Secretary Powell Condemns Terrorist Bombings in Jerusalem

Following is a December 1 statement issued by Secretary of State Colin Powell:

U.S. Department of State
Office of the Spokesman
December 1, 2001
Statement by Secretary of State Colin L. Powell

Bombings in Jerusalem

The United States condemns in the strongest possible terms the evil and horrific terrorist attacks in Jerusalem tonight. I want to express my deepest sympathies to the families of those killed in these vicious attacks and extend my wishes and prayers to those injured and their families. I extend my condolences to Prime Minister Sharon and to the Israeli people and reiterate our steadfast support for Israel against terrorism.

I have spoken with Chairman Arafat and have made absolutely clear that these despicable and cowardly actions must be brought to an end through immediate, comprehensive, and sustained action by the Palestinian Authority against both the individuals responsible and the infrastructure of the groups that support them. There can be no excuse for failure to take immediate and thorough action against the perpetrators of these vile acts.

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