U.S. Rep. Mike Thompson Statement on the Violence in Israel and Palestinian Territories

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-5) today issued the following statement on the violence in Israel and the Palestinian Territories:

"I am saddened by the recent murders of Naftali Fraenkel, Gilad Shaer, Eyal Yifrach, and Mohamed Abu Khdeir. My heart goes out to their families. Those responsible for their murders should be brought to justice. The resumption of rocket fire into Israel from Gaza is very troubling, targeting major Israeli population centers, putting countless civilians at risk. At the same time, I urge the Israeli military to do everything in their power to avoid Palestinian civilian casualties. I have and will continue to support continued U.S. assistance to Israel, and the close relationship between our two governments and peoples, while at the same time supporting Israel's right to defend itself."