympathy for the victims, saying, "Several precious lives have been lost, and many have been injured. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims."
Germany’s Chancellor Olaf Scholz also condemned the attack, describing it as "terrible and insane." The tragedy, which occurred just days before Christmas, has deeply shocked the nation. It comes eight years after a similar attack in Berlin, where a jihadist drove a truck into a Christmas market.
The suspect, identified as Taleb al-Abdulmohsen, a Saudi national, carried out the attack by driving an SUV at high speed into a crowded Christmas market. The incident killed five people, including a nine-year-old child, and injured 205 others. Victims were rushed to 15 regional hospitals for treatment.
Abdulmohsen reportedly held anti-Islamic views and was angry about Germany's migrant policies, according to reports from AFP. He described himself as an atheist and had previously been involved in activism to help Saudi women flee the kingdom. Authorities noted his psychological instability and a strong sense of self-importance.
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Reaction and Aftermath
Interior Minister Nancy Fraser said the suspect's actions were influenced by "Islamophobic" views, while prosecutors suggested his frustration with the treatment of Saudi refugees in Germany might have been a factor.
Footage of the attack showed the suspect’s black BMW plowing through the market, scattering people and leaving devastation in its wake. Stalls selling traditional goods and snacks were abandoned, and the site was later cordoned off. Out of respect for the victims, the market has been canceled for the rest of the season.
Leaders from across the political spectrum have expressed sorrow and outrage. Far-right leader Alice Weidel questioned on social media when such violence would end, using the incident to criticize immigration policies.
For locals, the attack has left a sense of unease. "What happened today affects a lot of people," said Fael Kelion, a 27-year-old Cameroonian resident of Magdeburg. "I think that since the suspect is a foreigner, the population will be less welcoming."
The tragedy has cast a shadow over the holiday season, with the community mourning the lives lost and supporting those injured.
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