The horrendous terrorist incident that occurred in Jerusalem on Friday evening and resulted in the deaths of at least seven worshippers has been condemned in the strongest possible terms by Australia.
“Terrorism and other violence directed at civilians can never be tolerated or excused. It seems unfathomable that such a vicious and heartless attack could occur on the same day that we commemorate the crimes committed during the Holocaust”, said Senator Penny Wong, the Australian minister for foreign affairs.
“Our prayers are with the family, friends, and Jewish community members of those murdered. The growing violence in Israel and the Palestinian Territories is a major concern for our organization. We urge all parties involved to exhibit prudence and desist from taking any measures that could endanger civilians. Both Israelis and Palestinians have a right to a life free from fear and violence”, she added.
In terrorist assaults in Jerusalem’s Neve Ya’akov neighbourhood and near the City of David, at least seven individuals were shot and killed, while five others were injured. A little over 12 hours separated the two shooting incidents that took place in east Jerusalem, with one terrorist being killed and another one wounded.
The announcement made by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that police forces would be reinforced around the city on Saturday morning left the town in a state of shock. This announcement came in advance of a security cabinet meeting on Saturday evening.
