US condemns 'cowardly' and 'horrific' terrorist attack in Tel Aviv

"The United States condemns today’s horrific terrorist attack in Tel Aviv in the strongest possible terms," the statement reads.

By MICHAEL WILNER
Updated: JUNE 9, 2016 01:02
Shooting attack at Tel Aviv's Sarona complex, June 8, 2016. (photo credit: ISRAEL POLICE)
Shooting attack at Tel Aviv's Sarona complex, June 8, 2016.
(photo credit: ISRAEL POLICE)
WASHINGTON -- The United States condemned an attack on a popular Tel Aviv market on Wednesday night as a "cowardly" and "horrific" act of terror.
A statement issued by the State Department said that US officials are in touch with Israeli authorities to express "support and concern."
"The United States condemns today’s horrific terrorist attack in Tel Aviv in the strongest possible terms," the statement reads. "We extend our deepest condolences to the families of those killed and our hopes for a quick recovery for those wounded. These cowardly attacks against innocent civilians can never be justified."
Three people were killed and several others wounded in a coordinated terrorist assault on Tel Aviv’s Sarona Market Wednesday evening, in one of the deadliest attacks in the city since Palestinian violence erupted last October.
Tel Aviv Police head Asst.-Ch. Moshe Edri called the shooting a “serious terrorist attack,” saying that two terrorists came to the market and opened fire randomly at civilians. Eyewitnesses said that the terrorists were disguised as religious Jews and wore kippot.
Edri said the police did not have warnings of a terrorist attack at the site. He said police have increased deployments in the city but that school would be open on Thursday and people can keep their normal routine, though he also implored the public to exercise caution and to report suspicious persons.
The two attackers were relatives from Yata in the South Hebron Hills and were said to be in their twenties. The Hebron area is a known Hamas stronghold.