Deerfield Mayor Condemns Hamas’s 'Terrorist Assault' Against Israel

DEERFIELD, IL — As the conflict between Israel and Hamas continues, local municipalities are calling out Hamas for committing violence in the region.

Deerfield Mayor Dan Shapiro, in a message to the community, said the Village condemns Hamas's terrorist assault against Israel, while also supporting Israel's "right to defend itself and to exist."

"On behalf of all of the residents of the Village of Deerfield, I extend my condolences for the lives lost to the victims, and their families and those close to them from these terrorist attacks. Terrorism is never justified, never," Shapiro said Tuesday.

Natalie Raanan, a 2023 graduate of Deerfield High School, is among the Americans missing in Israel following the attack over the weekend. Her mother, Judith, is also reportedly missing.
Deerfield High School Principal Dr. Kathryn Anderson sent out an email to the school community with the news Monday night, saying that Raanan, 18, a resident of Evanston, was visiting family in Israel.

RELATED: Family Fears Deerfield High Grad Taken Hostage In Israel — Principal

"Her family fears that she has been taken hostage by Hamas," Anderson said. "Unfortunately, we have no additional information at this time. We keep Natalie and her family in our hearts, along with all the innocent lives lost, wounded and impacted by the terrorist attack."

The mother and daughter were visiting relatives in Nahal Oz Saturday when it is believed they were captured from a kibbutz near the Gaza Strip.

In Glencoe, area residents and officials, including Gov. J.B. Pritzker, gathered at North Suburban Congregation Israel Tuesday in an act of solidarity with Israel.

RELATED: Illinois Officials Stand With Israel At Solidarity Event In Glencoe

"Saturday and the days ahead will forever change the lives of thousands of Israelis who will mourn the loss of their loved ones," Shapiro concluded. "Many in our community have relatives, friends or loved ones in Israel. We are thinking of them, support them and support Israel in this difficult time."

To read Shapiro's full statement, visit here.

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