Joint Base Charleston
North Charleston, South Carolina

THE VICE PRESIDENT:  Hi.  Well, it’s good to be back in Charleston, but I want to just, first of all, say a few words about what’s happening in Israel right now.  And needless to say, I’m completely outraged by what has taken place.  We are looking at extreme acts of terrorism that must be condemned in no uncertain terms.  There is absolutely no justification for terrorism.

The President and I take very seriously our commitment to Israel and to the people of Israel to support them and, in particular, to give Israel what it needs to defend itself. 

One of our highest priorities, of course, is the safety and wellbeing of American citizens, and that will continue to be among our highest priorities. 

It is also critically important that, as we have been, we will stay in constant communication and contact with our allies, with our Israeli partners, with members of Congress, as we have been doing these last few days.

In fact, this morning, I was on a call — and the President was on — with Prime Minister Netanyahu, which is now one of many calls that have taken place, to restate our commitment that is unwavering to stand with Israel and the Israeli people.

So, thank you.

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