The White House condemned Tuesday's terrorist attack which killed four Jews near Hebron in the "strongest possible terms," and warned that "enemies of peace" would try to thwart direct peace talks which are scheduled to begin in Washington on Thursday.

White House spokesman Robert Gibbs said in a statement."We express our condolences to the victims' families and call for the terrorists behind this horrific act to be brought to justice.

It is crucial that the parties persevere, keep moving forward even through difficult times, and continue working to achieve a just and lasting peace in the region that provides security for all peoples."