US condemns shooting attack on Jerusalem synagogue that killed 7

By Michael Hernandez

WASHINGTON (AA) - The US condemned on Friday the "absolutely horrific" shooting attack on a synagogue in east Jerusalem that killed at least seven people.

"Our thoughts, prayers, and condolences go out to those killed and injured in this heinous act of violence," State Department spokesman Vedant Patel told reporters. "We condemn this apparent terrorist attack in the strongest terms. Our commitment to Israel's security remains ironclad, and we are in direct touch with our Israeli partners."

The agency announced Thursday that Secretary of State Antony Blinken will travel to the region, including Israel and the occupied West Bank next week. Friday's attack is not expected to affect his travel.

Israel's national medical emergency service said seven victims were killed during the attack in the Neve Yaakov Jewish settlement in East Jerusalem. Two additional victims were listed in critical condition, while three others were being treated for injuries listed as serious, moderate to serious and moderate, respectively, it said on Twitter.

Three of the victims were sent to Hadassah Mount Scopus Hospital, according to the medical service.

Israeli police later said in a written statement that the gunman arrived in a car and opened fire at a synagogue in the settlement.

In a shootout, Israeli police killed the gunman as he attempted to flee the scene, it added.

Israel's National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir also arrived at the scene of the attack, where he assessed the situation with police chief Kobi Shabtai.

Israel built the Neve Yaakov settlement in 1967 in occupied East Jerusalem.