2014 Peshawar school massacre: Difference between revisions

2014 Peshawar School Attack
Location of the attack: Army Public School is located in the centre
Location	The Army Public School, Warsak Road, Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
Coordinates	34°00′49″N 71°32′10″E
Date	16 December 2014 10:30 am PST – 19:56 pm PST (UTC+05:00)
Target	Students and school staff
Attack type	Suicide bombing, spree killing, hostage-taking, school shooting
Deaths	145 (including 132 children)
Injured	114
Perpetrators	7 members of Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan
Motive	retaliation for Operation Zarb-e-Azb

On 16 December 2014, seven members of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) perpetrated a terrorist attack on the Army Public School in the Pakistani city of Peshawar. They entered the school and opened fire on school staff and children, killing 145 people, including 132 school children, mostly between 8 and 18 years of age. A rescue operation was launched by the Pakistan Army's Special Services Group (SSG) special forces, who killed all seven terrorists and rescued 960 people. Chief military spokesman Major General Asim Bajwa said in a press conference that at least 130 people had been injured in the attack.

This was the deadliest terrorist attack ever to occur in Pakistan, surpassing the 2007 Karachi bombing. According to various news agencies and commentators, the nature and preparation of the attack by the terrorists was very similar to that of the Beslan school hostage crisis that occurred in the North Ossetia–Alania region of Russia in 2004.

Background

Main articles: War in North-West Pakistan, Operation Zarb-e-Azb, and Operation Khyber-1

The Army Public School is located at Warsak Road near the Peshawar Cantt, and is part of Army Public Schools and College Systems that runs 146 schools in Pakistan.

Beginning in June 2014, a joint military offensive is being conducted by the Pakistan Armed Forces against various terrorist groups in North Waziristan which has been the site of a wave of violence. The military offensive, Operation Zarb-e-Azb, was launched in the wake of the 8 June attack on Jinnah International Airport in Karachi, for which the TTP claimed responsibility. It is part of the ongoing war in North-West Pakistan in which more than 1,200 terrorists have been killed so far, and almost 90% of North Waziristan has been cleared.

Attack

The attack began at around 10:00 a.m. when six gunmen, dressed in uniforms of the Pakistani paramilitary force, the Frontier Corps, entered the school from the back through a cemetery adjacent to the school after having scaled the walls. Before entering the school, the gunmen set fire to the Suzuki Bolan ST41 van in which they had arrived. The terrorists, bearing automatic weapons, moved straight toward the auditorium located at the centre of the complex and opened fire indiscriminately on the children who were gathered there for a school function. According to the Director General of the Inter-Services Public Relations, the public relations department of the Pakistan Armed Forces, Major-General Asim Bajwa, the terrorists did not intend to take any hostages but instead wanted to kill as many pupils as they could. As the terrorists opened fire, many of the pupils ran toward the two exits on the other side of the auditorium, but many of them were gunned down in the garden.

Reports also surfaced that pupils were forced to watch teachers, including principal Tahira Kazi, being burned alive before them. Within 5-7 minutes, the Army SSG teams had stormed the school and entered in the premises from two sides in their heavy armored vehicles and trucks. Immediately, the SSG personnel engaged with the terrorists that prevented them going after and killing other remaining teaching staff and students. The gunmen moved to the administration block of the school and took hostages there. One of them was shot by the military personnel near the auditorium, while the other six managed to make it to the administration block. The media OB vans, emergency trauma teams in Sprinter vans, and units of medical corps in military armored vehicles were rushed to the school, military police corps and civilian police worked toward closing any ways for terrorists to escape.

Meanwhile, the SSG commandos had reached the area and surrounded the administration block. Most of the operation took place in the attempt to clear this block and rescue the hostages taken by the gunmen. Special teams of snipers and their navigators pin-pointed the terrorists; three out of six attackers were killed by the snipers from the windows and air vents, while the other three were killed when the commandos stormed the building and rescued many hostages in the process. Seven commandos, including two officers, were injured in the battle. A search and clearance operation was started immediately to defuse any IEDs planted by the gunmen within the school premises or in the suicide vests that the terrorists were wearing.

The terrorists were in contact with their handlers during the attack, but soon after the SSG had moved in, the security forces intercepted the terrorists' communications. "We know who they are and who they were in contact with but details can not be shared due to operation reasons. They were aware of locations and they must have carried out the recon of the area. And it is highly possible that someone from inside might have tipped them off" said Bajwa.

