American Jewish Committee Condemns Shooting In Hebron

American Jewish Committee
Thursday, 2 January 1997

The American Jewish Committee condemns yesterday's random shooting in a Hebron market by an off-duty, and reportedly deranged, Israeli solider. We extend our sympathy to the seven Palestinians who were wounded in that attack and wish them a swift and full recovery.

This criminal act highlights, once again, the extremism that continues to exist from those who would seek to kill the peace process along with innocent civilians. People of good will - Israelis and Palestinians -- cannot allow these wanton acts of bloodshed to derail an already fragile peace process. Confidence and trust must be built up, not torn down.

We are gratified that Prime Minister Netanyahu and Chairman Arafat are continuing their negotiations for Israeli troop re-deployment from most of Hebron and that they have recommitted themselves to the peace process. Both leaders understand that they are bound by the Oslo Accords and are working to implement these agreements as soon as possible to achieve tangible progress in Hebron and beyond.

Serious differences still remain that will require reinforced mutual commitment and time to resolve. But during such times of high tension, we must remember that peace is possible, political solutions are the only answer, and turning back is not an option.

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