10/17/2001
Text: Bush Condemns Assassination of Israeli Tourism Minister Zeevi
(Says Palestinian Authority must act vigorously against terrorists)

President Bush has condemned the assassination of Israeli Tourism Minister Rehavam Zeevi and said, "it is time for the Palestinian Authority [PA] to take vigorous action against terrorists," according to a White House statement released in Sacramento, California October 17.

"The PA must immediately find and bring to justice those who committed this murder, as well as those who would do harm to efforts to restore an atmosphere of calm and security for Israelis and Palestinians," the statement said.

The statement urged the Israelis and Palestinians to continue to take positive steps to improve the situation and not allow the terrorists to claim victory.

Following is the text of the White House statement:

(begin text)

THE WHITE HOUSE Office of the Press Secretary (Sacramento, California)

October 17, 2001

STATEMENT BY THE PRESS SECRETARY

Assassination of Israeli Cabinet Minister

The President condemns in the strongest terms the assassination of Israeli Tourism Minister Rehavam Zeevi today. He offers his condolences and those of the United States to Prime Minister Sharon, the Israeli government and people, and the family of Minister Zeevi. This despicable act is further evidence of the need to fight terrorism.

We have noted the statement of the Palestinian Authority condemning this assassination. This statement is appropriate, but words are not enough. It is time for the Palestinian Authority to take vigorous action against terrorists. The PFLP, which operates openly in areas controlled by the Palestinian Authority, has claimed responsibility for this heinous act. The PA must immediately find and bring to justice those who committed this murder, as well as those who would do harm to efforts to restore an atmosphere of calm and security for Israelis and Palestinians.

There have been positive steps recently by both Israel and the Palestinians to improve the situation. Israelis and Palestinians should continue down this path. The terrorists must not be allowed to declare victory. They should seize the moment to put an end to violence, implement the Tenet and Mitchell plans, and resume political dialogue. The entire world will support them in their efforts.

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