DeLauro Calls for Humanitarian Pause and Hostage Releases in Israel-Hamas War

Today, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) called for a pause in the Israel-Hamas war to facilitate the disbursement of humanitarian aid to Gaza and the release of hostages:

“Twenty-three days ago, Israel faced the most devastating terrorist attack in its history. Over 1,400 Israelis were killed and over 5,000 were injured. Hamas’s surprise attack inflicted horrific violence on innocent civilians, forever separated families, and resulted in the capture of over 200 hostages – some of which are Americans. Hamas’s attack has created a humanitarian crisis for civilians living in Gaza. That is why I am calling for a humanitarian pause in the fighting to allow for the restoration of power and water in the region and the rapid, safe, and uninterrupted distribution of humanitarian aid, including food, water, medicine, and fuel, to innocent civilians. I am also urging the unconditional release of all remaining hostages.

“I strongly believe that we must end Hamas’s ongoing terror in the region to create a lasting peace. Everyone will be hurt if Hamas remains in control of Gaza. However, this war is against Hamas. The Palestinian people are not Hamas, and they sadly have lost communities, neighborhoods, and loved ones because of this conflict and Hamas’s atrocities. I strongly believe Israel has the right to defend itself and protect its citizens in accordance with international law.

“Additionally, we must quickly pass legislation that meets the needs outlined in President Biden’s security supplemental request to ensure Palestinian civilians receive the humanitarian assistance they need to survive as well as emergency assistance to Israel. We must quickly provide resources to lessen the impact of this war on civilians. Failure to do so would have devastating consequences.”