Rep. Payne, Jr.’s Statement on the Terrorist Attack on Israel

Washington, D.C. — Rep. Donald M. Payne, Jr. issued the following statement today regarding the terrorist attack on Israel.  In a surprise move, Hamas launched rockets at Israeli towns while Hamas militants invaded villages, shot Israeli civilians, and brought Israeli soldiers and civilians captured in the raid into Gaza.

“I am closely monitoring the situation in Israel with great concern.  Our commitment to Israel’s right to defend itself remains unwavering.  My heartfelt condolences go out to the families who have tragically lost their loved ones in this abhorrent attack on innocent civilians.  We must prioritize peace and work towards a future free from violence and terrorism.  I’m also very concerned about how Hamas has taken whole Israeli families hostage.  They are civilians.  This is absolutely unacceptable.”