Presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton expressed her “unwavering support” of Israel’s right to defend itself in the wake of the horrific shooting attack that claimed other lives of four Israelis at a popular shopping and restaurant area in Tel Aviv on Wednesday.
Security footage showed two Palestinians from a village near the city of Hebron, dressed in suit and tie and posing as customers at a restaurant, suddenly pull out automatic weapons and open fire, shooting one man point blank, as other diners fled. Four people were killed and six were wounded.
“I condemn the heinous terrorist attack in Tel Aviv today. I send my deepest condolences to the families of those killed and I will continue to pray for the wounded,” Clinton said in a statement released by her campaign. “I stand in solidarity with the Israeli people in the face of these ongoing threats, and in unwavering support of the country’s right to defend itself.”
“Israel’s security must remain non-negotiable,” Clinton added.
The U.S. State Department condemned the terrorist attack “in the strongest possible terms.”
These cowardly attacks against innocent civilians can never be justified. We are in touch with Israeli authorities to express our support and concern,” deputy spokesman Mark Toner said in a statement.
Reuters contributed to this report
