Total solidarity with Brussels victims

 A UAE newspaper has said that Tuesday turned out to be a dark day not only for Europe but the entire world that stands in total solidarity with the innocent victims of terror strikes in Belgium.

"The barbaric attacks on Brussels airport and a rush-hour metro train in the Belgian capital highlight the need for the world to unite more vigorously against all types of terror," said The Gulf Today in an editorial on Wednesday.

"The chaotic scenes recalled the days in the wake of the November Paris attacks, when Brussels was put on lockdown for five days as officials warned of an imminent threat. Sadly, the city remained crippled with transport networks shut, trams, buses and trains brought to a standstill and the European Union quarter completely sealed off by police.

"While the recent high-profile capture of Salah Abdeslam, the prime suspect in the Paris terror attacks, did bring in some relief, it is now obvious that the terror threat is far from over.

"There is justified fear that more suspects could still be at large in the city that is home to both NATO and the European Union and that should be addressed more seriously.

"What is worse is that the cowardly killings by terrorists in Belgium have given a chance to US Republican presidential frontrunner Donald to trump up more divisive agenda.

"Terming Brussels a "disaster city" where assimilation has failed, Trump has used the tragic incident to reiterate his bigoted belief that the US should close its borders 'until we figure out what’s going on.' "The killings had their impact on global stock markets too with all European markets opening lower. The British pound dropped against fellow currencies probably due to fear that the Brussels explosions may hasten a likely British exit from the European Union.

"Terrorism has now become the biggest common enemy of humanity.

"Dr. Anwar bin Mohammed Gargash, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, has rightly reiterated the UAE’s determined stance and rejection of all forms of violence and terrorism, which targets all races and religions indiscriminately. As he pointed out, there is a need for concerted efforts by the international community to work at eradicating all forms of terrorism.

"Brussels itself is a shining example of a city that embraces multi-culturalism and openness. Targeting such a liberal society is tantamount to terrorists throwing a challenge at all peace-loving people on earth.

"The global expressions of support to the Brussels victims send one strong message to the perpetrators of such evil: 'Terrorism will never win.' Period," concluded the Sharjah-based daily.