Kamlager-Dove Celebrates Hostage Release and Israel-Gaza Ceasefire

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) released the following statement following the announcement of a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, brokered by President Biden:

“For over a year, our community has been upended by the conflict in Israel and Gaza. Following Hamas’ brutal terrorist attack, my Jewish and Israeli constituents have feared for the safety of their loved ones in Israel, experienced existential dread concerning the hostages, and faced a disturbing surge in antisemitism worldwide. These feelings of profound pain, sorrow, and anguish are shared by my Palestinian, Arab, and Muslim constituents, who have been distressed over the well-being of their loved ones, devastated by the harrowing scenes in Gaza, and confronted with increased racism and Islamophobia. 

“I have been heartbroken by the toll this conflict has taken on my constituents and innocent civilians in the region. That is why I have long advocated for a bilateral ceasefire to bring home the hostages, protect Palestinian civilians in Gaza, and lay the groundwork for sustainable peace in the Middle East. I am relieved that today, Israel and Hamas have at last agreed to a ceasefire deal thanks to the relentless diplomatic efforts of the Biden Administration. This deal lays out a path that, if fully implemented, will bring all the hostages home, end the war, and provide for the reconstruction of Gaza and a new future for Palestinians free from Hamas’ rule. I urge the next Administration to work closely with our partners to ensure each phase of the deal is fully implemented. The road ahead is long, but finally, all those impacted by this conflict have a chance to begin the healing process. Now is when the real work begins.”

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