Senator Murray Statement on Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Deal

Washington, D.C. - Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), released the following statement on Israel and Hamas agreeing to the first phase of a ceasefire and hostage release deal:

"I am heartened by the news that Israel and Hamas have agreed to the first phase of a ceasefire deal, and am hopeful this will finally mean the end of this terrible war, which began with the deadliest terrorist attack in Israeli history. Over the past two years, tens of thousands of innocent people have been killed, entire communities have been destroyed, and there has been incalculable human suffering in Gaza-in no small part because Prime Minister Netanyahu chose to prolong this awful war to stay in power.

"I am hopeful that this agreement will finally mean a real and lasting end to the conflict, a surge of humanitarian aid into Gaza to feed starving families, and the safe return of all hostages, who have endured unimaginable suffering.

"The Trump administration must now do everything in its power to ensure both Israel and Hamas uphold the terms of this agreement during final negotiations and implementation. And to ensure sustainable peace, we cannot ignore what has been unfolding in the West Bank, where the Netanyahu government continues to take steps that undermine stability today and in the long term. We must continue to affirm America's commitment to a two-state solution where Israelis and Palestinians alike can live in peace, with dignity and security-I will always do everything I can to push to make that a reality."

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