Casualties

A total of ~1,099 pupils and teaching staff were present on the school premises, of whom responding forces were successful in rescuing ~960, though 121 were injured. A total of 145 people including 132 children, 10 school staff members and 3 soldiers were killed in the attack. An injured school teacher stated that all the children of the 9th class died, not one surviving. There were about 5 sections of 9th class, each class containing about 40 students. This would make about 200 students overall in all the sections.

Some unofficial sources stated that death toll was more than 300. Sources also stated that in CMH (Combined Military Hospital) the lawns were flooded with coffins and dead bodies.

• Pictures of the Peshawar school terrorist attack
• File:Peshawar child attack,mourning.jpg
• File:Peshawar-2014,blooded note book .jpg

Responsibility

The Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) claimed responsibility for the attack, describing it as revenge for Operation Zarb-e-Azb, the Pakistan Army's military offensive in North Waziristan that started in summer 2014.

TTP spokesman Muhammad Omar Khorasani said that "we targeted the school because the Army targets our families. We want them to feel our pain." "Our six fighters successfully entered the Army school and we are giving them instructions from outside," said Khorasani by phone. Khorasani also said "Our suicide bombers have entered the school, they have instructions not to harm the children, but to target the Army personnel. It's a revenge attack for the Army offensive in North Waziristan."

Reactions

Domestic reactions

Government

I have decided to proceed to Peshawar and I will supervise the operation myself. These are my children and it is my loss.

— Nawaz Sharif, Prime Minister of Pakistan

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has condemned the attack, calling it a national tragedy. Sharif left for Peshawar to monitor the operation and announced a three-day mourning period during which the National Flag would fly at half mast.

President Mamnoon Hussain condemned the attack, saying "such cowardly attacks cannot deter the morale and resolve of the Nation."

Chief Minister of the Province of Punjab Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack, saying "The incident of terrorism is highly condemnable and 180 million people of the country are shocked and grieved over the tragic incident." The Chief Minister appealed to Imran Khan, Maulana Fazal-ur-Rehman, Altaf Hussain, Asfandyar Wali Khan, Mahmood Khan Achakzai, Maulana Samiul Haq, Siraj Ul Haq, leaders of all political and religious parties and civil society to be united for the sake of Pakistan.

Political entities

Major political entities denounced the attack and heavily condemned the attack on innocent children's, calling for a strong reaction against militants.

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf leader Imran Khan condemned the attack and announced the end of the protest Azadi March.

Muttahida Qaumi Movement leader Altaf Hussain, Jamiat Ulema e Islam leader Maulana Fazal-ur-Rehman, Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan leader Siraj-ul-Haq Khan, Pakistan Awami Tehrik leader Tahirul Qadri condemned the attack.

Public

The attack sparked widespread reactions in mainstream media and in social media in Pakistan, receiving condemnations from public, journalists, and social scientists. Pakistani media reacted strongly to the events, with major newspapers and news channels questioning the government's the failure of security apparatus in preventing such an attack, and with many commentators calling for renewed action against militants.

Others

Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai condemned the attack, saying in a statement: "I am heartbroken by this senseless and cold-blooded act of terror in Peshawar that is unfolding before us".Her father, Ziauddin Yousafzai said his "heart is bleeding" and his family in "traumatized" over Peshawar school massacre.

After Abdul Aziz Ghazi, the head cleric of Lal Masjid in Islamabad refused to condemn the attack, he received huge backlash on social media and a large number of protestors gathered outside the mosque demanding his arrest. Police were deployed outside the mosque to prevent clashes. In reaction, the mosque management registered FIR against protestors after which police made some arrests.

Queen Elizabeth II condemned the attack saying "deepest sympathies from me and from those of the people of United Kingdom to all those affected by the tragic event in Peshawar."

Charles, Prince of Wales at the St Paul's Cathedral condemned Taliban's slaughter of 132 childrens as a "sickening example of sacrilege", He further said "horrific reminder".

