Washington, DC, March 23 -- The American Task Force on Palestine (ATFP) has been following the escalating violence between Palestinians and Israel over the recent weeks with growing alarm. ATFP reiterates its unequivocal condemnation of all forms of terrorism and the killing of innocent civilians no matter who the perpetrators or the victims might be and no matter in what cause such actions are rationalized. The particularly indefensible and contemptible killing of children must especially be condemned without reservation.

The recent violence targeting Palestinians and Israelis in the West Bank, the increased firing of missiles against southern Israel, Israeli attacks that have caused civilian casualties in Gaza, and today’s terrorist bombing in Jerusalem are all creating an explosive situation that could spiral out of everyone’s control. As ATFP calls for investigating and punishing those involved in terrorism and violence against civilians, the Task Force also urges all sides to restrain their actions and rhetoric to avoid a descent into war and all-out confrontation that cannot serve the interests of any responsible parties and would further damage the prospects for peace.