World Leaders Express Relief Following Shooting Incident at White House Press Gala

Washington: Leaders from around the world expressed shock and relief early on Sunday after a suspected attacker was taken into custody for firing shots at a press gala dinner attended by US President Donald Trump in Washington. According to Ghana News Agency, the shots were fired while the annual White House Correspondents' Dinner was taking place at the Washington Hilton on Saturday evening. Security forces swiftly evacuated President Trump, the First Lady, and other senior officials from the ballroom. No officials or journalists were harmed, though a Secret Service officer was hit by a shot and saved by a bullet-proof vest. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed relief that the President, the First Lady, and all attendees were safe. He condemned the attack on democratic institutions and the press, emphasizing the need for strong opposition to such acts. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, a close ally of Trump, expressed shock over the attempted assassination and commended the US Secret Service for their swift response, expressing relief for the safety of the President and the First Lady. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney was among the first to react, highlighting that political violence has no place in democracy and extending his thoughts to those affected by the event. Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum also commented, stating that violence should never be the answer, underscoring the need for peaceful resolutions.