International reactions

Governments

• Afghanistan – President Ashraf Ghani condemned the attack and said "The killing of innocent children is contrary to Islam." "We share the pains and sufferings of Pakistan's people, and condemn in strongest possible terms this terrorist, brutal, non-Islamic and inhuman act.” Ghani said over telephonic conversation with Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif.
• Algeria – Spokesman of Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a press statement condemned the attack and said "We express our indignation at this heinous and barbaric crime, which cannot be justified under any circumstances. The horror endured by these innocent victims reflects the blind and inhuman assailants and their sponsors. We extend our sympathy with the victims' families and solidarity with the Government of Pakistan."
• Albania – Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a press release to condemn the attack. "The Albanian MFA extends its sincere condolences to the families of the victims and to all persons affected by this tragedy of active terrorism, expresses its sincere support to the Pakistani authorities in facing this new situation and hopes for the rapid healing of the wounded persons." the statement reads.
• Andorra – Ministry of Foreign Affairs on behalf of the Government and people of Andorra, expressed it condolences with the families of victims.
• Australia – Prime Minister Tony Abbott in a statement said "It is impossible to put into words the mixture of grief and fury that must be felt by people in Pakistan, and indeed around the world, at this latest terrorist atrocity in Peshawar. What struck that school was an act of cowardice and depravity beyond measure. It is an unspeakable tragedy, and Australia condemns this horrific act of violence.” Minister for Foreign Affairs Julie Bishop issued an official statement saying that Australia and Pakistan "share a common sense of grief and outrage at this senseless attack."
• Austria – Foreign Minister Sebastian Kurz in a tweet condemned the attack saying "Such horrible acts can never be justified" and sent condolence to families of the victims.
• Azerbaijan – Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a press statement condemned the attack saying "Azerbaijan expressed its heartfelt condolences and sympathy to the bereaved families and the brotherly people of Pakistan and wished the many injured a speedy recovery. Azerbaijan, as a victim of terrorism, condemns terrorism in all forms and reiterates that there is no justification for terrorism at all." Azerbaijani Ambassador to Pakistan Dakshin Shikarov said "More than hundred Innocent children and teachers became the victims of this brutal act. We share the pain of those who lost their beloveds and express our deepest condolences. We pray to Allah Almighty to rest the departed souls in eternal peace. Aamin."
• Bahrain – Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a press release to condemn the attack. "Kingdom of Bahrain affirmed full support to Pakistan in confronting and defeating terrorist groups, and offered condolences to the Pakistani Government, people and relatives of the victims of the barbaric act." the press release said.
• Bangladesh – Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in a statement said "People across the world are stunned and shocked by this barbaric and heinous massacre."
• Belgium – Foreign Minister Didier Reynders strongly condemned the attack and offered condolences to victims saying "These are acts of utmost cruelty that touch the core of a society and negate the most basic human rights. Radicalisation and extremism always lead to destruction and loss of life. It is international diplomacy's duty to promote moderation, prevent radicalisation and fight impunity through respect of international humanitarian and human rights law. This endeavour is at the core of Belgium's foreign policy."
• Bulgaria – Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the attack and issued a statement saying “We reaffirm our strong support of the efforts of the international community for eradication of all forms of terrorism and remain committed to the furthering of the EU-Pakistan counter-terrorism dialogue.”
• Canada – Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird in a press conference said "He was sickened to learn militants had gunned down more than 120 people. Canada unequivocally condemns this heinous act."
• China – Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang in a statement said "We are deeply shocked and grieved by the attack and condemn in the strongest terms the terrorists. China will continue to firmly support the unremitting Pakistani efforts to fight terrorism, safeguard national stability and save people's lives." Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang both sent separate messages of condolences to the Pakistani leaders. President Xi said that he was shocked to learn about the serious terrorist attack. On behalf of the Chinese government and people and in his own name, Xi deeply mourned the victims and conveyed heartfelt sympathy to the injured and the bereaved families. Both messages stressed that the Chinese side opposes all forms of terrorism and strongly condemns the inhumane terrorist attack, that the thoughts of the Chinese people are with the Pakistani people, and that China firmly supports the counter-terrorism efforts by the Pakistani Government. China’s Ambassador to Pakistan Sun Weidong condemned the attack and reiterated "Chinese cooperation and firm support for eliminating the menace of terrorism from the country." The ambassador also presented the Special Assistant to the Prime Minister with condolence letters from President Xi, Premier Li and Foreign Minister Wang Yi to their respective Pakistani counterparts. Ambassador Sun also presented a cheque of $50,000 for the victims of the attack, on behalf of the Chinese Embassy in Islamabad.
• Colombia – Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a press release condemning the terrorist attack in Peshawar and stated that "The Government of Colombia expresses its most deepest condolences to the civilian population, and Government, of Pakistan, and wishes for a speedy recovery for those harmed and affected.
• Denmark – Prime Minister Helle Thorning-Schmidt while speaking in parliament condemned the attack and said "It is a very serious situation. I am simply appalled that the Taliban can find to attack a school. Over 100 deaths are reported. It is heartbreaking and shows the evil Taliban stands for; and it stresses the importance of the fact that we are still fighting the Taliban, also in relation to what we do in Afghanistan.”
• Egypt – The Egyptian ministry of foreign affairs spokesman Badr Abdelatty said that the Egyptian government condemns the attack and gives its condolences to Pakistanis and the families of the victims. He stressed the importance of “international collaboration to counter-terrorism, as it is considered a global phenomenon targeting security and stability all over the world”.
