American Israel lobby fundraises off bomb attack

Maan News Agency - The American pro-Israel lobby group AIPAC apologized Wednesday for using a bomb attack in Jerusalem to solicit money from its supporters, news reports said.

Hours after the attack killed a British woman and injured 30, AIPAC circulated a letter reading: "Today, terrorists exploded a package at a Jerusalem bus stop killing one person and injuring 30 others, 15 seriously.

"And in this last week alone, Gaza terrorists have bombarded Israeli towns with more than 50 rockets and mortars," it continued, adding, "And this is why I am writing today to ask for your help."

The Washington Jewish Week reported that AIPAC official Jonathan Missner sent out a second note to donors saying the pro-Israel lobby was "deeply sorry" for soliciting funds in such a manner.

"Today, you received an email from us about the dangers facing Israel right now and ways in which you can help ensure American support for Israel at a difficult and dangerous time," the note said.

"We included information about the horrific bombing in Jerusalem. In hindsight, it was wrong of us to mention this terrible tragedy the same day it occurred in the context of this email. We are deeply sorry...
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