BICOM

Israeli leaders have expressed their shock at yesterday’s terror attack in Westminster and declared solidarity with those affected and the British people.

Israel’s President Reuven Rivlin said via social media: “Our thoughts are with the people of London. Terror is a threat to us all and we must stand united against it.”

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was flying back to Israel from an official visit to China and did not therefore issue an immediate statement.

However, Deputy Foreign Minister Tzipi Hotovely responded, saying in a statement: “Israel expresses its deep shock at the terror attack in London today and its solidarity with the victims and with the people and government of Great Britain. Terror is terror wherever it occurs and we will fight it relentlessly.”

Opposition leader Isaac Herzog, Head of the Zionist Union, also expressed his condolences, saying: “My thoughts are with the British people, following the terrible events at Westminster today. I wish a speedy recovery to all those injured.”

His Zionist Union colleague and former-Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni, commented via Twitter: “Our hearts are with the British today. Stand strong. The free world will defeat terrorism.”

Other MKs also published messages of support. Kulanu MK and former-Ambassador to the US Michael Oren said: “My thoughts and sympathy are with London and the victims and their families… Israel stands with you in fighting terror and defending freedom.”

Likud MK Sharren Haskel commented: “We must not lose hope nor give in to demands of those who seek to destroy all that is dear to us such as democracy, liberties, freedom of religion and tolerance.”

Israel’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon expressed his support to UK counterpart Matthew Rycroft, saying: “Israel stands as one with the British people as we all work together to defeat the scourge of terrorism.”

Meanwhile, the Tel Aviv municipality building was illuminated with a Union Jack in a show of support. Tel Aviv Mayor Ron Huldai expressed “solidarity with the city of London and my colleague [London Mayor] Sadiq Khan”.