(CNN) — Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James and partner Maverick Carter issued a joint statement on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, calling Hamas’s attacks on Israel “tragic and unacceptable.”
“The destruction inflicted on Israel is tragic and unacceptable. Hamas’ murder and violence against innocent people is terrorism,” James and Carter said.
“The SpringHill family of companies extends its deepest condolences to Israel and the Jewish community,” the statement added, referring to the team at the Emmy-winning studio founded by James and Carter.
“We pray for peace in the region and reaffirm our continued commitment to combating all forms of hatred.”
James has been a long-time advocate for social justice and racial equality.
“I will never be silent about something that is wrong. I advocate for my people, I advocate for equality, social justice, racism, voter suppression and what’s going on in our communities,” James said in 2021.
“I will use my platform to continue to focus on everything that is happening in this country and around the world. I will never limit myself to sports because I understand how powerful this platform and my voice can be.”
The conflict between Israel and the Palestinians, which dates back decades, entered uncharted territory this week after Hamas launched an onslaught on Oct. 7 when armed militants crossed the heavily fortified border into Israel.
Gunmen have killed more than 1,200 people, injured thousands more and taken as many as 150 hostages in coordinated attacks on farms and communities.
After the attack, Israel stepped up its offensive in Gaza.
Since then, at least 1,200 people have died in Gaza, including hundreds of women and children, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry.
Israel continues airstrikes in the densely populated area, destroying buildings and reducing entire streets to rubble, trapping residents and injuring thousands.
The NBA (National Basketball Association) and NBPA (National Basketball Players Association) issued a joint statement on Monday to mourn those who lost their lives in the Israeli attack.
“The NBA and NBPA mourn the horrific loss of life in Israel and condemn these acts of terrorism. We stand with the people of Israel and pray for peace throughout the region,” the organizations said.
For its part, Major League Soccer (MLS) issued a statement calling for peace in the region.
“Major League Soccer condolences the loss of life in Israel and condemns all forms of terrorism.
“Our hearts go out to all the families and friends of those currently killed or missing. We hope that peace, dialogue and understanding will prevail over violence and hatred.”
The NFL, MLB and NHL also issued statements condemning the violence in Israel.
CNN’s Nada Bashir, Kareem El Damanhoury, Ali Younes, Mohammed Tawfeeq, Rhea Mogul and David Close contributed reporting.