Pakistan flags fly half-mast to honor NZ terror victims

By Islamuddin Sajid

ISLAMABAD, Pakistan (AA) - Pakistan's flags were flying at half-mast across the country Monday to honor the victims of Friday's twin terror attacks in New Zealand.

"The government and the people of Pakistan stand united and extend solidarity to the grieved families who lost their loved ones in New Zealand terror attacks," Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Pakistan's foreign minister, said.

At least nine Pakistani nationals were among the victims from the attacks on Al Noor and Linwood mosques that killed at least 50 worshippers during Friday prayers.

On Sunday, Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan honored Pakistani national Naeem Rashid, 51, who was shot at Al Noor mosque while trying to stop the gunman.

"Pakistan is proud of Mian Naeem Rashid who was martyred trying to tackle the white supremacist terrorist and his courage will be recognized with a national award," Khan tweeted.