Speaking for the second time in less than 12 hours, President Barack Obama once again addressed the issue of gun violence in the United States. He wasted no time in describing the shooting deaths of five Dallas police officers as “a vicious, calculated and despicable attack on law enforcement” during a NATO leaders summit in Warsaw, Poland on Friday.
After arriving in Warsaw, the president delivered a statement condemning the police killings of Alton Sterling and Philando Castile. He also voiced his frustration in a Facebook post, which asked the American public to come together and prevent future fatal shootings. Hours later, amid a protest in Dallas, five police officers were gunned down and killed in a sniper shootings attack. The president stated justice would be served for those that committed these fatal shootings:
“There is no possible justification for these kinds of attacks or any violence against law enforcement. Anyone involved in the senseless murders will be held fully accountable. Justice will be done.”
The Dallas shooting represents the deadliest day for law enforcement since September 11. The president went on to say the FBI is in touch with the Dallas police and is looking for those who are responsible. He finished by stating this is a tragic event and commends the police officers in Dallas, but reiterated it is time to reconsider the country’s gun laws once again.
“Today is a wrenching reminder of the sacrifices they make for us. We also know when people are armed with powerful weapons, unfortunately, it makes attacks like these more deadly and more tragic.”
Will this week of tragedy prompt Congress to take action on gun control? Lawmakers deadlocked after the Orlando shootings, but Senate and House Democrats will likely press the issue once more. Otherwise, they may face consequences at polling booths this November.
(Via The White House)