Arab and European nations condemned the killing of the sheik.

A large number of pro-life leaders and groups condemned the killing.

The armed forces "categorically" denied responsibility and, late today, condemned the killing.

Most condemn the killing, which they attribute to the Mahdi militia.

Groups across the political spectrum condemned the killing, which is believed to have been sectarian.

The British Foreign Office has condemned the killing of civilians.

Hamas condemned the killing and said it had made two arrests.

Indonesia condemned the killing, calling it an act of terror that would hinder political reconciliation among the Lebanese.

"We specifically condemn the killing of innocent people on both sides," she said.

Foreign governments, including the White House, strongly condemned the killing.