Rep. Smith Statement on the Hostage Situation at Congregation Beth Israel in Colleyville, Texas
January 16, 2022
SEATTLE, WA - Representative Adam Smith (D-Wash.) today issued the following statement in response to the hostage situation that took place at a synagogue in the Dallas-Fort Worth area of Texas on Saturday.
"Nearly 12 hours after a gunman entered Congregation Beth Israel and took four people hostage during their morning service, the hostages were safely rescued and returned to their families. I extend my thoughts and support to the individuals who had to endure that traumatic experience in their place of worship. I would also like to thank the incredible state, local, and federal law enforcement agents - including the FBI negotiators - who resolved the situation and likely saved the lives of the individuals taken hostage yesterday.
"Yesterday's hostage situation is an unfortunate reminder of the antisemitism that persists in the United States and around the world, and the risk of attack that synagogues face. These attacks must be forcefully condemned as the targeted acts of hatred and violence that they are. In the face of this hatred, we must come together and stand in solidarity with the Jewish community in Texas and across the country."
"Nearly 12 hours after a gunman entered Congregation Beth Israel and took four people hostage during their morning service, the hostages were safely rescued and returned to their families. I extend my thoughts and support to the individuals who had to endure that traumatic experience in their place of worship. I would also like to thank the incredible state, local, and federal law enforcement agents - including the FBI negotiators - who resolved the situation and likely saved the lives of the individuals taken hostage yesterday.
"Yesterday's hostage situation is an unfortunate reminder of the antisemitism that persists in the United States and around the world, and the risk of attack that synagogues face. These attacks must be forcefully condemned as the targeted acts of hatred and violence that they are. In the face of this hatred, we must come together and stand in solidarity with the Jewish community in Texas and across the country."
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Issues:
Gun Violence Prevention