President Barack Obama Offers Condolences After ''Horrific Shooting'' at Charlie Hebdo in Paris

Attack occurred this morning in the central part of the city

By Lily Harrison Jan 07, 2015 4:53 PMTags
President Barack ObamaChip Somodevilla/Getty Images

President Barack Obama released a statement early Wednesday morning offering his condolences after twelve people were killed at the Charlie Hebdo offices in Paris.

Obama called the shooting attack "horrific" and said that "the French people have stood up for the universal values that generations of our people have defended."

The statement continued, "Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of this terrorist attack and the people of France at this difficult time.

"France, and the great city of Paris where this outrageous attack took place, offer the world a timeless example that will endure well beyond the hateful vision of these killers. We are in touch with French officials and I have directed my Administration to provide any assistance needed to help bring these terrorists to justice."

He added that the United States and France will continue to stand together "in the fight against terrorists who threaten our shard security and the world."

French President François Hollande arrived at the scene in Paris' 11th arrondissement and confirmed that a massive manhunt for the gunmen was underway.

"We are at a very difficult moment. Several terrorist attacks have been impeded during the previous weeks. We are threatened because we are a country of freedom," he said.

"We fight threats and we will punish the attackers."

Hollande also told media, "I'm sure the whole House will want to join me in condemning the barbaric attack... While details are still unclear, I know that this House and this country stands united with the French people in opposition to all forms of terrorism, and we stand squarely for free speech and democracy. These people will never take us off those values."