Biden criticizes the “savage” attack on Salman Rushdie

13 (EUROPE PRESS)

The president of the United States, Joe Biden, has criticized this Saturday the “savage” attack against the British writer Salman Rushdie, who is hospitalized after being stabbed during an act on Friday in New York.

“Jill and I are shocked and saddened to learn of yesterday’s savage attack in New York on Salman Rushdie,” Biden said in an official White House statement.

“We and all Americans and the rest of the world pray for his health and his recovery,” he said, while thanking the work of the emergency services and the “brave who jumped to help Rushdie and subdue the attacker “.

In addition, Biden has highlighted Rushdie’s “vision of humanity” and his “unparalleled sense of history,” “his refusal to be intimidated or silenced.”

“Truth, courage, resilience. The ability to share ideas without fear. These are the foundations of any open society,” he stressed. “Today we reaffirm our commitment to these deeply American values ​​in solidarity with Rushdie and all who defend free speech,” she said.

The High Representative for Foreign and Security Policy of the EU, Josep Borrell, has also referred to this attack and has “strongly condemned” this action. Borrell has wished him a speedy recovery.

“International rejection of this type of criminal action that violates fundamental rights and freedoms is the only path to a better and more peaceful world,” added Borrell.

Rushdie, 75, is now intubated and in serious danger of losing an eye after being stabbed by the assailant, identified as Hadi Matar, 24, of Fairview, New Jersey.

The Chautauqua County District Attorney’s Office in New York has charged Matar with second-degree assault and second-degree attempted murder charges.