Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson reached out to the mayor of Ariel, Israel, on Monday after learning of the terrorist attack by the Palestinian group Hamas over the weekend.
Ariel is a sister city to Mobile, meaning the two cities work together on ideas and support.
The terrorist attack near the Gaza Strip happened on the Jewish holiday Simchat Torah. Israel fired back, and as of Monday, the death toll from both sides was well over 1,500. At least 11 Americans have been killed and others taken hostage.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the country was at war.
Stimpson's office said he reached out to Ariel Mayor Eli Shaviro and expressed support and offered prayers to the people of Israel.
"Like many Americans, my heart is broken for the hundreds of families impacted by the violent attacks in Israel over the weekend," Stimpson said. "We are standing in solidarity with Ariel, our sister city. I know Mobilians will continue to keep the victims, their families and the entire country in our thoughts and prayers."
Shaviro told Stimpson that Ariel officials are working to ensure safety precautions are in place so that residents of his community remain safe and strong. However, he said the people there were horrified by the attack.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email erica.thomas@1819news.com.
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