Hoyer Statement on the Murder of Four Individuals in a Jerusalem Synagogue

WASHINGTON, DC - House Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement today condemning the murder of four individuals, including three Americans, in an attack on a Jerusalem synagogue:  

"Today's deadly attack on worshippers in a synagogue in Jerusalem was a heinous and vile act. The four individuals who were murdered - among them three Americans - were at prayer in a house of worship, a place that should have been a sanctuary from the horrors of violence and terror.  There can never be justification for the murder of innocents.

"Israelis deserve the chance to live in peace and security. The perpetrators of today's attack have not advanced any cause other than to strengthen the resolve of Israelis to defend their sovereignty and seek a just peace - and of Americans to stand shoulder to shoulder with our ally Israel.  

“Let us not forget that the victims of this attack, in their final moments, uttered these words from the morning prayers: 'Grant peace from on high, the one who will bestow peace on us and all of Israel.'"