CNN
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Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James calls Hamas attacks on Israel ‘tragic and unacceptable’ in joint statement statement He announced the news Wednesday on X (formerly Twitter) with business partner Maverick Carter.
“The destruction inflicted on Israel is tragic and unacceptable. Hamas’ murder and violence against innocent people is terrorism,” James and Carter said.
“The SpringHill Company family extends its deepest condolences to Israel and the Jewish community,” the statement added, referring to the Emmy-winning studio team 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 long been a champion for social justice and racial equality.
“I will never shut up about something that is wrong,” James said in 2021. “I advocate for my people, I advocate for equality, social justice, racism, voter suppression — things that are happening in our communities.”
“I will use my platform to continue to shed light on everything that is going on in this country and around the world. I can’t just stick to sports because I know how powerful this platform and my voice are.”
The decades-old conflict between Israel and the Palestinians entered uncharted territory this week after Hamas launched an onslaught on Oct. 7 and armed militants poured into Israel across the heavily fortified border.
Gunmen carried out coordinated attacks on farms and communities, killing more than 1,200 people, injuring thousands more and taking as many as 150 hostages.
After the attack, Israel stepped up its offensive in Gaza.
According to the Palestinian Health Ministry, at least 1,200 people have been killed in Gaza, including hundreds of women and children.
Israeli airstrikes continue to hit densely populated areas, destroying buildings, reducing entire streets to rubble, trapping residents and injuring thousands more.
In pictures: Deadly conflict between Israel and Gaza
The National Basketball Association (NBA) and the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) issued a joint statement on Monday to mourn the victims of the Israeli attack.
“The NBA and NBPA condole 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. explain.
Meanwhile, 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,” explain.
“Our hearts go out to all the families and friends of those who have lost their lives or are missing at this time. We hope that peace, dialogue and understanding will prevail over violence and hatred.”
this National Football League, Major League Baseball and National Hockey League A statement was also issued condemning Israeli violence.