• France – President François Hollande in a statement condemned the attack saying "No words can express the ignominy of such an attack against children in their school and that France supported the Government of Pakistan in their fight against terrorism" and expressed solidarity with the victims and their parents."
• Georgia – Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the attack in a press statement and said "We are shocked with the extent of the tragedy and barbarity committed by the terrorists, which is a grave crime against the entire civilized world. In this difficult moment we stand with the people of Pakistan and convey our condolences to the families of the terrorism victims."
• Germany – Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier in a statement condemned the attack saying "We mourn with the people of Pakistan, the victims of this bloody terrorist attack. Our heart goes out to the families of the victims".
• Greece – Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Evangelos Venizelos condemned the attack in a press release and said “We are shocked at the incomprehensible, barbaric, inhuman terrorist attack of the Taliban of Pakistan on a school in the city of Peshawar; an attack that resulted in the deaths of dozens of innocent children. The fact that the terrorists targeted children is abhorrent, evoking rage at the craven killers who murdered defenseless children. We express our deep condolences to the families of the victims and our undivided support for the people and the Government of Pakistan.”
• India – In the aftermath of the attack, there was an outpouring of solidarity in India with the hashtag #IndiaWithPakistan was trending on Twitter.
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the attack. “It is a senseless act of unspeakable brutality that has claimed lives of the most innocent of human beings – young children in their school.” Modi said on his Twitter account. “My heart goes out to everyone who lost their loved ones today. We share their pain & offer our deepest condolences.“
  • President Pranab Mukherjee in a message said "Such heinous acts are against all tenets of humanity. They are nothing but a manifestation of the extreme evil that terrorists are capable of. The world community must unite and redouble efforts to root out terrors from every country and society."
  • Minister for Home Affairs Rajnath Singh issued a statement to express his condolence to the families and said "I strongly condemn the terrorist attack on a school at Peshawar (Pakistan). This dastardly and inhuman attack exposes the real face of terrorism. My heart goes out to the families of those children who were killed by the terrorists in Peshawar."
  • Indian Foreign Ministry spokesman Syed Akbaruddin tweeted, "We condemn the horrific attack on innocent school children in Peshawar. Our hearts go out to the grief stricken families of the innocent children killed & injured in this barbaric attack in Peshawar. Feeling of deep revulsion & horror about this terror attack against innocent children."
  • Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah in a tweet said "Inhuman and "barbaric words were not enough to describe the perpetrators. What terrible, heart breaking images of the attack in #Peshawar. Inhuman and barbaric don't even begin to describe the perpetrators."
  • Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi commented "We stand united with the people of Pakistan in their resolve to fight the menace of terrorism."
  • Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar, Chief Ministers of Madhya Pradesh Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Rajasthan Vasundhara Raje and Gujarat Anandiben Patel also condemned the attack and offered condolences. Lok Sabha, the lower house of Indian parliament, as well schools across India observed a two-minute silence and held special prayers to remember the victims. The hashtag #IndiaWithPakistan was trending on Twitter following the attack.
• Indonesia – Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a statement called the attack "an inhuman act" that could not be tolerated for any reason and offered condolences and on behalf of the Indonesian government expressed its support and solidarity for the people and Government of Pakistan.
• Iran – President Hassan Rouhani condemned the attack and sent condolences to families of victims. Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Marziyeh Afkham in a press conference said “This is a totally un-Islamic and inhumane action,” adding that terrorism, extremism and putting innocent people’s lives at risk in any form and with any purpose are reprehensible. Afkham further said cooperation among the regional countries and the world community is necessary in order to fight terrorism and extremism.
• Ireland – Minister of Foreign Affairs Charlie Flanagan condemned the attack and said "I wholeheartedly condemn the tragic killing of school children and others in Pakistan today. This was an attack of savage brutality which targeted innocent children in their place of study. I wish to express my heartfelt condolences and those of the Irish people to the families of the victims and to the people and the authorities of Pakistan on this tragic day."
• Italy – Prime Minister Matteo Renzi condemned the attack on his Twitter account, saying "Killing children at school is an inconceivable horror, the world must react to this violence."
• Japan – Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga on behalf of Japanese government condemned the attack and called it "unforgivable". “We are in deep shock and sorrow. Our country strongly condemns any form of terrorism, and this one is especially unforgivable, as it targeted students who hold the future in their hands. ” He said.
• Jordan – Queen Rania expressed her grief over attack saying "Till when will innocent children pay the horrific price of extremism." The queen later also published a piece dedicated to the victims on her Huffington Post blog. The State Minister for Media Affairs, Mohammad al-Momani, offered the Jordanian people's heartfelt condolences to the people of Pakistan and described the attack as horrendous and criminal act that has nothing to do with Islam. He further said Jordan will always stand against and continue its fight against terrorism and those who target civilians. King Abdullah II sent a cable to the President of Pakistan, offering his condolences. The king also condemned such criminal action, expressing his deep sorrow and heartfelt condolences for the victims.
• Kazakhstan – Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the attack and release a press statement saying "We express our deep condolences to the Government of Pakistan, the families and close ones of those who perished and wish speedy recovery to all injured during the terrorist attack. The killing of innocent children and teachers causes special indignation and revulsion and shows the utmost inhuman nature of terrorists."
