Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, a senior member of the House Homeland Security Committee and Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security, and Investigations, released the following statement today regarding the terrorist attack in Barcelona, Spain, that left at least 12 persons dead and more than 100 victims injured:

"All Americans share in horror at the unspeakable terror attacks in Barcelona today. Today's attacks are a reminder of the common danger the free, democratic nations of the world face from violent fanatics that have no regard for life and liberty. They are also a reminder that violence and instability in the Middle East resonate far beyond the region, and the international community must not retreat from addressing it.

"My thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their loved ones - as well as with the people of Spain and all of Europe. Barcelona is a shining example of everything these terrorists despise: a vibrant, cosmopolitan European city with an open, inclusive spirit. It is a city steeped in history and art, and its dynamism invites millions of visitors from around the world. Surely Barcelona and Europe will emerge from today's attacks with an even stronger resolve to continue living up to these ideals, and the American people will continue standing in solidarity with the Spanish people as they do so.

"The United States will offer our full assistance to the Spanish people as they work to bring the perpetrators and the planners of this attack to justice. We will be relentless in our fight against terror. We will not allow terrorists to succeed in blinding us with fear. To confront this threat abroad and protect the American people at home, we must be both strong and smart. No terrorist can overcome the strength of our values.”

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