WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ), Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, today released the following statement calling for the immediate and safe return of three kidnapped Israeli teenagers:
“Our hearts go out to the families of the kidnapped teens and the horror that they are living through right now. I offer my support to the Israeli leaders who are working around the clock to bring the teenagers home safely.
“This is an act of terror, perpetrated by those who reject negotiations, reject a two-state solution, support violence, and use terror as a political tactic. This situation is a direct outgrowth of President Abbas’ attempt to cozy up with a terrorist organization.
“That said, I am pleased that Prime Minister Netanyahu and President Abbas are in communication, and that Abbas has pledged cooperation and security coordination with Israel on expeditiously locating the missing teens and bringing the perpetrators of this heinous crime to justice. And I am encouraged that President Abbas has rightly condemned this act.
“Naftali, Gilad and Eyal belong with their families and each day they are separated is a day of unending suffering. I pray for their speedy return home.”
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