• Kenya – Ministry of Foreign Affairs on behalf of Government of Keny condemned the attack in a press statement. "We pray for the families and people of Pakistan and strongly condemn the senseless act of unspeakable brutality. Our hearts go out to grief stricken families of innocent kids killed and injured in this terrible attack in Peshawar." cabinet secretary Ambassador Amina Mohammed said.
• Malaysia – Ministry of Foreign Affairs on a statement said "Malaysia strongly condemns the attack that resulted in the loss of 141 lives including 132 school children and wounded dozens of other students and educators. The senseless killing and attack on school children by the perpetrators, for whatever reason, is uncalled for and inhumane in nature. Malaysia as a peace loving country is against any kind of violent attacks in the region. We are ready to support Pakistan in their peace building efforts as Malaysia continues to promote the moderation agenda and mediation approach". Prime Minister Najib Razak together with Foreign Affairs Minister Anifah Aman has express their condolence and sympathies to the Government and people of Pakistan, as well as to the bereaved families of the victims of the attack.
• South Korea – Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the attack and release a press release which reads " The Government of the Republic of Korea cannot but be shocked and outraged over the terrorist attack on the Army Public School in Peshawar in northwestern Pakistan on December 16 that left a large number of people, including school children, killed or injured. The ROK government prays for the repose of the innocent people killed in the attack and offers its deepest condolences and consolation to their bereaved families as well as the Pakistani people."
• Kuwait – National Assembly of Kuwait Speaker Marzouq Al-Ghanim met with Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, speaker of the National Assembly of Pakistan in Kuwait and condemned the attack on behalf of Government of Kuwait. Al-Ghanim offered condolences to families of victims and expressed solidarity.
• Latvia – Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a press statement said "Latvia conveys its deepest condolences to Pakistan concerning the attack by a group of Taliban on a school in Peshawar in which both children and teachers were killed and injured. Latvia categorically condemns terrorism and violence. Latvia expresses heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims. On this tragic day, our feelings are with the people of Pakistan. Latvia supports the efforts of the Pakistani authorities that are aimed at ensuring peace and stability at home and in the region, and are based on national interests and international cooperation."
• Lithuania – President Dalia Grybauskaite in a condolence letter to the President of Pakistan condemned the attack and expressed her solidarity to the people and Government of Pakistan and called "that who organized, participated or otherwise contributed to the attack that shocked the whole international community must be brought to justice."
• Luxembourg – Prime Minister Xavier Bettel in a condolence letter to Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif condemned the attack and expressed his solidarity to the people and Government of Pakistan.
• Maldives – President Abdulla Yameen send two condolence letters addressed to Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif mentioning "Maldives commitment to fight against the global menace of terrorism and conveyed that Maldives would continue to work closely with Pakistan and the international community as a whole in eliminating this scourge of terrorism."
• Morocco – King Muhammad condemned the attack saying "I was appalled and deeply saddened by the news of the horrific terrorist attack on a school in Peshawar which caused a large number of casualties, most of them innocent children. In my capacity as Commander of the Faithful, and in keeping with my responsibilities at the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, I strongly condemn all forms of terrorism, which is totally incompatible with our pristine Islamic faith, the revealed religions and human principles and democratic values which make the right to life the foremost human right on earth."
• Nepal – Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a press release saying "At this hour of grief, the government of Nepal extends heartfelt condolences and sympathies to the Government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and through them to the bereaved families and prays for the speedy recovery of those injured."
• New Zealand – Prime Minister John Key condemned the attack in press conference saying ""Like everybody, we're horrified by what we have seen take place in Pakistan overnight. We utterly condemn the actions that have taken place." The President of Pakistan Association of New Zealand also condemned the attack calling it "inhumane".
• Nigeria – President Goodluck Jonathan condemned the attack and offered condolences to Pakistani people and Government. "The president wholly condemns the brutal, savage, senseless and totally unjustifiable killing of innocent students and staff during the attack," the statement said.
• Norway – Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the attack and issued a press release quoting Foreign Minister Børge Brende. "I condemn today’s terrorist attack on a school in Peshawar in the strongest possible terms. Targeting children and teachers in this manner is despicable." the release reads. King Harald V offered condolences to the Pakistani President in a message saying that "I was shocked and saddened by the tragic loss of so many young lives at the Army Public School in Peshawar. On behalf of myself and the Norwegian people, I extend to you, the families of the victims and to the people of Pakistan my condolences and deepest sympathy."
• Oman – Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the attack and release a press release saying "The government of the Sultanate of Oman condemns the terrorist attack that was carried out by Pakistani Taliban which targeted children's school in the city of Peshawar in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and resulted in a number of deaths and wounded innocent children and teachers. The Sultanate's government stands by the Government and people of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and support their efforts to fight terrorism so as to enhance the security and stability in this friend country and the region."
• Philippines – President Benigno Aquino in a statement condemned the attacked and said "Today, we join the world in condemning the outrage perpetrated on innocent schoolchildren, and school officials and personnel in Peshawar, Pakistan. In this moment of grief and sadness for the people of Pakistan, the Filipino people are one with them in mourning. Today, every person of goodwill is a father, mother, brother, and sister to the people of Pakistan.”
