Lofgren Statement on the Ongoing Conflict in Gaza and Israel
WASHINGTON, DC – Exactly two months since the terrorist attack by Hamas in Israel, today, U.S. Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren (CA-18) released the following statement on the ongoing conflict in Gaza and Israel:
“Today marks two months since Hamas’ brutal terrorist attacks and it is with a very heavy heart that I have watched the spiraling violence unfold in both Israel and in Gaza in the weeks that have followed. Since then, I have expressed support for the victims of the attack and the right of Israel to exist and to defend itself against Hamas. I’ve called on President Biden to secure a pause in hostilities, urged additional humanitarian support for innocent civilians in Gaza, made additional pleas for a pause in fighting, and called on the Netanyahu government to recalibrate its war efforts to prevent civilian casualties in Gaza. During this time, I have also heard from many of my constituents with a wide range of opinions on this situation.
“Over the past two months, the rise of anti-Semitism is unacceptable and frightening. The rise of Islamophobia is as well. Violence based on either is an outrage and must be fought and condemned by all.
“While thoughtful people can reach different conclusions about the underlying issues of this conflict, everyone can agree that the killing of civilians must be avoided. It is becoming increasingly clear that the unfortunate resumption of hostilities will lead to a complete collapse of order in Gaza, without enough food, water, fuel, and shelter to sustain the civilian population at even the most minimal level. The wide destruction in Gaza has made it difficult, if not impossible, for innocent civilians to safely shelter from attack anywhere.
“Much like the United States, Israel is a democracy and must hold itself to the highest standard. To that end, I once again call on the Netanyahu government to do more to minimize civilian casualties. The current course of action cannot be condoned and cannot continue. That Hamas seems to purposely use civilians as human shields does not absolve Israel from its responsibility to protect the lives of those civilians.
“Additional information about the brutal and undeniable sexual violence against innocent women that was part of the October 7th attack and additional information about the scope of civilian loss in Gaza is horrifying and heartbreaking. The horror of the violence over the past two months and magnitude of casualties makes clear the urgent need for change. We need negotiations toward a long-term, two-state solution – previously undercut by the policies of the Netanyahu government – that provides both security and recognition between Israel and Palestine. We need a release of all hostages. We need an end to terrorism. We need the cessation of violence and suffering in Gaza and Israel. The current course in the region cannot continue. I urge the Biden Administration to use every tool at its disposal to secure a just and sustainable resolution to the conflict through diplomacy and negotiations.”
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