Israeli President Reuven Rivlin sent a letter of condolences to French President Francois Hollande Wednesday, after Islamists launched a shooting rampage at the Charlie Hebdo satirical magazine’s offices which left twelve people dead and at least ten injured. 

“I was shocked and saddened to learn of the brutal terrorist attack at the offices of the Charlie Hebdo magazine in Paris,” Rivlin said. “On behalf of the people of Israel I would like to offer our sincere condolences to the people of France and to its leaders.”

“We all, throughout the free world, face the threat of terrorism and must stand united in the fight against those who seek to stifle free thought and continue to destroy the lives of so many,” he continued. “Sadly, I am no stranger to the horror and grief that follows such murderous attacks.”

“We stand with France in its determination to safeguard freedom of speech and the freedom of the press, that are central pillars of any democracy,” he concluded. “Please convey my deepest sympathy to the bereaved families and our wishes for a speedy recovery to all the injured.”

Earlier Wednesday, two or three heavily armed gunmen stormed the offices of the Charlie Hebdo weekly, shouting Islamist slogans as they fired. The gunmen, who are still at large, were shouting Islamic phrases, including “Allahu Akhbar” (God is great – Arabic) throughout the attack, according to several eyewitnesses. 

Hollande has declared Thursday a day of mourning national national day of mourning in France after the attack.