• Poland – Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement to condemn the attack. "We strongly denounce all acts of terrorism, the more so when they are targeted against children who are the most vulnerable and innocent. We hope that those responsible for this attack will be brought to justice and will be severely punished. We expressed our sincere condolences to the families and close ones of the victims of the attack in Peshawar and to the people of Pakistan, who can count on our solidarity in these difficult moments" the statement reads.
• Romania – Foreign Affairs Minister Bogdan Aurescu described the attack as "a barbaric act" and called for those responsible to be brought to justice. He also sent condolences to the victims' families and expressed solidarity with the Pakistani people.
• Russia – President Vladimir Putin condemn the attack and sent condolence message to Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. The Russian Foreign Ministry strongly condemned the attacks, and added: "We support the measures undertaken by the Government of Pakistan aimed at the extermination of the hotbeds of terrorism. We expect Pakistan to continue with its uncompromising struggle to eliminate the extremist infrastructure. Russia is ready to proceed with assisting the Pakistani Government in its efforts to fight terror."
• Saudi Arabia – Grand Mufti Abdul-Aziz ibn Abdullah Al ash-Sheikh condemned the attack describing it as "corruption, injustice and aggression." He further added that "It’s appalling to see many people being killed in Muslim countries these days and this should wake up Muslims as it’s a dangerous action and a big crime.”
• Singapore – Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a press statement in which they condemned the attack. "Singapore strongly condemns the attack on the Army Public School in Peshawar, Pakistan. This is a heinous crime. We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of so many innocent lives and the large number of people injured. We express our deepest condolences and sympathy to the families of the victims and the people of Pakistan." the statement reads.
• Slovenia – Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the attack calling it "barbaric" and offered its since condolences to the victims and their families on behalf of people and government of Slovenia.
• South Africa – Department of International Relations and Cooperation spokesman Clayson Monyela in a press release condemn the attack saying "The South African Government has today... joined the international community in condemning in the strongest possible terms the inhumane and barbaric terrorist attack against a school in the city of Peshawar."
• Spain – President of the Government Mariano Rajoy sent condolences to the Prime Minister of Pakistan in the name of the Spanish people: "I cannot imagine a more disgusting terrorist act on human dignity. My country has also known the indiscriminate pain and suffering of terrorism and violence. For this, you can count on my Government's full support and the firm commitment of Spain in the fight against this scourge."
• Sri Lanka – President Mahinda Rajapaksa condemned the attack. "Horrified to learn of the Peshawar terrorist attack. Targeting of children is most cowardice. Our thoughts & prayers are with Pakistan." Rajapaksa said on his Twitter account.
• Syria – Speaker of the People's Assembly Mohammed Jihad Al-Laham stated “We assert standing by the Pakistani people, Government and leadership in combating terrorism which is targeting lives, civilization and noble values that have brought our peoples together, and we surely support Pakistan's deterrent procedures against the expansion of terrorism which is supported by well-known states in the Middle East and the colonial West,”; Al-Laham also added “ we in the People’s Assembly express our sympathy and solidarity with you during this hard time, wishing the injured a swift recovery and hoping that Pakistan will eradicate terrorism soon so that Pakistani people can live in peace.” The Syrian Foreign Ministry voiced "Syria's deep condolences to the families of the victims and sympathy with the friendly people and Government of Pakistan."
• Tajikistan – President Emomali Rahmon condemned the attack and sent a condolence letter to Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif which reads "Deeply convinced that this terrible event, which once again has shown the world community cowardly face of international terrorism, strengthens our will to continue the relentless fight against this shameful phenomenon of the century and will give impetus to international cooperation in preventing violence and extremism."
• Tunisia – Caretaker President of Tunisia Moncef Marzouki condemned the attack calling it a "heinous crime" and offered condolences.
• Turkey – President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoğlu condemned the attack and announced a day of national mourning in Turkey. Foreign Ministry issued a statement which reads "The attack in Peshawar, which aimed at disrupting the country's domestic peace and security, caused deep sadness in Turkey. Turkey is determined to continue its solidarity with the Pakistani Government and its people and will continue supporting Pakistan's fight against terrorism."
• Vatican City – Pope Francis in a gathering in St. Peter's Square condemned the attacks in Australia, Pakistan and Yemen. "I would like to pray together with you for the victims of the inhuman terrorist acts carried out in the past few days in Australia, Pakistan and Yemen. May God welcome the dead into his peace, comfort the families and convert the hearts of the violent ones, who do not even stop before children."
• United Arab Emirates – Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan condemned the attack on behalf of Government of United Arab Emirates saying "In this painful and difficult moment, we stand by Pakistan and its people in the face of this blind extremism and criminal terrorism and ask the Allah the Almighty to bless the young and innocent victims of heinous malice, perpetual hatred and dark violence. As we pray for the souls of innocent children, we ask Allah the Almighty to grant solace and strength to their parents, families and to the people of friendly Pakistan.”
• United Kingdom – Prince Charles condemned the attack saying "It was horrific reminder Muslims themselves are the victims of the violent intolerance of the extremists." British Prime Minister David Cameron condemned the attack and expressed deep shock at the tragedy. "The news from Pakistan is deeply shocking. It's horrifying that children are being killed simply for going to school." Cameron said on his Twitter account. Former Prime Minister Gordon Brown and leader of Labour Party Ed Miliband condemned the attack.
• United States – President Barack Obama in a statement said "The United States condemns in the strongest possible terms today's horrific attack... " US Ambassador to Pakistan Richard Olson condemned the attack in a statement, saying "The United States strongly condemns senseless and inhumane attacks on innocent students and educators, and stands in solidarity with the people of Pakistan, and all who fight the menace of terrorism." Secretary of State John Kerry said "the perpetrators of this act of terror must be brought to justice."

