“This appalling attack in a place of worship was intended to provoke a deepening of the spiral of violence, at a time when tensions in Jerusalem in particular are especially high with several other Israelis and Palestinians losing their lives in recent weeks. We call on all parties to act with restraint, and in accordance with the rule of law,” said ITUC General Secretary Sharan Burrow.

“Extremist groups will continue to exploit the growing desperation of Palestinians and the fears of ordinary Israelis, putting peace and security in the region at yet higher risk. The only acceptable way forward is for a negotiated settlement of the conflict, resulting in a two-state solution in accordance with the legitimacy of international law.”