Local U.S. Reps issue statements on recent Middle East attacks

Southern Illinois' two Congressmen condemned the new 9/11 terrorist attacks Tuesday in Egypt and Libya that left four Americans dead, including the U.S. ambassador to Libya and two marines.

An organized mob rushed the embassy compound in Cairo, Egypt, tore down the American flag and burned it before raising the black Islamic flag used by al-Qaeda.

In neighboring Libya a four-hour attack burned the American consulate and ended with the death of two State Department personnel including U.S. Ambassador Chris Stevens, the first American ambassador to die in the line of duty since 1979. Two marines were killed while trying to get Stevens to safety.

"Coinciding with the anniversary of 9/11, this apparently coordinated attack reminds us that we must remain ever vigilant against terrorism," said retiring U.S. Rep. Jerry Costello, D-12th, in a prepared release. "As President Obama has made clear, justice will be done."

"These attacks should be condemned as unjustified and intolerable in true democracies," U.S. Rep. John Shimkus, R-19th, added, in a release of his own. "Attacks on American citizens and our interests abroad demonstrate both the lack of leadership and strength we now show in the Middle East and lack of cooperation with the governments of Egypt and Libya."

The attacks were initially thought to have developed in response to an anti-Muslim documentary produced by a group of Americans that include both Jews and Egyptian-American Christians. Before the attacks even started the American embassy in Cairo issued a statement that "condemns the continuing efforts by misguided individuals to hurt the religious feelings of Muslims - as well condemn efforts to offend believers of all religions."

The apology and attack on Americans' First Amendment rights did not sit well with many in Washington yesterday.

"I am disappointed that any American diplomat or official would think that we should apologize for an intrusion onto American Embassy property in any nation regardless of the rationale or reason. This particular case shows how the Administration seems to be taking great lengths not to offend," Shimkus said.

Both Shimkus and Costello said their thoughts and prayers go out for the family, friends and co-workers of these murdered.

"These are extremely dedicated public servants often working under dangerous conditions, and we honor all that they do on behalf of our country," said Costello.

"They represented the freedom of America in a very turbulent region of the world," added Shimkus.