Agencies | New Delhi:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday expressed relief over the safety of US President Donald Trump and other senior officials following a major security scare during a high-profile event in Washington, DC.
In a post on X, Modi said he was “relieved” to learn that Trump, the First Lady, and the Vice President were safe and unharmed after the incident. He also strongly condemned the use of violence, stating that it has no place in a democratic society and must be unequivocally rejected.
The remarks came after an armed suspect disrupted the annual White House Correspondents’ Dinner, sending shockwaves through the gathering of journalists, political leaders, and public figures.
According to reports, the attacker, carrying firearms and knives, attempted to breach security near the ballroom where the event was being held. Quick intervention by the US Secret Service prevented a major tragedy, as the suspect was intercepted before gaining access.
The situation triggered panic inside the venue, with attendees taking cover under tables after hearing multiple gunshots. Authorities later indicated that the attacker is believed to be a “lone wolf,” with no immediate evidence of a wider conspiracy.
A law enforcement officer was injured during the incident but survived due to protective gear and is expected to recover. Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser stated that there was no ongoing threat to the public.
Several top officials, including Vice President JD Vance, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, were present at the event and were safely evacuated.
The dinner was eventually called off amid heightened security concerns.
Later addressing the media, Trump described the attacker as a “sick person” and emphasised the need for stronger security measures, asserting that such threats would not be allowed to disrupt the country’s stability.
