Kamlager-Dove Statement on Agreement to First Phase of Deal to End the War in Gaza

“I am deeply relieved that Israel and Hamas have agreed to the first phase of a peace plan that could pave the way to ending the devastating war in Gaza.

“After two years of brutal conflict, with a protracted hostage crisis harrowing the Israeli public and a humanitarian catastrophe—marked by famine, displacement, and the deaths of 67,000 Palestinians, most of them civilians—devastating Gaza, I am grateful that the immense suffering may finally be brought to an end and Hamas’ brutal reign will be over.

“In the coming hours, the hostages will start to return home and a ceasefire and Israeli withdrawal will begin in Gaza. It is now incumbent on the Administration to hold all parties accountable to this agreement and to follow through in laying the groundwork for a two-state solution that delivers real, lasting peace for Israelis and Palestinians.”

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