JCFR and JCRC Statement on the Attack on Nice, France

The Jewish Community Federation of Richmond (JCFR) and its Jewish Community Relations Committee (JCRC) condemn the horrific terrorist attack against innocent civilians in the French city of Nice. This is the third major strike in France in the past 18 months and one of a spate of attacks in the past several months. It is especially despicable that as France was celebrating its Independence Day and venerable democratic tradition, 84 people were murdered at last count by a terrorist bent on undermining such freedom. Two US citizens were murdered and two Jewish French sisters are critically wounded. Our hearts go out to the families of those who have lost their loved ones.

At least five Jews were wounded in the attack said Rabbi Yossef Yitschok Pinson of the local Chabad. He went on to say, “We will not let this affect us, we will not let fear affect or damage the life of our community, just as France will not let fear of terrorism change it.” Unlike the canceled local Jazz festival and Rihanna concert which were scheduled for this weekend, the Rabbi explained Shabbat services will not be canceled.

Last night, French President, François Hollande said, “In such circumstances we must show absolute vigilance and determination. Nothing will lead us to give up the fight against terrorism. We will continue to reinforce our actions in Syria and Iraq and continue to strike at those attacking us on our own soil…. France is deeply afflicted by this new tragedy. France is horrified. France is afflicted but France is strong. France will always be stronger than the terrorists.”

 

In condolence letter sent to President Hollande, Israeli President, Reuven Rivlin wrote, “It is with pain and sorrow that I must once again write and express my deepest condolences, and those of all the Israeli people, following the horrific terror attack in Nice.” He continued, “Israel stands with France and the Israeli people stand with the French people, shoulder to shoulder in the face of this terrible evil, as should the whole free world. We must work united to reach the terrorists, their supporters and backers, wherever they may hide. We will never give up. As you said, we are stronger than the fanatics who seek to harm us.”