Local Officials Respond To Attack On Israel

Elected officials and lawmakers from the area have spoken out following an attack by Hamas against Israel over the weekend.

Hundreds have been killed in Israel and Gaza, and Hamas continues to hold an unknown number of Israeli hostages who were kidnapped during the violent attack that took place in multiple cities.

Gov. Josh Shapiro, a Democrat:

“I condemn the horrific acts of war in Israel by Hamas and their enablers. These attacks on innocent Israeli civilians are abhorrent and warrant world condemnation and outrage. Our family has shared many special moments in Israel and our hearts break for those living this horror now. We stand in solidarity against terror and are praying for all people in Israel.”

U.S. Sen. Bob Casey, a Democrat:

“Hamas has launched a coordinated terrorist attack against Israel, starting with thousands of rockets fired upon innocent Israelis and continued violence throughout the day. The United States must stand with Israel and its right to self-defense.

“This is a tragic day. Hundreds are already dead and countless Israeli and Palestinian civilians are at risk because of this needless slaughter.”

U.S. Sen. John Fetterman, a Democrat:

“We now know this was a wide-scale, premeditated, cowardly, terrorist campaign against Israeli civilians that also claimed the lives of American citizens. 

“I unequivocally support any necessary military, intelligence, and humanitarian aid to Israel. The United States has a moral obligation to be in lockstep with our ally as they confront this threat. 

“I also fully support Israel neutralizing the terrorists responsible for this barbarism.”

Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick, a Republican:

“Horrific scenes of unprovoked attacks by Hamas terrorists on innocent Israeli civilians, including children.

“The United States will continue to stand with our friend and ally, and ensure that Israel has the resources to defend itself and defeat genocidal terrorists. I stand with Israel.”

The Democratic Jewish Legislative Caucus, which includes State Sen. Steve Santarsiero and State Rep. Tim Brennan Jewish Legislative Caucus:

“While our caucus embraces and celebrates diversity of culture, artistic expression, and freedom of speech, we are deeply disappointed to learn that the event includes speakers who have been clearly identified with antisemitic statements and tropes, such as Roger Waters, who recently dressed in a Nazi-like uniform at a concert and has made antisemitic statements in the past, Randa Abdel-Fattah, who recently called Israel ‘a demonic, sick project’ and said she ‘can’t wait for the day we commemorate its end,’ and others.

“The 10 days between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur – known as the Days of Awe – are some of the holiest days on the Jewish calendar and are marked by humility, self-reflection and the repairing and forging of bonds. It is a time in which the many Jewish students, educators, neighbors and others in the University of Pennsylvania community will seek peace, understanding and reconciliation with those around them.

“We support and encourage creating spaces for the discussion and celebration of Palestinian art, literature and culture. We simply believe that this celebration should not include individuals with a history of divisive, antisemitic rhetoric, which is antithetical to the mutual respect, understanding, and healing we all need to move forward.”