DeLauro Statement on Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza

Congresswoman DeLauro (CT-03) released the following statement on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza:

“Israel has our unequivocal support as they seek to defeat Hamas. While they engage in that effort, they should take every precaution to protect innocent lives. As we work to ensure Israel receives the resources it needs to defend itself, I will work to ensure the Palestinian people quickly receive the humanitarian aid they need to survive.

“I am glad the Biden administration has announced that it will immediately provide $100 million in humanitarian assistance for the Palestinian people in Gaza and the West Bank. As the Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee, I have also given strong support to the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), the primary agency responsible for Palestinian refugees across the region. In last year’s budget, we were able to secure an additional $75 million to address extraordinary food needs in Gaza. This will help get needed support directly to the innocent and displaced civilians caught in the middle of this conflict, particularly those in southern Gaza, and will ensure they have access to clean water, food, medical care, and other essential needs.

“The Palestinian people are not Hamas. This war is against Hamas, not the Palestinian people. Palestinians have also lost communities and even loved ones because of Hamas’s atrocities. Hamas militias were firing rockets right by a hospital, which confirms that the status quo is not tenable. Everyone will be hurt if Hamas remains in control of Gaza. 

“I believe the people of Gaza deserve a better future. Peace must be our ultimate goal and a two-state solution. That means a big change in policy. I have urged an end to aggressive settlement expansion that is undermining the Palestinian Authority.  

“I believe Israel has to end Hamas’s role in Gaza, while we work together to minimize harm to civilian populations. But Hamas's presence is an assault on humanity, and I want to work with a unity government in Israel to create the conditions for peace again.”