US 'unequivocally' condemns attacks on Israel by 'Hamas terrorists'

The United States on Saturday "unequivocally" condemned attacks by "Hamas terrorists" against Israel, the White House said in a statement.

"The United States unequivocally condemns the unprovoked attacks by Hamas terrorists against Israeli civilians," National Security Council spokeswoman Adrienne Watson said in a statement, adding that "there is never any justification for terrorism."

National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan has spoken to Israeli National Security Advisor Tzachi Hanegbi and will remain in close contact with Israeli partners over the operation, according to the statement.


"We stand firmly with the Government and people of Israel and extend our condolences for the Israeli lives lost in these attacks," Watson added.

The Palestinian militant group Hamas launched an air, sea and land attack on Israel Saturday.

Israel said it was at war with Hamas following the surprise dawn attack from the blockaded Gaza Strip that, according to medics, had so far killed at least 22 people on its territory.

US President Joe Biden called Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to express his support for Israel's right to self-defence following the recent rocket attacks from Hamas.

"US President Joe Biden called Prime Minister of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu and emphasized that the US stands alongside Israel and fully supports Israel's right to self-defence," stated Office of the Prime Minister of Israel.