Reps. Sara Jacobs, Jamie Raskin, Susan Wild Call For Temporary Cessation of Hostilities in Gaza to Establish Humanitarian Access
Reps. Sara Jacobs (CA-51), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), and Susan Wild (PA-07) called for a temporary cessation of hostilities to establish access for humanitarian aid to reach those in need in Gaza.
The lawmakers said:
“As Jewish Members of Congress who have family and loved ones in Israel, we are sickened by Hamas’ brutal and inexcusable attack on innocent Israeli civilians on October 7th. Our hearts remain with those killed, injured, and taken hostage – and with all their loved ones – and we urge Hamas to release all the hostages immediately so they can return safely and securely to their homes. Israel has the undeniable right under international law to defend itself, and we will continue to work toward our shared goal of long-term safety and security of the Israeli and Palestinian people.
“We are also deeply concerned for Palestinian civilians caught in the middle of this conflict, and heartbroken over the growing and deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza. While we are grateful for the Biden Administration’s successful efforts to deliver humanitarian aid through the Rafah crossing over the weekend, it is clear this aid alone is insufficient. The two million civilians in Gaza cannot survive without access to water, food, medicine, and fuel – and resources cannot get to those who need it without a temporary cessation of hostilities for humanitarian workers to do their jobs safely. That’s why we echo Secretary Blinken’s call for a temporary cessation of hostilities to establish safe passage for civilians and allow humanitarian aid to resume. We are committed to doing everything we can to support the Biden Administration in its efforts to protect civilian life, end Hamas terror, and bring about not only an appropriate and rapid end to hostilities but enduring peace and security to both Israelis and Palestinians.”
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