We express our horror at the terrorist atrocities carried out by Hamas and other Palestinian extremists in Israel and our solidarity with the victims (including the hostages) and their families. There can be no justification for these appalling acts, which are completely inexcusable in their own terms, and have caused an escalation of the conflict, further substantial loss of life and further set back hopes of a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
We also express our solidarity with the innocent victims in the Gaza Strip and call on Israel to act within the parameters of international law and respect and endeavor to protect civilian life as it takes steps to defend itself against Hamas and other aggressors in Gaza.
