SOLIDARITY WITH ISRAEL AND SUPPORT FOR SERBIA IN COMBATING TERRORISM

BANJA LUKA, OCTOBER 28 /SRNA/ – The Republika Srpska International Cooperation Office has condemned the terrorist attack on the Israeli Embassy in Belgrade, stressing that Srpska expresses its full and unconditional solidarity with Israel and the Jewish people, as well as its support for Serbia and its institutions in combating terrorism.

"This attack is yet another serious warning that antisemitism, Islamist extremism and terrorism remain a real threat to the security of the Jewish people and the State of Israel, as well as to all those who oppose ideologies of hatred and violence," the Office said.

It stresses that such threats must not be met with political ambiguity, selective condemnation or attempts to downplay their seriousness.

Republika Srpska, sa cited, expresses its full and unconditional solidarity with Israel and the Jewish people.

"Our friendship is not determined by current political circumstances, but by a deep historical understanding, mutual respect and a shared conviction that a people's right to exist, preserve its identity and ensure its security is not subject to negotiation or anyone else`s approval," the Office emphasised.

Republika Srpska, it adds, stands equally firmly alongside Serbia and its institutions in confronting terrorism.

"We express our gratitude to the Gendarmerie officer who stopped the attacker and wish him a swift and full recovery. Friends, we stand with you!" the Republika Srpska International Cooperation Office said.

A minor, suspected of being from Šabac, attacked a Gendarmerie officer with two knives last night while the officer was guarding the premises outside the Israeli Embassy in Belgrade, shouting "Allahu Akbar".

The Gendarmerie officer neutralised the attacker in self-defence and sustained minor injuries in the incident. The red terrorist threat alert level was declared.