Washington: U.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday expressed condolences following what he described as a “dangerous attack” in Sydney, saying the United States was saddened and grieved by the loss of lives.

In an address from Washington, Trump said he was praying for the speedy recovery of those injured and stressed that “the American nation stands united against terrorism.”

During the same remarks, the president made a series of sweeping statements on U.S. foreign policy and global security. Trump claimed that the United States had “destroyed Iran’s nuclear program” and asserted that peace had been established in the Middle East under his leadership.

Talking about Gaza situation he stated that an agreement had been reached to disarm Hamas, adding that the group had handed over Israeli prisoners as well as the bodies of those killed. According to Trump, 59 countries have expressed interest in joining what he called an “international stability force.”

Turning to domestic politics, Trump alleged that “anti-Jewish lobbies” were active in the U.S. Congress and claimed that support for Israel had declined within the United States.

The White House did not immediately provide additional details or evidence to support several of the claims made during the address.

On the other side Police officials stated that investigations into the incident are ongoing, with authorities reviewing CCTV camera footage from the surrounding area to establish the sequence of events and identify those responsible.

Eight people injured in the beach attack are currently receiving treatment in hospital, Mayor Providence said during a joint press conference with police and city administrators. Of those hospitalised, the condition of five victims is reported to be critical.

Mayor Providence assured the public that police remain on high alert following the attack. However, he emphasized that there is currently no major threat to public safety in the area.