As Mayor of the City of Newton, I want to lift up the statements of the President of the United States and the U.S. Conference of Mayors. We condemn the horrific coordinated and deadly terrorist attacks in Israel which include the murder and kidnapping of civilians. The City of Newton, like the United States, stands in solidarity with the people of Israel in the face of these terrorist assaults.

Here in Newton, as a precaution the Newton Police Department has increased directed patrols of synagogues, shuls and temples in our community.

Let me finish by quoting Rabbi Sharon Cohen Anisfeld, the President of Hebrew College located here in Newton, “We pray for comfort for those who are grieving, healing for those who are wounded, relief for those who are sick with worry over missing loved ones, and a safe return home for those who have been kidnapped. … May we be brave enough to continue hoping — and working — for an end to this devastating cycle of violence.”