AJC Welcomes U.S., European Condemnations of Tel Aviv Bus Bombing

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Nov 21, 2012, 11:29 ET

NEW YORK, Nov. 21, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- AJC welcomed the strong American, British and French condemnations of today's bombing of a bus in central Tel Aviv. At least 23 people were injured in the attack, which the terrorist group Hamas praised. It was the first terror bombing in Tel Aviv since 2006.

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"We are reminded once again of the evil nature of Israel's enemies," said AJC Executive Director David Harris. "Today's bus bombing in Tel Aviv fulfills a Hamas vow to resume such attacks inside Israel. It is another dangerous escalation of the current Hamas-instigated conflict, which further belies any professed interest by the Gaza regime in a cease-fire. We pray for the full recovery of the wounded, and count on Israel to respond as it deems necessary to this brazen assault."

President Barack Obama condemned the bus attack in the strongest possible terms. "These attacks against innocent Israeli civilians are outrageous. The United States will stand with our Israeli allies, and provide whatever assistance is necessary to identify and bring to justice the perpetrators of this attack. The United States reaffirms our unshakeable commitment to Israel's security, and our deep friendship and solidarity with the Israeli people."

French President Francois Hollande condemned "in the strongest possible terms" the attack, and expressed "solidarity with the people and government of Israel." He stressed that "terrorism, which can never be justified, must be fought with vigor."

British Foreign Minister William Hague said that "terrorists must not be allowed to set the agenda."

U.S. Secretary of State Clinton is in the region seeking a durable cease-fire. She met yesterday in Israel with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and reaffirmed that "America's commitment to Israel's security is rock solid and unwavering." She also met with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas in Ramallah, and today is in Cairo to meet with Egyptian President Morsi.

SOURCE American Jewish Committee