Families Make First Joint Statement To The Press

The parents of kidnapped teenagers Naftali Frenkel, Gilad Sha'ar, and Eyal Yifrah made a joint statement to the press Tuesday, after the first meeting of the three families since the boys were abducted Thursday night by Hamas terrorists.

''We met today for the first time, the Yifrahs - Eyal's parents, the Sha'ars - Gilad's parents and the Frenkels - Naftali's parents," the families said, in a joint statement. "The meeting was very significant and important for us, we have met good people here and we are confident in the strength of the Creator of the Universe [to bring the boys home]."

''We want to give our support for the security forces, who are working day and night to find the boys, the decision-makers, and the Prime Minister, who has been in constant contact with us," they continued. "We pray that our soldiers will be safe and bring home our boys unharmed, and we are grateful to all those involved in this tremendous effort."

''We feel a huge hug from the people of Israel, who accompanies us every hour - this strengthens us very much," they concluded. "Please keep praying and doing good deeds."

"To Naftali, Gilad, and Eyal: We love you and miss you. Be strong."