SCHNEIDER STATEMENT ON RENEWED FIGHTING IN GAZA
LINCOLNSHIRE, IL – Rep. Brad Schneider (IL-10), a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and co-chair and co-founder of the bipartisan, bicameral Abraham Accords Caucus, released the following statement in response to renewed fighting in Gaza.
“It’s been 530 days since thousands of Hamas-led terrorists invaded Israel, murdered more than 1,200 and took 250 hostages back to Gaza. The war Hamas started has been devastating, especially for Palestinians, and we all want it to come to an end with the release of all remaining 59 hostages and removal of Hamas from reigning over Gaza. Only then can recovery and renewal begin in Gaza, and only then can there be any hope for real and lasting peace for all the people in the region.
“The breakdown of the ceasefire and resumption of deadly violence in Gaza is deeply concerning. The renewed fighting underscores once again the devastating cost of Hamas’s intransigence and its disregard for both Palestinian and Israeli lives.
“Hamas’s insistence on holding hostages as leverage is reprehensible. Their refusal to engage seriously in efforts toward a lasting ceasefire, despite sustained diplomatic conversations, has precipitated the tragic events unfolding now. The humanitarian toll of these renewed hostilities is heartbreaking and unacceptable.
“Israel has the right to defend itself and to act decisively to secure the release of hostages and to ensure the safety of its citizens. However, continued violence and instability cannot be the solution. It is imperative that diplomatic channels remain open and active.
“I strongly encourage all involved parties, with support from the United States and regional mediators, to urgently resume negotiations aimed at swiftly restoring a durable ceasefire so that the next phase of hostage releases can take place. It is critical to prioritize humanitarian considerations and the release of hostages as core components of any renewed dialogue.
“The international community, including the United States, must remain engaged and active in supporting efforts that can lead to a sustainable and peaceful outcome for Israelis and Palestinians alike.”
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