Upate - Based on information from Associated Press, 08/02/09 2:51AM EDT
Two of the victims have been identified as a 17-year old female and a 24-year old male. Even the ultra-Orthodox Shas Party, a frequent critic of gays in Israel, has issued a statement condemming the attack.
Community support, always strong for gays in Tel Aviv, has lead thousands to impromptu marches in support of the victims of this crime and calling for tolerance. The Mayor of Tel Aviv has pledged to continue the city's "pluralistic nature". Gay and lesbians enjoy great freedom and liberties in Israel. Gay musicians and actors are among the country's most popular. Nitzan Horowitz is an openly gay member of the government. Gays openly serve in the military, something even US gay citizens can still not do.
There were unconfirmed reports from London sources that the gunman may have tried to gain entry into another gay gathering spot a short while later, but was turned away. This report can not yet be verified.
My personal fear is that such incidents fan the flames of hatred hidding in the hearts of bigots and could inspire copy cat crimes. I fear the rainbow around the world is shedding tears of blood tonight.
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