President Bush condemned the January 5 terror bombings in Tel Aviv, Israel. The State Department issued a similar statement by Spokesman Richard Boucher, which noted the condemnation of the bombing by the Palestinian leadership and called for it to "immediately take every step in their power to bring about a comprehensive end to all violence and terrorist attacks without exception."

The White House
Office of the Press Secretary
January 5, 2003

STATEMENT BY THE PRESIDENT

Today terrorists struck again in Israel, murdering and injuring scores of civilians in Tel Aviv. I condemn this attack in the strongest possible terms. It is a despicable act of murder, and I express my condolences to the government and people of Israel and especially to the families of the victims. Secretary Powell has already spoken to Prime Minister Sharon to convey the condolences of the American people. The United States remains determined to continue our efforts toward peace in the Middle East, a goal that the terrorists seek to destroy. All who genuinely seek peace in the region must join in the effort to stop terror. The United States is determined to continue the global fight against terrorism and against the terrorist organizations that conduct operations such as the murders in Israel today.

U.S.DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Richard Boucher, Spokesman
Washington, D.C.
January 5, 2003

Terrorist Bombings in Tel Aviv

The Secretary spoke by telephone with Israeli Prime Minister Sharon today to express the profound sympathy of the United States and the American people for the terrible loss suffered in the terrorist attacks in Tel Aviv earlier today. These attacks on innocent Israelis only serve to set back further the hopes of the Palestinian people and the President's June 24th vision of two states -- Israel and Palestine -- living side-by-side in peace and security.

The United States notes the statement issued by the Palestinian leadership today condemning such terrorist attacks. It is essential that the Palestinian leadership immediately take every step in their power to bring about a comprehensive end to all violence and terrorist attacks without exception.