World reacts to Hamas attack on Israel

U.S. President Joe Biden: “Today, I spoke with (Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu) about the appalling Hamas terrorist attacks in Israel. I offered our support and reiterated my unwavering commitment to Israel’s security. (First lady Jill Biden) and I express our heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost loved ones.”

United States NSC spokesperson Adrienne Watson, according to the White House: “The United States unequivocally condemns the unprovoked attacks by Hamas terrorists against Israeli civilians. There is never any justification for terrorism. We stand firmly with the Government and people of Israel and extend our condolences for the Israeli lives lost in these attacks. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan has spoken to Israeli National Security Advisor Tzachi Hanegbi and we remain in close contact with our Israeli partners.”

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United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak: “I am shocked by this morning’s attacks by Hamas terrorists against Israeli citizens. Israel has an absolute right to defend itself. We’re in contact with Israeli authorities, and British nationals in Israel should follow travel advice.”

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Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte: “Appalling images from Israel. Terror organization Hamas is waging an unprecedented attack on Israel. Innocent civilians are being attacked by terrorists. This violence must stop; Israel has every right to defend itself.”

Rutte followed up with another tweet saying that he spoke with Netanyahu.

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“I told him that the Netherlands unequivocally condemns this terrorist violence and fully supports Israel’s right to defend itself,” Rutte said.

French President Emmanuel Macron: “I strongly condemn the terrorist attacks which are currently hitting Israel. I express my full solidarity with the victims, and their families and loved ones.”

Macron also said that he spoke with President Herzog and Prime Minister Netanyahu. He said that France stands with Israel in solidarity.

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German Chancellor Olaf Scholz: “Terrifying news reach us today from Israel. We are deeply shocked by the rocket fire from Gaza and the escalating violence. Germany condemns these attacks by Hamas and stands by Israel.”

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Italy’s president Sergio Mattarella said, according to CNN: “The Italian government is closely following the brutal attack taking place in Israel. It condemns in the strongest terms the ongoing terror and violence against innocent civilians and supports Israel’s right to defend itself. Terror will never prevail.”

Spain’s foreign minister José Manuel Albares said, according to CNN: “All our solidarity with the victims. Spain is firmly committed to peace, security and stability in the region.”

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky said, according to the New York Times: “Israel has every right to protect itself from terror. So does any other state. And it is very important for the whole world to respond to terror in a united and principled fashion.”

Pennsylvania lawmakers joined worldwide leaders in reacting to the attack.

Governor Josh Shapiro issued a statement, condemning the acts of war by Hamas. His full statement reads:

"I condemn the horrific acts of war in Israel by Hamas and their enablers. These attacks on innocent Israeli civilians are abhorrent and warrant world condemnation and outrage. Our family has shared many special moments in Israel and our hearts break for those living this horror now. We stand in solidarity against terror and are praying for all people in Israel."

Senator Bob Casey calls on the U.S. to stand with Israel. His full statement reads:

"Hamas has launched a coordinated terrorist attack against Israel, starting with thousands of rockets fired upon innocent Israelis and continued violence throughout the day.

The United States must stand with Israel and its right to self defense.

This is a tragic day. Hundreds are already dead and countless Israelis and Palestinian civilians are at risk because of this needless slaughter."