Inter-governmental organisations

• European Union – Federica Mogherini the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy in a statement condemned the attack saying "I wish to express my heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and my support to the people and the authorities of Pakistan on this tragic day."

• Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf - Secretary general Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, on behalf of the GCC states, strongly condemned the attack saying that its perpetrators "were stripped out of all human sentiments" and expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and the Pakistani Government wishing the injured a speedy recovery.

• Organisation of the Islamic Conference – Secretary general Iyad bin Amin Madani issued a press release condemning the attack calling it "horrific and senseless terrorist attack". Madani offered solidarity and condolences to the Government and people of Pakistan. He said that "the OIC’s principled position denouncing all acts of terrorism no matter what the justifications are."

• United Nations – Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon condemned the attack saying "An act of horror and rank cowardice to attack defenceless children while they learn. No cause can justify such brutality. No grievance can excuse such horror. Getting an education is every child's right. Going to school should not have to be an act of bravery." United Nations representative in Pakistan Timo Pakkala in a statement said it is "appalled by this act of cruelty and brutality. Attacking children and children’s education is a disregard of the most fundamental principles of humanity and we reaffirm our strongest commitment to protecting children’s rights." Prince Zeid bin Ra'ad United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights said "Nowhere in the world should it be an act of bravery for a child to attend school. Yet, in parts of Pakistan, Afghanistan and Nigeria simply showing up at school takes tremendous courage and determination. In recent years, my staff have been receiving increasing frequent reports in these three countries of schools being destroyed or closed because of militants' threats, and of schoolchildren – especially girls – being kidnapped, shot, attacked with acid or poisoned by groups whose ideology bears no resemblance to any religion or any cultural norm."

Other organisations

•  – Afghan Taliban - Zabihullah Mujahid, the spokesman of Afghan Taliban, condemned the attack saying "the intentional killing of innocent people, children and women are against the basics of Islam and this criteria has to be considered by every Islamic party and government".
•  – Amnesty International – Deputy Director David Griffiths said: "There can be absolutely no justification for targeting children in this way. This unconscionable Taliban attack is a grave reminder that civilians in north-west Pakistan desperately need effective protection from militant groups".

