Kamlager-Dove Statement Calling for a Humanitarian Pause in Israel and Gaza
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - November 3, 2023
Media Contact: Maya Valentine | maya.valentine@mail.house.gov
WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) issued the following statement in full support of a temporary cessation of hostilities in Israel and Gaza to ensure lifesaving humanitarian assistance can reach civilians:
"I'm shocked and saddened by the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. It is untenable, growing by the minute, and the catastrophic loss of innocent Palestinian life is unacceptable. It is time for a humanitarian pause in order to recover the remaining hostages held by Hamas, some of whom are American, and allow desperately needed assistance, including food, water, and medicine, to reach civilians in Gaza.
"The terrorist attack on October 7th was horrific, and Hamas continues to pose a security threat. We should not forget the innocent Israeli lives that were lost or the hostages that were taken. Israel has a right to defend itself, and its military strategy must abide by international law, must be operationally incisive, and work to protect civilian life. This framework can ensure a path forward that doesn't jeopardize an already fragile region and is why a temporary cessation of hostilities is so vital.
"I represent a large and diverse Jewish community in Los Angeles that has been grappling with the effects of this terrorist attack, including an alarming uptick in antisemitism. Many are also connecting with their Muslim and Palestinian brothers and sisters to rebuild a fractured community and continue the work of peace. The impact of this crisis has been a catalyst of hate crimes against American Muslims and American Jews. There is pain across my district as we reflect on what it means to live with dignity, self-determination, and peace without fear of extinction. At this inflection point, we must put serious weight behind charting the kind of future that Israelis and Palestinians deserve and considering how the broader international community helps support this effort.”
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