FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 16, 2014

Congressmen Harris, Lamborn, Jordan, and Franks Condemn Kidnapping of Three Israeli Teenagers
Call for Suspension of Aid for Palestinian Authority Until Teens Are Safely Returned

Washington, D.C. – Recently, three Israeli teenagers, one of whom is also an American citizen, were kidnapped by Hamas, a terrorist organization. Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas has chosen to form a unity government with Hamas. 

Congressmen Andy Harris, M.D. (MD-01), Doug Lamborn (CO-05), and Jim Jordan (OH-04) released the following statement: “The kidnapping of these innocent teenagers, including an American citizen, is despicable. The United States government should provide any resources necessary to assist in their safe return. Until these three are safely returned, the United States should suspend any aid to the Palestinian Authority. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the kidnapped children.” 

Congressman Trent Franks (AZ-08) said, “It is my sincere prayer that these precious teens are safely returned immediately. In the strongest terms possible, I fully support Israel's right to defend itself against all those who seek to do her harm, including this new unity government with Hamas, a long-standing terrorist organization.” 

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Contacts:
Erin Montgomery, Press Secretary
Office of Congressman Andy Harris, M.D. (MD-01)
202-225-5311
erin.montgomery@mail.house.gov 

Jarred Rego, Communications Director
Office of Congressman Doug Lamborn (CO-05)
719-520-0055
jarred.rego@mail.house.gov 

Ray Yonkura, Chief of Staff
Office of Congressman Jim Jordan (OH-04)
202-225-2676
ray.yonkura@mail.house.gov 

Ben Carnes, Communications Director
Office of Congressman Trent Franks (AZ-08)
202-225-4576
ben.carnes@mail.house.gov