Mayor Nir Barkat of Jerusalem reacted to the stabbing attack at the city's central bus station by saying, "The enemies of Israel do not need excuses to harm us, so there is no justification and legitimacy for violence and terrorism."
Barkat continued, "The answer to terrorism is the reinforcement of sovereignty, development and construction in all parts of unified Jerusalem. The civilian, policeman and security guard who heroicly stopped the terrorist with their bodies prevented a larger attack. Therefore, the citizens must continue to be vigilant and update the security forces, if necessary, in order to thwart any further attempt, and we all wish full recovery and pray for the speedy recovery of the wounded person."