New Delhi: As the world grapples with the heart-wrenching tragedy of Air India Flight AI171’s crash in Ahmedabad, condolences have poured in from leaders, governments, and public figures across continents. The Royal Family of the United Kingdom expressed deep sorrow, with King Charles III and Queen Camilla releasing a statement calling the incident “appallingly tragic.” The King wrote, “My wife and I have been desperately shocked by the terrible events in Ahmedabad this morning. Our special prayers and deepest possible sympathy are with the families and friends of all those affected across so many nations.”

The monarch also acknowledged the courage and dedication of the rescue and emergency teams working at the crash site. Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed solidarity, highlighting the international magnitude of the tragedy, as the passengers included nationals from several countries.

“Horrible news of a passenger plane crash in India,” Zelensky posted. “Our thoughts are with all victims' relatives in India, the UK, Portugal, and Canada. We share your shock and grief and hope for as many lives to be saved as possible.” Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese echoed similar sentiments, calling the crash “absolutely devastating,” and confirmed that his government is closely monitoring developments.

The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, described the crash as “heartbreaking,” extending condolences to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the people of India, assuring, “Europe stands in solidarity with you in this moment of sorrow.” Beyond the realm of politics, the sports world also stood united in grief. Cricket icon Harbhajan Singh and Olympic medalist P. V. Sindhu expressed anguish over the loss of lives.

“Utterly shocked and deeply anguished,” Harbhajan posted, while Sindhu offered prayers for the 242 individuals aboard. BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla joined the chorus of tributes, urging compassion and collective support for grieving families. Meanwhile, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau confirmed that one Canadian citizen was aboard the flight and stated he was being regularly updated on the situation. Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and Russian President Vladimir Putin also extended their condolences, standing in unity with India during this unprecedented national tragedy.