In a telegram of condolence to President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, Chancellor Angela Merkel wrote that she was appalled by the dreadful news of the murder of Egyptian hostages in Libya.

At the government press conference, spokesperson Steffen Seibert added, "The German government condemns this barbaric act of terrorism. Our deepest sympathy and sincere condolences go to the families of the victims and to the Egyptian people."

Steffen Seibert said, "This situation is a clear sign that this is a new, abhorrent act perpetrated by the terrorists." Once again, they have demonstrated that they are sadistic criminals and that the world must stand together against IS in the name of civilisation. Germany will do its bit in the fight against IS.

During his visit to Colombia, Federal Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier also condemned the "atrocity" in the strongest possible terms. He urged all Libyans to work to bring about peace in their country. All political forces are called on to play an active part in peace talks.
Only a political solution that has the support of all parties will make it possible to rebuild the Libyan state and destroy the seedbeds of terrorism.

On Sunday the terrorist organisation IS released a video purportedly showing the killing of a total of 21 hostages in Libya. The hostages were said to be Coptic Christians.