(JTA) — The United States government “strongly” condemned the bombing of a bus near Tel Aviv.

“Violent acts targeting civilians are deplorable,” read the State Department statement late Sunday night, hours after the public bus exploded in the coastal city of Bat Yam. The bus had originated in Bnei Brak.

All passengers had been removed from the bus after a fellow passenger noticed the suspicious package that contained the bomb.

“We reaffirm our unshakable bond with Israel and our solidarity with the Israeli people,” the statement concluded.

Israeli security forces worked through the night to apprehend the bomber and accomplices, including checking cars entering the West Bank.

It is the first bus bombing attack in Israel in slightly over a year.

Palestinian terror groups welcomed the attack, but none claimed responsibility. Police are considering the bombing a terrorist attack, according to reports.