Marie Harf
Deputy Spokesperson
Daily Press Briefing
Washington, DC
January 15, 2014
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PALESTINIAN TERRITORIES
- Condemnation of Attack on Palestinian Mosque
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MS. HARF: …
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The United States condemns the acts of vandalism that were committed against a Palestinian mosque in the West Bank on January 14th. We believe that such hateful and provocative actions against a place of worship are never justified. We look to Israeli law enforcement officials to quickly investigate and bring to justice the perpetrators of this attack. And we encourage local authorities to work together with the community to reduce tension, to defend religious freedom, and to work against incitement – excuse me guys, I’m really sorry. We agree with the sentiment of the Council of Religious Institutions of the Holy Land that any attacks on the sites of one religion are, in effect, an attack on all religions.
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QUESTION: Did the Secretary accept the apology by the Israeli defense minister?
MS. HARF: Well, the Secretary spoke to this a little bit this morning in his press avail in Kuwait. He said – and I’m quoting – “We just can’t let one set of comments undermine that effort” – obviously, the peace process is what he’s referring to, and, quote, “I don’t intend to.”
So I think we made very clear yesterday our position on those comments. The Secretary spoke to it, and I think I’d let his words speak for themselves.
QUESTION: Marie —
QUESTION: Has he received a formal apology?
MS. HARF: I just don’t have anything more for you on this, guys.
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QUESTION: One more on Yaalon.
MS. HARF: Yeah.
QUESTION: There are reports that the U.S. has asked Prime Minister Netanyahu to publicly condemn Yaalon attack on Secretary Kerry. Is that true?
MS. HARF: I just – I know there’s a lot of rumors out there. I just don’t have anything more for you on this. We’ve been very clear that we found those comments offensive. The prime minister is free to speak for himself.
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(The briefing was concluded at 12:49 p.m.)
Country: Israel, United States of America
Subject: Holy places, Incidents, Peace process, Settlements
Publication Date: 15/01/2014