SALT LAKE CITY — After more than 200 people were killed in an attack on Israel by Palestinian militant group Hamas, many Utahns are expressing their support for the Israeli people.
Hamas launched a surprise attack early Saturday morning during a major Jewish holiday. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded by declaring war on Hamas. Israel then retaliated with a counterattack on the Gaza Strip, which also killed more than 200 people.
"[The] United Jewish Federation of Utah along with the Jewish community of Utah stand in total and complete solidarity with our Israeli brethren. We pray for their safety and will do everything we can to ensure the complete and total success of their efforts," the federation said in a statement following the attack.
The federation said many Jewish Utahns have family members in Israel who are either hiding or are being called up for reserve duty.
"Utah has a long-standing relationship with Israel, and we will stand by our ally as they face the aftermath of an unjust attack on their country and people," Gov. Spencer Cox tweeted. "Our hearts go out to all those affected by this act of terrorism. Israel, and its people, will be in our prayers."
Brigham Young University's Jerusalem Center said its 94 students, along with the employees, were not directly impacted but have been told to stay at the center. Planned travel events outside the center were canceled. Officials said future changes will be made on a case-by-case basis, but it's likely they will remain at the center into next week.
Several other elected officials shared statements in reaction to the attack, as seen below:
During this dark time, Attorney General @SeanReyesUT and the Utah Attorney General's Office stand with our close ally, Israel. We pray for comfort for all the families who have suffered from this wanton terror. https://t.co/BJNdSCEg20
— Utah Attorney General (@UtahAG) October 8, 2023
These are horrible developments with dire consequences. Our hearts and support are with the state of Israel and our friends in Utah’s Jewish communities. 🇮🇱 https://t.co/U7iJb8fexw pic.twitter.com/rfLDzuNOsB
— Lt. Gov. Deidre M. Henderson (@LGHendersonUtah) October 7, 2023
Horrific attacks on Israelis by Iran-backed Hamas. Vile, inhumane brutality once again descends on a peaceful nation. We stand wholeheartedly with Israel and support its right to defend itself.
— Senator Mitt Romney (@SenatorRomney) October 7, 2023
I was saddened to wake up to news of Hamas’ attack on the State of Israel, prompting a state of war to be declared. I fully support Israel and their right to defend themselves, and I pray this conflict ends swiftly. #utpol
— Congressman Blake Moore (@RepBlakeMoore) October 7, 2023
I am horrified by the barbaric attack against innocent Israelis. The terrorists responsible for these evil actions represent the worst of humanity.
— Rep. Burgess Owens (@RepBurgessOwens) October 7, 2023
The United States stands unflinchingly with the nation of Israel.
Hamas terrorists have killed a hundred innocent Israeli civilians, wounded hundreds more, and taken dozens of hostages. Israel has a right to defend itself and its people, and my prayers are with the families suffering from these unprovoked attacks.https://t.co/GwSSreYkVO
— Mike Lee (@SenMikeLee) October 7, 2023
I stand in solidarity with our ally, Israel, and its people. I also extend my condolences to the innocent Israelis who have lost their lives in this unjustified act of terrorism. Israel must defend itself and I pray they quickly find peace. pic.twitter.com/Y75B7Fntkd
— Speaker Brad Wilson (@BradWilsonGOP) October 7, 2023
