Presidency: US synagogue attack 'shows extreme levels of intolerance'
The Presidency has condemned the attack on a synagogue in the US city of Pittsburgh.
A heavily armed gunman opened fire during a baby-naming ceremony at the Tree Life of synagogue on Saturday, killing 11 people and injuring six in the deadliest anti-Semitic attack in recent American history.
The shooter -- identified as a 46-year-old local resident named Robert Bowers -- reportedly yelled "All Jews must die" as he burst into the Tree of Life synagogue, where dozens of congregants were gathered in the morning for Sabbath services.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Presidency says the attack shows extreme levels of intolerance.
"The South African government has noted the comments by President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence following the shooting, describing the incident as a horrific, anti-semitic attack.
"South Africa condemns in the strongest possible terms the violent attack targeted at the community," the Presidency says.
In an address to the Gardens synagogue in Cape Town last month, President Ramaphosa called on society to refrain from any manifestations of anti-semitism.
US President Donald Trump ordered that American flags be flown at half-staff following the shooting.
All flags at the White House, public grounds, military posts, naval stations and ships will be flown at half-staff through October 31 as a mark of "solemn respect" for the victims, Trump ordered.