More Utahns speak out on the war in Israel

Editor’s note: Since the publication of this article, more political figures have issued statements about the Hamas attacks on Israel. This article has been updated to add more of them. 

SALT LAKE CITY— Just four days removed from the major Hamas terrorist attack in Israel, the war is having an impact around the globe.

USA Today reported U.S. oil prices jumped 4.4% the day after Hamas’ attack to over $86 a barrel. The price of gas is not expected to increase unless fighting spreads to nearby oil producers.

However, Business Insider reported economists express concerns about oil prices and how it could negatively impact U.S. inflation.

Now, more Utah organizations are issuing statements about the attacks.

Political figures

In a statement sent to the media, Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson said she was “profoundly saddened” by the attack against Israel.

“The loss of life, and the images of destruction and cruelty are more than any of us can endure,” she continued. “During this time, let’s cling tightly to those bonds that unite us. While we may be miles away, the impact resonates here within our community, especially among our friends and neighbors who have personal ties to the region.

I hope we can take a moment to reflect on the lives lost, and let our reflection guide us toward actions that will help plant and grow peace, healing, and unity within Salt Lake County, Israel and beyond.”

Utah Congressman Chris Stewart made a statement via the Utah Aerospace and Defence. It read “Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Israel who have tragically lost loved ones as a result of the recent attacks by Hamas….As advocates for peace and resilience, we vehemently condemn the assault as a blatant disregard for civilian lives in the region.” 

Utah Senator Mitt Romney’s statement read “The horrific, inhumane & depraved terrorist acts perpetrated by Hamas against Israelis have touched everyone around the world. News of the loss of a Utahn further tears at our collective heart. I offer my deepest condolences to the loved ones of Lotan Abir—may he rest in peace.”

Finally, Representative Burgess Owens posted a statement on X. 

“@virginiafoxx and I unequivocally condemn the student groups standing in solidarity with Hamas and blaming Israel for these brutal attacks. Hamas terrorists beheaded babies, raped women, kidnapped grandparents, and slaughtered civilians. There is no justification for terrorism,” said Rep. Owens. 

Utah sports teams

Real Salt Lake issued a statement. It said, “We stand with the people of Israel and join them in mourning the hundreds of innocent lives lost to terrorism at the hands of Hamas.”

Utah Jazz also released a statement:

“Utah Jazz stand with Israel and join with people everywhere mourning the loss of innocent lives caused by the Hamas terrorist attacks.”

Additionally, Gov. Spencer Cox has ordered all state facilities to fly flags at half-staff until Friday, Oct. 13 at sunset, “in solidarity with the State of Israel and its people,” said a news release from the governor’s office. Businesses and other Utahns have been encouraged to participate.

Prominent Utahns, including state lawmakers and Israelis living in Utah plan to speak Tuesday night at a solidarity event in Salt Lake City. The event will be held at a recently threatened Jewish Synagogue, Congregation Kol Ami at 5 p.m.

Related:

• Multiple Jewish institutions evacuated after a bomb threat
• Residents in Utah urged to examine their sensitivity to antisemitism
• Beyond politics and towards hope after Hamas attack on Israel