By Mbono Mdluli
MBABANE – His Majesty King Mswati III has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of 15 lives in New Orleans, USA, on New Year’s Day.
Speaking through Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini, the King conveyed his trust in God’s ability to bring solace to outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden, his administration, and the American people during this time of mourning.
“The Government of the Kingdom of Eswatini extends its heartfelt condolences to the U.S. Government and the American people following the devastating vehicular attack in New Orleans,” said Dlamini. “The loss of 15 innocent lives serves as a stark reminder of life’s fragility and the tragic consequences of senseless violence.”
On behalf of His Majesty King Mswati III, Her Majesty the Queen Mother, the Government, and the People of Eswatini, the Prime Minister expressed solidarity with the United States.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families and friends of those who lost their lives, the injured survivors, and the brave first responders who rushed to the scene. Their courage and dedication in the face of such adversity are truly commendable,” Dlamini added.
The incident occurred at approximately 3:15 a.m. CST on January 1, 2025, during New Year’s celebrations in New Orleans. A man drove a pickup truck into a crowd on Bourbon Street before engaging in a shootout with police. The attacker was fatally shot.
According to online sources, 15 people, including the perpetrator, were killed, and over 35 others, including two police officers, were injured. The attack coincided with preparations for the city’s Sugar Bowl college football game later that day.
The FBI identified the assailant as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a Houston resident and convert to Islam. Authorities reported finding an Islamic State (IS) flag in the suspect’s vehicle, and the attack is being treated as an act of terrorism.
While initial investigations explored a potential link between the New Orleans attack and a vehicle explosion at Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas, the FBI later stated no definitive connection had been found.
