SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (Dakota News Now) – South Dakota’s congressional leaders and Governor Kristi Noem weighed in on the unprecedented attack by Hamas near the Gaza strip that broke out on Saturday during a major Jewish holiday.

Governor Noem released a full statement, saying

“Beloved people of Israel: your friends and allies in America stand with you. We support you in defending the homeland given to your people by God. These barbaric actions have shocked the conscience of the world. We share your anger at the viciousness of these attacks and the death, pain, and suffering it has caused, and we support your right to use all measures necessary to prevent future attacks.

“During my time on the House Armed Services Committee, I saw what regular violence perpetrated by Hamas terrorists against Israel looks like. This goes so far beyond that – this was an act of war, an invasion of your sacred home.

“We are praying for a swift resolution to this war; for safety and peace for the hostages taken by the Hamas terrorists; for comfort to the families who have lost loved ones or whose lives have otherwise been forever changed by this horrific day; for the first responders to act calmly and quickly in their work of healing and repair; for Prime Minister Netanyahu and his armed forces to strike swiftly, truly, and with justice; and for Hamas to be driven from the face of the Earth as a just consequence for their atrocities.

“In the coming days, all Americans – and the whole world – must stand firm in our resolve to support the Israeli people. As Prime Minister Netanyahu said, ‘This war will take time. She will be hard. Challenging days are ahead. But… with the help of God… we will win.’ Godspeed to you, my friend Prime Minister Netanyahu, and to your people. You will win, and you have our support every step of the way.”

Senator John Thune condemned the attacks which he called a “senseless terrorist attack on Israel.” Thune also said he stands with Israel and called the nation one of America’s strongest allies.

Senator Mike Rounds said he was “shocked and saddened” to see the attacks, which he condemned.

Representative Dusy Johnson called the attacks “wholly unconscionable” and also said he stands with Israel.