A day after advocating for a ban on Muslim immigration to Australia, television presenter Sonia Kruger has conceded her statement may have been extreme.
Ms Kruger said Muslim immigration should be stopped for the safety of Australians during Channel Nine's Today Extra show on Monday, prompting a backlash on social media.
On Tuesday, Ms Kruger was emotional as she attempted to justify her comments, but did not withdraw them.
"We've witnessed too many atrocities in the name of terrorism and last week's attack on innocent men, women and children in Nice left me in utter disbelief," Ms Kruger said.
"The thought that it could happen here terrifies me.
"This type of attack affects people from all walks of life and I want to make it very clear that I have complete respect for people of all races and religions... I acknowledge my views yesterday may have been extreme."
Australia's Race Discrimination Commissioner Tim Soutphommasane was among many who denounced Ms Kruger's comments on social media.
"This stereotyping of Muslims does nothing but breed hate..." Mr Soutphommasane tweeted on Monday.
