J Street condemns today’s utterly horrifying terror attack on a synagogue in Jerusalem’s Neve Yaakov neighborhood, in which according to initial reports at least seven Israelis were shot and killed, and several more wounded. Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of the victims, as well as with the entire Israeli people as they mourn this attack.

The targeting of a synagogue on Shabbat is despicable and deeply painful for Israelis and Jewish people around the world – even more so as it comes on International Holocaust Remembrance Day. Acts of terror and violence against civilians are never acceptable, and only lead to more pain, suffering and loss.

As we noted in a statement just earlier today, we are deeply concerned by the rapidly deteriorating security situation in Israel and the occupied Palestinian Territory over the past few days. Urgent steps must be taken by all responsible leaders to prevent further attacks and violence, and reduce tensions. As Secretary Blinken is scheduled to visit the region next week, we urge firm and proactive US leadership to help prevent any further escalation in violence.