Blumenthal Statement On West Bank Kidnapping

(Hartford, CT) – Today, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) released the following statement on the kidnapping of three Israeli teenagers in the West Bank:

“I strongly condemn the kidnapping of three Israeli teenagers, one of whom is also an American citizen, and support Israel’s ongoing efforts to return these boys safely to their families. Hamas is a terrorist organization known for its violent indiscriminate attacks on innocent civilians and use of kidnapping as a means of intimidation and coercion against Israel. This tragic kidnapping makes painfully evident the real harm to our efforts towards peace done by the Palestinians recent inclusion of Hamas in a unity government.  I appreciate Secretary Kerry’s statement condemning this despicable terrorist act and urge him to continue to work closely with his Israeli counterparts as the rescue operation continues.  

“Many Connecticut constituents have voiced their concerns for the kidnapped students and are rallying together through the Yellow Ribbons for Our Boys campaign. I hope our efforts, joined with so many others across America and the world, will let Israel know that it does not stand alone as it seeks the release of Gilad, Naftali and Eyal.”