Pakistani Taliban fighters killed 141 people, 132 of which were children, at a school in Peshawar, Pakistan. The BBC reports that 7 militants attacked the school wearing suicide vests.

As parents search for their children, hospitals in the area are dealing with the large number of deaths and casualties.

The school is run by the army and thus was the target of the Taliban’s attack as retaliation for the governments offensive in North Waziristan and Khyber area.

The Pakistani special forces fought the militants in the school to end the siege and prevent the explosives from going off. The Guardian reports that no demands were made by the militants.

Reactions

United States President Barack Obama:

By targeting students and teachers in this heinous attack, terrorists have once again shown their depravity. We stand with the people of Pakistan, and reiterate the commitment of the United States to support the government of Pakistan in its efforts to combat terrorism and extremism and to promote peace and stability in the region.

United Nations Secretary Ban Ki-moon:

No cause can justify such brutality; no grievance can excuse such horror. It is an act of horror and rank cowardice to attack defenceless children while they learn.

Indian Prime Minster Narendra Modi:

In the wake of dastardly attack in Pakistan, I appeal to schools across India to observe 2 mins of silence tomorrow as a mark of solidarity.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 16, 2014

Malala:

Conclusion

Please join us in keeping these children in your thoughts and prayers after this attack humanity. Dealing with terrorism is an important issue for all countries, and Pakistan in particular has recently had its hands full.

Indians who are quick to judge the Pakistan as being in support of “Islamic” terrorists should particularly pay attention here: These terrorists are not representative of the whole Muslim population. In fact, the majority of the Muslim population condemns their actions, as this type of violence is not beneficial to anyone. Pakistan has lost lives today, and instead of pointing figures, it is important to stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters up North, as we work together to create a safe region for our children.