Statement from the Jewish Community Relations Council of New York on the Terrorist Attack in Tel Aviv

We are horrified by the brutal terrorist attack that took place in the Max Brenner restaurant in Tel Aviv’s popular Sarona Market, which left four Israelis killed and at least three badly injured. Just days after New York’s annual Celebrate Israel Parade, our community has once again transformed cheers into tears for our slain and wounded brothers and sisters in Israel. At this time our thoughts are with the families of the victims and our prayers are for a full and speedy recovery for the wounded.

We condemn the praise announced by Hamas, the Iran-backed terrorist organization, for this heinous attack by two 21 year-old Palestinian gunmen. It is unconscionable that Hamas continues to encourage and incite to violence and murder against innocent Israeli civilians, especially during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. We are further saddened that celebrations broke out in the West Bank and Gaza in the aftermath of the deadly shooting. We unequivocally condemn this attack and support the right of Israelis to self-defense.

The ongoing terrorism long waged by Palestinian attackers against innocent Israeli women, men and children is morally intolerable and unjustifiable. Since September 13th, 2015, 28 Israelis and 2 Americans have been killed in terrorist attacks and over 400 people injured in more than 200 separate stabbing, car ramming, bombing, and shooting attacks.

It is time for the international community to stop turning a blind eye to Palestinian terrorism and recognize that the murder of civilians is depraved no matter if it occurs in Paris, Madrid, Brussels, or Tel Aviv.

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Governor Andrew Cuomo

“Friends stand together in times of crisis. On behalf of all New Yorkers, I extend my deepest thoughts and prayers to those affected by today’s terrorist attack in Tel Aviv. We stand with the people of Israel.”

Mayor Bill de Blasio

“Our thoughts are with all the victims of the terrible attack at Sarona Market. NYC stands united with Tel Aviv and Israel, today and always.”

Senator Charles E. Schumer

“The deplorable violence in Tel Aviv must be met with categorical condemnation from all quarters and stern resolve to bring to justice the cowards who murdered these innocent individuals. My thoughts and prayers go out to those lost in the terrible shooting at Tel Aviv’s Sarona Market.”

Congress Member Charles Rangel

“My thoughts and prayers go out to the families of the four victims of the terrorist attack in Tel Aviv, Israel that occurred the night of June 9th. I strongly condemn the shooting of innocent civilians at a market place. Such egregious acts of violence cannot be condoned. As the search for the perpetrators continues, I join all the friends of Israel, both abroad and in my district, to stand in solidarity with the people of Israel as they remain strong in this moment of darkness. We must call upon the global community to defend Israel against future attacks and against the rise of global terrorism, now more than ever.”

Congressman Jerry Nadler

“The horrendous attack in central Tel Aviv that killed four people, and wounded several others, is yet another terrible tragedy and a devastating moment for everyone who seeks peace. It must be condemned forcefully by the entire international community, including the Palestinian leadership. This horrific event is another reminder of the terrorist threat Israelis face each and every day, even during a period of relative calm. The forces of hate who cheered this attack must be drowned out by all those who long for a lasting peace in the region. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families at this difficult time.”

Congress Member Lee Zeldin

“My thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families, and all Israelis in the wake of the deadly terrorist shooting in Tel Aviv. The hate and violence that is targeted at innocent Israelis is absolutely tragic. Violent terrorist attacks like this one do nothing but hinder any chance of peace in the Middle East. Israel is a strategic partner and democratic ally of the United States and America should stand strong shoulder to shoulder with Israel in response. As a nation, we must always do everything that we can to stop the violence and work towards a peaceful solution to bring peace to the Middle East. An attack on Israel is an attack on the United States.”

Congress Member Nydia Velazquez

“My thoughts and prayers are with those affected by this horrific act. We must continue working toward peace in this region and standing for Israel’s right to defend itself against unprovoked violence. In that regard, I recently met with the Deputy Special Envoy on Israel-Palestine Negotiations to discuss the U.S.’ role in protecting Israeli and American citizens. This most recent attack is a tragic reminder of the need to secure a safe and peaceful future for Israel and the Middle East.”

Congress Member Eliot Engel

“I am sickened by yesterday’s terrorist attack in Tel Aviv. My prayers are with the victims of this heinous attack and those who lost loved ones.

