Washington, DC - Secretary of State John Kerry: "The United States condemns ISIL’s vicious murder of Japanese journalist Kenji Goto. We extend our sincere and heartfelt condolences to his wife, his family, and his loved ones, as well as to the people of Japan.

"The barbaric killing of Kenji Goto, and of Haruna Yukawa before him, shows again ISIL’s brutality and extremist agenda.

"The United States knows this pain on a personal level born of our own experience.

"We share the sorrow and continue to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our ally Japan in confronting terrorism. We commend Japan’s support for those in the region who have been displaced by ISIL, the Syrian regime, and other militant groups.

"Japan’s generous assistance to vulnerable communities fully reflects its commitment to international peace and development." ~ John Kerry