Iraq condemns deadly school shooting in Austria, expresses solidarity with victims

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday condemned a school shooting in Graz, Austria, that left several people dead and injured.

In a statement, the ministry said it “strongly condemns the shooting incident that occurred inside a school in the city of Graz on Tuesday, which resulted in a number of deaths and injuries.”

The ministry expressed Iraq’s solidarity with the Austrian government and people, calling the shooting a “painful incident.” It extended condolences to the victims’ families and wished the injured a swift recovery.

The shooting took place at Dreierschützengasse secondary school in the Lend district of Graz. Authorities said the gunman, identified as 21-year-old former student Artur A., entered the building at about 9:55 a.m. local time armed with a semi-automatic pistol and a shotgun. He reportedly opened fire in at least two classrooms before taking his own life in a school bathroom.

The attack is believed to be the deadliest school shooting in Austria’s history. Investigators recovered a suicide note at the suspect’s residence, but the contents have not been made public. The motive remains under investigation.