press release
Foreign Minister Steinmeier condemns fatal attack in a synagogue in Jerusalem
date of issue
18.11.2014
During his trip to Kyiv, Foreign Minister Steinmeier issued the following statement on 18 November concerning the fatal attacks on worshippers in a synagogue in Jerusalem:
I am deeply shocked by the news from Jerusalem. That places of worship can be the scene of fatal attacks on innocent worshippers is a terrible transgression in an already extremely tense situation. Our sympathy goes out to the families of the victims and I would like to wish those injured a speedy recovery.
I was in Jerusalem just a few days ago and I noticed how tense the atmosphere is there. What has just happened is a tragedy. I hope it will act as a loud wake-up call. The tensions could quickly lead to an outbreak of violence. The combination of the many unresolved political issues and religious confrontation lends the already serious conflict a a perilous new dimension.
In Amman, the Jordanian King and the Israeli Prime Minister agreed to deal reasonably and circumspectly with the difficult situation on the Temple Mount/Haram al-Sharif. Stakeholders should act in keeping with this spirit, also in this difficult situation.
Country: Germany
Subject: Casualties, Holy places, Incidents, Jerusalem, Security issues, Terrorism
Publication Date: 18/11/2014