Velázquez Statement on Second Anniversary of October 7th Attack

WASHINGTON- Congresswoman Nydia M. Velázquez released the following statement on the 2^nd anniversary of the October 7^th attacks:

"Hamas' brutal assault on October 7th, 2023, stole the lives of 1,200 innocent people, including 43 Americans. Hamas shattered countless families by kidnapping 250 people, dozens of whom remain in captivity today. It was the deadliest day for the Jewish people since the Holocaust and the shock and grief of that dark day remain in Israel, in Jewish communities in New York City, and around the world. Two years later, I mourn with the families of the victims and remain committed to bringing every hostage home.

"Since October 7th, the world has also witnessed a horrific Israeli military campaign that has killed more than 65,000 Palestinians, injured hundreds of thousands, and displaced the vast majority of the population. Gaza has been pushed to the edge of survival. Our nation must recognize this reality and take responsibility for our government's role in enabling this destruction.

"Israelis and Palestinians both deserve to live in safety, dignity, and hope. That requires an immediate and permanent ceasefire, the return of all hostages, accountability for violations of international law, and a flood of humanitarian aid into Gaza.

"To honor the innocent Israeli and Palestinian lives lost, we must pursue peace and a future where all peoples can live side by side in freedom and security."

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