“Neither this violent attack nor any terrorist act will bring about a long-term, sustainable solution to this conflict. I urge the Administration to give the Israeli government and people everything they need to overcome this tragedy and find a more peaceful future.”

Congress Member Steve Israel

“I condemn yesterday’s cowardly attack against innocent civilians at a market in Tel Aviv, and send my deepest condolences to families of the victims. The people of Israel do not deserve to live in fear that violence can erupt at any time. The American people stand with Israelis during this difficult time and reaffirm our crucial commitment is to our friend and ally.”

Congresswoman Nita Lowey

“I deplore the loss of innocent life. There is no justification for such despicable aggression, and my thoughts and prayers are with the victims’ families. The United States will continue to stand with Israel and help our ally protect its citizens.”

Congress Member Representative Sean Patrick Maloney

“I am horrified to learn of the deadly terrorist attack which took the lives of three Israelis, and injured six others in Tel Aviv. For far too long we’ve heard the accounts of senseless terrorist attacks or violence against innocent Israelis. The use of violence against innocent people who are going about their daily lives is abhorrent and barbaric – as one of our strongest allies, Israel has our full support as they bring those responsible to swift justice.”

Congress Member Grace Meng

“I condemn the terrorist attack in Tel Aviv in the strongest possible terms and send my thoughts and prayers to all who have been impacted by this cowardly act. The world must strongly denounce this heinous violence, and this murder of innocent civilians. These horrific acts cannot be tolerated and all those responsible must face justice. The United States will always stand with our friend and ally Israel and we continue to do so during this very difficult time.”

Congress Member U.S. Rep. Yvette D. Clarke

“I am deeply saddened and appalled by Wednesday’s senseless and tragic terrorist attack in Tel Aviv. This deliberate attack is an outrageous affront to the values we all hold dear. The victims, their families, and the State of Israel are in my thoughts and prayers as they grieve through this senseless act of violence.”

Congress Member Hakeem Jeffries

“We must not tolerate any government that applauds and encourages the senseless slaughter of innocent civilians. This includes Palestinian elected leadership. America stands firmly with our close ally & friend, Israel, in the aftermath of the unspeakably heinous attack that took place this week in Tel Aviv. The resilience, restraint & respect for the rule of law of the Israeli people in the face of terror is to be applauded. My thoughts and prayers are with the recovering victims and the families of those impacted by this cowardly attack.”

NYC Public Advocate Letitia James

“I am deeply saddened by yesterday’s attack at the Sarona Market in Tel Aviv, Israel that left multiple Israelis dead and injured. This type of hateful violence should not be tolerated in any area of the world, against any group of people. Today and everyday, we stand together with our Israeli family. My thoughts and prayers are with those impacted by this horrible attack and all of Israel.”

“The despicable attack in Tel Aviv this week was yet another tragic result of hatred. My thoughts are with the friends and families of the victims, and with all who have been impacted by ongoing terrorism. Whether you live in New York City or Tel Aviv, every person has the right to feel safe and secure in their homes and communities. We stand united with Israel in denouncing this terrible act of violence.”

NYC Comptroller Scott M. Stringer

NYS Senator John Flanagan

“I stand firmly with the Jewish Community Relations Council of New York, the Jewish community and the nation of Israel in condemning this horrific act of terrorism committed against the Israeli people. The continued violence against the innocent citizens of one of our nation’s greatest allies must stop and those responsible must know they will be punished to the fullest extent of the law. My thoughts at this time are with the Israeli people and the families of those who were killed in this senseless attack.”

NYS Senator Michael Gianaris

“The recent horrific attack in Tel Aviv reminds us yet again that Israel is at the front lines of the battle against terror. My thoughts are with those impacted by these shootings. I strongly condemn this attack and stand with Israel during this difficult time.”

NYS Senator Daniel Squadron

“I extend my deepest sympathies to the victims of this senseless terror attack,” said State Senator Daniel Squadron. “New York stands with Israel in the ongoing fight against terrorism.”

NYS Senator Carl Marcellino

“First and foremost, my sympathy and prayers go out to the family and friends of those who lost there lives and were injured in yet another senseless and cowardly terrorist attack. Like all New Yorkers, I stand with our friends in Israel denouncing this violence and calling for swift justice for the assailants and their conspirators.”

NYS Senator Liz Krueger

“In the aftermath of yesterday’s terrible attack, I stand in solidarity with the people of Israel and I grieve for the families of those who lost their lives.”

