Abdullah Al-Saud

WASHINGTON — Saudi Arabia condemned the terrorist attack in Orlando, which claimed 49 lives at a gay club.

Saudi Ambassador to the U.S. Abdullah Al-Saud said the kingdom sends its deepest condolences to the families of the victims.

“We stand with the American people at this tragic time,” he said. “We pray for the recovery and the healing of all those injured in the attack, and we will continue our work with the United States and our partners in the international community for an end to these senseless acts of violence and terror.”

Human Rights Watch slammed the Saudi statement as “hypocritical.” Homosexuality is a crime that can be punished by death in Saudi Arabia. Iran, which also criminalizes homosexuality, condemned the attack as well. 

LGBT people can get the death penalty in Yemen, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE, Mauritania and Iran.