Netanyahu Says Israel Stands With GOP Shooting Victims
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JERUSALEM (JTA) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sent wishes for a speedy recovery for the victims of the shooting at a Republican team’s baseball practice for a charity game against congressional Democrats.
“On behalf of the Government and people of Israel, I send our heartfelt wishes for a full and speedy recovery to Congressman Steve Scalise and the other victims of today’s tragic shooting attack in Virginia,” Netanyahu said in a statement issued late Wednesday in Israel. “We stand with the victims, their families and the American people on this difficult day.”
James T. Hodgkinson, the alleged gunman who was killed by congressional security at the venue, backed Bernie Sanders. Hodgkinson, 66, a resident of Belleville, Illinois, filled his Facebook page with screeds against Trump. He signed a petition urging the Senate to remove Trump from office for treason.
Hodgkinson, who reportedly opened fire with an automatic weapon, was shot dead in return fire by Capitol Police officers who were present at the practice for Thursday’s game against the Democrats.
Scalise remained in critical condition early Thursday morning, according to officials at MedStar Washington Hospital Center, the Washington Post reported. Four other people were wounded by gunfire.
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