NYS Senator Jack M. Martins

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of the Tel Aviv terrorist attack, their families and the Israeli people. Now more than ever, America must stand shoulder to shoulder with Israel in our joint fight against terror and ensure that the cowards who perpetrated this unprovoked attack receive the justice they deserve.”

NYS Assembly Assistant Speaker Felix W. Ortiz

“My lthoughts and prayers are with Israel and the families of the victims. I stand with Israel, deploring violence and hoping that peace will become a reality sooner than later.”

NYS Assemblyman Steven Cymbrowitz

“With this senseless tragedy we’re reminded once again of how fragile life is and what it means to live with this knowledge as a constant, daily part of your existence. Israel has lived with both the threat and reality of terrorism throughout the duration of her history, but it never becomes any less shocking or painful. I extend my deepest condolences to the families touched by this latest tragedy and, like our friends in Israel, I remain defiant in my belief that we must stand tall against violence and continue working toward a lasting peace.”

NYS Assembly Member Assemblyman Brian Curran

“My hearts and prayers go out to the families of the victims who were killed in the terror attacks in Tel- Aviv,Israel. Ido Ben Ari, Ilana Naveh, Michael Feige, Mila Misheiv were innocent civilians, and I mourn their loss together with their families, friends, and entire community, both in the United States and Israel. This was a savage attack, a senseless murder, and I stand with Israel, our only true friend in the Middle East, against terrorism of any kind.”

NYS Assembly Member Dov Hikind

“My heart aches for those families tragically affected by the terrorist shooting. The only way for us to overcome these incidents is to have continued faith and strength during these difficult times.”

NYS Assemblymember Shelley Mayer

“I condemn, in the strongest possible terms, the brutal attack in Tel Aviv that killed four and left at least three seriously injured. Those directly responsible and those who assisted in this violence must be held accountable. These acts of violence go to the heart of an open society, and they must be stopped.”

NYS Assembly Member Pamela Harris

“I strongly condemn the recent terror attacks in Tel Aviv and extend my deepest condolences to the victims, their families and anyone touched by these deplorable acts. During this difficult time, we must all stand in solidarity with the people of Israel and offer our friendship, sympathy and support.”

NYS Assembly Member Nily Rozic

“My heart is still in Tel Aviv as I think of the families who lost their loved ones. As the shared bonds between the people of New York and Israel grow stronger, united we remain hopeful for a better future.”

NYS Assembly Member Daniel O’Donnell

My heart breaks each and every time the international community suffers from an act of terror. As New Yorkers, we unfortunately understand the pain and grief inflicted all too well. Terrorism is not of any religion or state. It is born of ignorance and hatred. I stand in mourning and solidarity with all those who were impacted by the horrifying attacks in Tel Aviv this week.

NYS Assembly Member David Weprin

“There is never any justification for the murder of innocent civilians. My condolences and prayers are with those affected by this horrific terror attack in Tel Aviv.”

NYS Assembly Member Robert J. Rodriguez

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the citizens of Israel and the victims of Tuesday’s terrorist attack in Tel Aviv. I am sickened by this cowardly attack that only exacerbates the deep-seated conflicts in the region. While this act is truly abhorrent, we must all turn away from violence and the urge to retaliate. Only through acts of compassion can we hope to put an end to these actions and create a lasting peace.”

NYS Assemblyman Andrew Hevesi

“I condemn the attacks carried out Wednesday night in Tel Aviv. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims of this senseless act of violence, and with the whole nation of Israel.”

NYS Assembly Member Walter T. Mosely

“I wish to express my sorrow for the families who lost loved ones in yesterday’s attack in Tel Aviv. I fully back the efforts of the State of Israel to protect its citizens and continue to pray for those who were injured, as well as for peace within the region.”

NYS Assemblywoman Aravella Simotas

Yesterday’s senseless and horrific terrorist attack in the heart of Tel Aviv is the worst sort of hate. I stand with the people of Tel Aviv, the people of Israel and my colleagues in government around the world to condemn this brutality.

Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

“My thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of the victims of this disgusting terror attack in Tel Aviv. I join the countless people from throughout the world of all faiths in condemning this heinous act”

Queens Borough President Melinda Katz

“Wednesday’s terror attack in Tel Aviv was a vicious assault against people who were just going about their daily lives. The actions of the killers who perpetrated this attack should be condemned in the strongest possible terms. My thoughts and prayers go out to the families and friends of the four people who were killed and for a speedy recovery for those who were wounded.”

