World's Reaction: Sympathy and gun control.

This story broke in the AP just a little under the 24 hour mark. The world leaders reacting to the shooting.

Most expressed shock at the shooting but few said they were surprised - criticizing the availability of guns in the U.S., lax gun controls and the number of Americans who cling to the constitutional right that allows them to bear arms.

"The Queen was shocked and saddened to hear of the news of the shooting in Virginia," Buckingham Palace said. Queen Elizabeth and her husband, Prince Philip, are scheduled to visit Virginia May 3-4.

British Home Office Minister, Tony McNulty, earned a masters degree in political science at Virginia Tech in 1982.

"I think if this does prompt a serious and reflective debate on gun issues and gun law in the states then some good may come from this woeful tragedy," McNulty said.

Oddly enough the least political article comes from Tehran, Iran. The statement was made this morning, circulated by Iran's foreign ministry spokesman. Or maybe it's slanted in that they're trying to win back some favor after the big sailor fiasco and other such nonsense.

"Attacking innocent people, irrespective of their race and nationality, is contrary to divine and human values no matter which group or person carries out such an act under any name," the Iranian statement said.