Vice President Joe Biden denounced the “evil” attack by Hamas militants on Jerusalem on Wednesday, saying that Americans are being held hostage by the group’s actions.
“This is an evil and unprovoked attack by Hamas against a world-historic city,” Biden said in a statement. “We stand in solidarity with Israel and its people against these cowardly actions. We are particularly deeply concerned about the terrible toll of the attack on innocent lives, including those of the Americans being held hostage by this attack.”
Biden said that the U.S. “will continue to work with our allies and partners — in the region and beyond — to coordinate an effective response and ensure that Hamas is held accountable for its actions.”
He also urged all parties involved to “work together to defuse the situation, protect innocent civilians, and resume ongoing negotiations to bring about a lasting peace.”