Statement by Ambassador Opher Aviran, Consul General of Israel to the Southeast, regarding the shooting at Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, SC, on June 17:

“As the people of the city of Charleston and the state of South Carolina remember the lives of the nine individuals murdered at Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church, I, along with my family, the Consulate staff, and the Israeli community at large, offer our sincerest condolences.

This brutal act of violence exposes the threats democratic societies like ours face when hate rears its ugly head. We condemn in the strongest terms this senseless act carried out against innocent victims gathered in a house of worship, a place that should serve as a refuge and place of inspiration. The people of the State of Israel mourn with you in this exceedingly difficult time.”

Letters from Ambassador Aviran have been sent to South Carolina’s leadership to convey condolences to the families and affected community.

 For additional information, please contact Dena Weiss, Director of Public Affairs, at 404-487-6511 or at pr@atlanta.mfa.gov.il.​