Hamas militants launched coordinated attacks on as many as 22 locations situated outside the Gaza Strip on Saturday. The attack occurred on a major Jewish holiday. At least 700 people have been killed since the attacks began and several women and children were held hostage.
The echoes of gunfire persisted well into the night, as intense gun battles raged on, and in two separate towns, militants took hostages, plunging those communities into tense standoffs. In a third town, militants successfully occupied a police station, prompting Israeli forces to engage in a protracted struggle that extended into the early hours of Sunday morning before they could ultimately regain control of the facility. These targeted areas included towns and communities located up to 15 miles (24 kilometers) away from the Gaza border. In the midst of this onslaught, civilians and soldiers were tragically caught in the crossfire, while Israel’s military raced to assemble a response.
Following news of the Hamas attacks, West Hollywood community leaders expressed their support for Israel:
“I condemn the attacks by Hamas and the terror groups from Gaza on Israel and her people,” wrote West Hollywood Mayor Sepi Shyne. “The United States stands with the people of Israel as they once again bravely face horrific violence. As someone who has experienced this kind of terror and violence, these actions never lead to peace and my heart goes out to both the Israeli and Palestinian civilians caught in this horrible conflict.
Israel has the right to defend itself and this violence must be universally condemned.”
“I’m horrified by the terrorist attack by Hamas and stand strongly with Israel,” wrote Mayor Pro Tem John Erickson. “I believe Israel has the right to defend itself. The U.S. must do all it can to assist Israel as it protects its citizens. My thoughts and prayers go out to all the families of everyone impacted.”
“Not a fan of Netanyahu,” wrote council member Lauren Meister referring to Benjamin “Bibi” Netanyahu, the Prime Minister of Israel. “but I stand with Israel. To my friends in Israel, stay safe.”
“I strongly condemn the attacks on Israel by Hamas, and stand in solidarity with the Israeli people at this painful and traumatic time,” wrote Los Angeles County Supervisor, Third District, and former WeHo Council member and Mayor, Lindsey Horvath. “All responsible for this attack must be held to account. I pray for strength and safety in Israel.”
Prime Minister Netanyahu said the country is now at war with Hamas and vowed to inflict an “unprecedented price.”
Wtf why do people feel that these council people need to make a statement. And what is the sheriffs department going to offer? We Live in West Hollywood this happened in another country we need to mind our own business and focus on our own troubles which we have plenty of them here and thoughts and prayers don’t do anything statements don’t do anything either but I’ll tell you right now masturbating certainly does which I’m about to do right now
People were murdered and you want to make jokes about masturbating. Grow up. You should be banned from this page. You sound demented.
Happy to see that certain council members were able to condemn these attacks given their past statements. The absence of a statement by Byers speaks volumes. Not surprised regarding a lack of response from Heilman as he has been horrible at communicating in the last six months. I guess he doesn’t need the community any more since he’s currently serving his last term.
Nothing from Chelsea Byers?? considering her history of support for Hamas, she needs to make a statement of complete and utter condemnation of Hamas and their actions!
But all we get is crickets!
Yes the silence is deafening..
Nothing from councilmember John Heilman either. Where is his statements of support for Israel? Why aren’t you tarring and feather him for his silence? You people are the worst.
While it is true that councilmember Heilman has not made a statement, he also doesn’t have the history of enthusiastic vocal support for Hamas that councilmember Byers has!
I don’t know who “you people” are but Heilman should be criticized as much as Byers.
Sepi Shyne and Chelsea Byers have long histories of anti-Israel activities.
Shame on them! They are as responsible as anyone for the murders.
Someone has been reading too much Wehoville. Responsible for the murders? That’s just nuts. Shame on YOU! Get a life.
Demonizing WeHoVille is ridiculous.
Ridiculous? Demonizing is what they are known for. That’s literally their calling card. Who’s being ridiculous here? Saying they’re responsible for these murders is ridiculous. Grow up.