The House-Knesset Parliamentary Friendship Group, chaired by Tennessee U.S. Representative David Kustoff (R-TN-08), released a statement this week in response to Hamas’ attack on Israel over the Yom Kippur holiday weekend.
As Chairman of the House-Knesset Parliamentary Friendship Group, I joined Ranking Member @RepDeanPhillips, and all members, to release the following statement in response to the horrific terrorist attack by Hamas on Israel: pic.twitter.com/Xw8DOQRWqK
— Rep. David Kustoff (@RepDavidKustoff) October 10, 2023
“We strongly condemn the brutal, barbaric terrorist attack committed by Hamas, an Iranian-backed terrorist organization, on Israel,” the group said in a statement. “As of now, these terrorists have reportedly wounded thousands, killed over 1,000 Israelis, and have taken at least 150 people as hostages, including women, children, and the elderly. Through their despicable acts of terror, Hamas has chosen to put innocent lives on all sides in danger and placed its desire for violence over the prospect for peace.
“As members of the bipartisan House-Knesset Parliamentary Friendship Group, we unequivocally stand united with our ally, Israel, her people, and our friends in the Knesset during this tumultuous time,” the lawmakers added.
“Let there be no mistake: The United States’ commitment to Israel’s security is ironclad. We must continue to support the State of Israel’s right to defend herself against Hamas and other terrorists’ heinous aggression, including by providing additional assistance as requested. As we mark this time of deep sorrow and sadness, our commitment to the U.S.-Israel relationship is steadfast and unwavering,” the group’s statement said.
The House-Knesset Parliamentary Friendship Group was formed by former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-CA-20) in July following a bipartisan congressional delegation trip to Israel earlier this year.
During a White House press briefing on Tuesday, National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan confirmed 14 Americans are among the more than 1,000 dead in Israel.
“More than a thousand men, women, and children were slaughtered in their homes, on their streets, in desert fields — and among them, at least 14 Americans. We mourn for all their lives, and we’re actively working with Israelis to determine the whereabouts of the missing, including missing American citizens,” Sullivan said.
The White House also said Tuesday it believes there are currently 20 or more unaccounted for Americans in Israel.
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Kaitlin Housler is a reporter at The Tennessee Star and The Star News Network. Follow Kaitlin on X / Twitter.
