This week, a wave of violent terrorist attacks struck the State of Israel —in Petah Tikva, Jerusalem and Jaffa—leaving more than ten Israelis injured and Taylor Force, a 29-year-old American tourist, dead. Following media reports, we condemn the attacks in the strongest possible terms, mourn the loss of an American life and call for an end to this brutal wave of violence.

Jewish Federations of North America board chairman Richard Sandler said:

“We are both heartbroken and deeply troubled by the latest wave of terror in Israel today, with three separate incidents across the country leaving many injured and the senseless murder of an innocent American tourist. We remain horrified by and condemn in the strongest terms these barbarous acts of violence and the incitement that encourages them. We hope that the ongoing visit of United States Vice President Joe Biden will help serve as a calming force in the region during this difficult time.

“There is no possible justification for the shedding of innocent blood, and we continue to stand in solidarity with the people of the State of Israel who continue to live under the constant threat of terror. May the family of the young American tourist be comforted among the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem, and we continue to pray for all who were wounded in these senseless attacks."

We strongly condemn this terrible violence, and pray for those affected.

We pray for Israel. We pray for peace.