New York City Council Member Mark D. Levine, Chair of Council’s Jewish Caucus

“I condemn these despicable murders in the strongest possible terms. I send my deepest condolences for the families of the victims and offer my prayers for rfua shleima to the wounded. I stand firmly with the people of Israel as they confront the on-going threat of terror in their midst.”

New York City Council Member David G. Greenfield

“The terrorist attack perpetrated in Tel Aviv this week was the work of despicable cowards, a heinous act that no one in possession of a conscience could fail to condemn. Today I mourn the loss of Ido Ben Ari, Ilana Naveh, Michael Feige, and Mila Misheiv — the four innocent victims whose lives were cut short by this horrifying act of terror. They, along with those who were wounded in the attack, and all of their loved ones, are in my thoughts and prayers in this moment of tragedy.

In addition to grieving for those who were lost and tending to those who were wounded, we have a responsibility as well to be very clear about why this happened. The attack in Tel Aviv was not an isolated incident or an accident; it was not the work of an unhinged loner. It was the direct result of the longstanding, ongoing strategy of incitement by Hamas and the radical Islamists who make up much of the top leadership of the Palestinian Authority. Those parties bear as much blame for this attack as the terrorists who carried it out. The fact that they are now praising and celebrating the attack is genuinely sickening, and will no doubt encourage other morally bankrupt cowards to carry out similar acts in the future. In addition to robbing innocents of their lives, each terror attack incited by Hamas further damages the prospects for peace in the region. I stand firmly in support of Israel and its government as they fulfill their duty to hold the guilty parties responsible and assure the security of their people.”

New York City Council Member Mathieu Eugene

“My deepest sympathies go out to the victims of the Tel Aviv tragedy, and I am praying for all those who were impacted by this horrific violence. These atrocious attacks must be stopped, and we must come together to grieve with Tel Aviv over this senseless act of violence.”

New York City Council Member Rory I. Lancman

“The horrific attack perpetrated on innocent civilians in Tel Aviv shows the depravity of Israel’s enemies. The murdered and injured individuals were simply breaking bread with friends and family. The violence perpetrated against them is truly unconscionable.”

New York City Council Member Barry Grodenchik

“We will not be silent in the face of such wanton brutality. I call on all people of good will to denounce this wanton act of terror and stand with the people of Israel, our true ally in the Middle East. May the memories of those who were murdered be for a blessing now, and always, and may those perpetrated this despicable deed be brought to swift and sure justice.”

New York City Council Member Helen Rosenthal

These crimes can only be described as monstrous, and i condemn them unambiguously. I send my thoughts and prayers to the victims, their families, and all the people of Israel. Now more than ever I am proud to stand with them as they confront such evil acts.

New York City Council Member Dan Garodnick

“As a city that cherishes our diversity, we must strongly condemn these hateful acts of terror whenever and wherever they occur. In the face of this most recent shooting in Tel Aviv, we stand with the people of Israel and with the families of the victims.”

New York City Council Member Anthony Desposito

“Truly heinous news out of Israel over the past few hours. Violence is never the answer, especially when it comes to embracing our differences. I am absolutely disgusted and condemn this horrific terrorist act…as should all rational people.”

New York City Council Member Richie Torres

“I condemn this vicious terrorist attack in Tel Aviv and the recent acts of violence against Israeli citizens. They are senseless and barbaric. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims’ families, and with the Israeli people during this time of pain.”

New York City Council Member Corey Johnson

“I am horrified and saddened by this despicable act of terrorism. This is but another sad example of violence and barbarism being masqueraded as politics, and we in New York City will not stand for it. My heart is with the people of Israel and the loved ones of Ido Ben Ari, Mila Mishayev, Ilana Naveh, and Michael Feige, whose precious lives were cut short by a cowardly act of violence.”

New York City Council Member Stephen Levin

“The perpetrators of this brutal attack must be caught and brought to justice. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones affected by this horrific event.”

Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano

“Nassau County extends its deepest sympathies to the families and victims of Wednesday’s deadly terror attack in Tel Aviv. Israel is one of our nation’s greatest partners—a true friend and ally of America. The people of Nassau County stand in solidarity with the citizens of Israel.”

Hempstead Town Supervisor Anthony J. Santino