Aftermath

Candlelight vigil in London, UK for the victims of the terrorist attack

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People reading prayers for the victims from the Holy Quran in Karachi.

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Indian school girls mourn the victims of the terrorist attack.

The popular opinion was one of anger against the TTP soon after the attacks. The Government and the Armed Forces showed immediate reaction to the incident.

According to the Iranian-American scholar, Vali Nasr, "the Taliban may be trying to slacken the resolve of the military by suggesting that there could be a tremendous human costs to the military offensive and create public pressure on the military to back off from this offensive, but it may actually ricochet on them."

Lifting of moratorium on executions of terrorists

On 17 December 2014, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif approved paperwork to remove a moratorium on the death penalty in terror-related cases. Sources from the Prime Minister's Secretariat stated: "The Prime Minister has approved abolishment of moratorium on the execution of death penalty in terrorism-related cases." Pakistan has had a moratorium on executions since 2008. Currently there are approximately 800 people on death row in Pakistan in terrorism related cases. The move comes following the wide held perception that terrorists are never brought to justice in Pakistan. Many times, the judges and witnesses are too scared to come forward and award due sentences to the terrorists. And even when the terrorists are convicted and sent to the prisons, the frail policing system of Pakistan has seen many jailbreaks, including the Bannu and Dera Ismail Khan jailbreaks, in which many high profile terrorists have escaped.

David Griffiths, Deputy Director for Amnesty International Asia-Pacific opposed the decision, saying "Resorting to the death penalty is not the answer – it is never the answer. This is where the government should focus its energies, rather than perpetuating the cycle of violence with the resumption of executions."

Retaliation

Retaliatory airstrikes

On 17 December, the Pakistan Air Force's F-16s and JF-17s jets engaged in bombings against terrorist hideouts in the Tirah Valley, close to the Afghan border targeting 57 terrorists. Twenty additional aerial bombing missions were carried out using dynamic targeting.

Reaction by Pakistan's security agencies

After the attack, Pakistani security agencies reacted immediately by arresting 4 TTP terrorists in Quetta. The security agencies also gunned down Abid Machhar a key TTP leader with 3 associates in Musharraf Colony of Karachi. Police also arrested 5 members of Al-Qaeda's newly formed South Asian chapter suspected of carrying out an attack on a naval dockyard in Karachi in September. Pakistan Rangers personnel also killed five members of the TTP in a clash in the Manghopir area of Karachi.

Communications with Afghanistan and ISAF

On 17 December, Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff General Raheel Sharif, accompanied by the Director General of the Inter-Service Intelligence, Lieutenant-General Rizwan Akhtar, went on a visit to Kabul to meet with Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and General John F. Campbell, the commander of American and NATO forces in Afghanistan. According to the news sources in Pakistan, General Raheel asked for the handovers of TTP leadership and asked the Afghan government to act against hideouts of the Taliban terrorists in its territory. At the meeting with Afghan officials, General Raheel delivered a message to Afghan National Army's's Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Sher Mohammad Karimi, "to take decisive action against sanctuaries of the TTP or else Pakistan would go for a hot pursuit." One intelligence official confirmed the message relayed to Afghan president and reportedly cautioned that "if Afghan authorities fail to act this time, we will explore all options, including hot pursuit." In further talks, [General Raheel told the Afghan president that "Pakistan's military could eliminate TTP's sanctuaries in Kunar and Nuristan on its own but was showing restraint due to Afghanistan's sovereignty and territorial integrity. President Ashraf Ghani assured General Raheel that his country would take all the necessary steps to root out the terrorists. A joint operation against the Taliban was also discussed with the Afghan leadership. In a media report published in the The Nation, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif released a separate statement to Afghan president on a "hot pursuit" and has sent a message to Kabul reportedly stressing: "Wipe out Taliban or we will."

The Pakistani military is now actively on pursuit on manhunt missions after the attack. On the night of December 18th, the Pakistan Army's military units stalked the fleeing terrorists and immediately launched a simultaneous ground offense in the Khyber Agency and the Tirah Valley when the terrorists were on run in moving to Afghanistan. In the assault, there were reports that some terrorists had fled and had left behind the dead bodies of their fellow terrorist companions – photos of which have been circulating on social media. On a separate air strike in Khyber Agency on the same night, the Pakistan Air Force's fighter aircraft reportedly hunted and killed a top commander and 17 other terrorists while attempting to flee to Afghanistan.

See also

• List of hostage crises