Police were increasing security and patrols around Jewish institutions in Beverly Hills Saturday following the Hamas attack against Israel.
“We are appalled by this act of terrorism by Hamas against the citizens and civilian communities in Israel,” Beverly Hills Mayor Julian Gold said. “We call on President Biden and Congress to act swiftly in support of Israel. Additionally, we hope all peace-loving nations of the world and the United Nations, will condemn this senseless violence. Our hearts are with the people of Israel as we stand together and support Israel defending itself and condemn this heinous act.”
Hamas — a Palestinian Sunni-Islamic fundamentalist group founded in 1987 that disputes Israel’s right to territory — launched the attack early Saturday morning, firing thousands of rockets into Israeli towns from the Gaza Strip and also sending in ground forces.
Israel said at least 70 of its citizens were killed and hundreds wounded, and un unknown number of Israeli soldiers and civilians were captured and taken to Gaza as hostages.
The attack came on the 50th anniversary of the so-called “Yom Kippur War,” in which Israel was attacked by a coalition of Arab states.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told his nation, “We are at war” in a televised address.
President Joe Biden issued a statement of support for Israel, and many Southland elected leaders condemned the attack.
“Today, I spoke with @IsraeliPM about the appalling Hamas terrorist attacks in Israel. I offered our support and reiterated my unwavering commitment to Israel’s security,” Biden posted on X. “@FLOTUS and I express our heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost loved ones.”