The United States condemns in the strongest possible terms the outrageous terrorist attacks in Israel and Jerusalem, which tragically took the life of American Taylor Allen Force and left many others severely injured. Mr. Force, a U.S. veteran who had served tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan, was stabbed by a Palestinian on the Jaffa boardwalk by the Mediterranean.
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U.S. Condemns Terrorist Attacks in Israel
The last five months have seen a spate of Palestinian attacks on Israeli civilians and security forces. These attacks have consisted mainly of stabbings, but also shootings and car-rammings.
On a recent visit to Israel, Vice President Joe Biden denounced those in the international community and in the Palestinian Authority who have failed to condemn Palestinian terrorist attacks against Israel. “Let me say in no uncertain terms, the U.S. condemns these acts and condemns the failure to condemn these acts.” He also said “the rhetoric that incites that violence, the retribution that it generates, has to stop.”
Such violence, “cannot be accepted,” said Vice President Biden. “This cannot be viewed by civilized leaders as an appropriate way to behave. It is just not tolerable in the 21st century.”
“[Palestinian terrorists], are targeting innocent civilians, mothers, pregnant women, grandfathers and American citizens,” said Vice President Biden. “There can be no justification for this violence. The U.S. stands firmly behind Israel’s right to defend itself,” said Vice President Biden.
U.S. State Department Spokesperson John Kirby said, “We continue to encourage all parties to take affirmative steps to reduce tensions and restore calm.”