Mario Diaz-Balart

10/07/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/07/2025 08:44

Díaz-Balart Demands Release of all Remaining Hostages

WASHINGTON, D.C.- Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-26), Chairman of the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Subcommittee of the House Committee on Appropriations and Co-Chair of the Congressional Latino-Jewish Caucus, issued the following statement marking the second anniversary of the brutal, terrorist attack on Israel by Hamas on October 7, 2023.

"It is outrageous that, two years after Hamas' horrific, unprovoked terrorist attack on Israel, 48 hostages remain in captivity. I commend President Trump for working tirelessly so that those hostages - whether dead or alive - are returned to their families.

I am disturbed by the growing fecklessness of leaders around the world who accept Hamas propaganda and grant concessions in response to the violence and evil of Hamas. Even more concerning is the alarming rise of antisemitism both at home and abroad in the wake of the heinous October 7 attack, and the weak condemnations that follow. I resoundingly reject rewarding Hamas for its acts of terrorism, and stand in solidarity with Israel in its mission to eliminate terrorism.

We cannot forget that Hamas murdered, raped, and maimed thousands of Israelis, including babies, toddlers, and the elderly. Hundreds of hostages, including Americans, were taken into Gaza. There can be no justification for those atrocities perpetrated against innocent civilians. That day has wreaked indelible trauma on Israelis and Jewish communities around the world. Survivors of captivity have described brutal conditions, including physical abuse, starvation, and psychological torment.

There is no confusion over the true nature of Hamas: Hamas is a barbaric terrorist organization that thrives on cruelty, fear, and chaos against Israelis and Palestinians alike. Its deliberate use of human shields, targeted attacks on women and children, and frequent rejection of ceasefire agreements reveal its utter contempt for peace and humanity. I commend President Trump's bold leadership and vision for peace in the Middle East, and his determination to protect human life and secure the release of hostages. The United States stands unwaveringly with Israel in its mission to eradicate the scourge of Hamas, and will not cease until the release of every single hostage, whether living or deceased."

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