WASHINGTON, DC – Below is a statement from U.S. Senator Gary Peters on the recent violence taking place in Israel:
“The violence in Israel over the past weeks is absolutely terrifying, and the United States and the world community cannot stand by as the people of the State of Israel are subjected to these horrific attacks. Palestinian leaders, especially President Abbas, have a moral responsibility to speak out against these brutal attacks. My condolences go out to the victims and their families, and I encourage all sides to act deliberatively to maintain calm.
“Additionally, I urge Secretary Kerry to use his upcoming trip to make clear to Palestinian leaders that the United States condemns these attacks, and help reinforce that the Temple Mount status quo has not changed. I hope that Secretary Kerry can work with Prime Minister Netanyahu and President Abbas to restart negotiations without preconditions to help spread confidence among both Israelis and Palestinians that more peaceful and prosperous days lay ahead.”
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