The leaders of Northern Ireland's main political parties have issued a joint statement to strongly condemn the horrific assault that took place in North Belfast on Monday night.

In their collective statement, the party leaders emphasized that there is no place for such brutality within society. They extended their immediate thoughts to the victim and his family, expressing hope for a full and complete recovery, while also acknowledging the eyewitnesses and the courageous members of the public who intervened at the scene. Recognising the fear and distress the incident has brought to the local area, the political leaders have urged people to refrain from sharing deeply disturbing videos or images of the attack, warning that the graphic nature of the footage risks re-traumatising those involved.

The statement voiced full support for the Police Service of Northern Ireland's ongoing investigation, stressing that the facts must be established through proper investigation and due process. The leaders urged anyone holding relevant footage or information to assist detectives with their inquiries.

Concluding the joint message, the party leaders affirmed their commitment to preventing violence and hatred from dividing communities, calling for calm to allow justice to take its course.