King Charles has issued a deeply emotional statement to mark the 20th anniversary of the London 7/7 bombings, expressing his profound sorrow for the 52 innocent victims who lost their lives in the coordinated terror attacks.
In a message released on Monday morning, the monarch said his “heartfelt thoughts and special prayers remain with all those whose lives were forever changed on that terrible Summer’s day.”
The attacks saw four suicide bombers target London’s transport network during the morning rush hour, detonating devices on three Underground trains and a bus in Tavistock Square.
“We remember with profound sadness the 52 innocent people who were killed in senseless acts of evil – and the enduring grief of their loved ones,” the King stated.
King Charles has issued a poignant statement to mark the anniversary of London’s 7/7 attacks
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The King acknowledged the lasting impact on survivors, stating: “We recall, too, the hundreds more who carry physical and psychological scars, and pray that their suffering may ease as the years pass.”
He paid particular tribute to those who responded to the crisis with extraordinary bravery.
“In doing so, we should also remember the countless stories of extraordinary courage and compassion that emerged from the darkness of that day,” Charles said.
“The selfless bravery of our emergency services, transport workers, and fellow citizens who rushed towards danger to help strangers reminds us of the very best of humanity in the face of the very worst.”
20 years ago, 52 people lost their lives in a series of bombings in the nation’s capital
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The monarch emphasised how communities rallied together in the aftermath of the tragedy.
Commemorative events are taking place across the capital to honour the victims, with senior members of the Royal Family participating in memorial services.
The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh will attend the National Service of Commemoration at St Paul’s Cathedral at 11.30am on behalf of the King.
Survivors and families of those who died have gathered at Hyde Park’s July 7 Memorial, which features 52 stainless steel columns representing each victim.
The King paid tribute to the heroic efforts of the emergency services in his emotional message
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The memorial events come as the King continues to carry out limited royal duties whilst undergoing cancer treatment.
Despite his ongoing health challenges, His Majesty has remained committed to national moments of reflection, maintaining his role as a unifying figure for the nation during this significant anniversary.
The King stressed the importance of unity in healing the nation, stating: “While the horrors will never be forgotten, we may take comfort from the way such events rally communities together in solidarity, solace and determination.”
“It is this spirit of unity that has helped London, and our nation, to heal,” he added.
The King insisted that the the horrors of that day ‘will never be forgotten’ along with a positive vision for the future
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Charles called for renewed commitment to building an inclusive society, urging the public to use the anniversary as a moment of reflection.
“Let us therefore use this 20th anniversary to reaffirm our commitment to building a society where people of all faiths and backgrounds can live together with mutual respect and understanding, always standing firm against those who would seek to divide us,” the King said.
The emotional address with sighed off with a simple: “Charles R.”