Skip to main content

Rep. Neguse Issues Statement on Israel-Hamas War

October 20, 2023

Lafayette, CO — Congressman Joe Neguse joined a letter, led by House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerry Nadler, to President Biden regarding actions taken by his administration following the horrific attack by Hamas in Israel on October 7th. 

In the letter, the lawmakers noted the administration’s “clear statements regarding the fundamental importance of ensuring that the humanitarian needs of the civilian population of Gaza are met, and that all possible steps are being taken to ensure the safety of civilians and noncombatants in the Strip. Reportedly, more than 3,000 people have been killed and more than 9,700 wounded in Gaza, making it imperative that we act to prevent further loss of innocent lives. We agree with you that Israel’s response must be in accordance with international law and our shared democratic values.” 

“We support the efforts that Secretary Blinken and your entire administration are making to ensure that the basic necessities of life for Gaza’s civilians are available, such as food, water, and medicine. In addition, we must enable those civilians and noncombatants who want to seek refuge temporarily in safe zones in southern Gaza to be given safe passage, and to ensure that they have the ability to return to their communities in Gaza when the war is over,” the letter continued. 

The lawmakers added: “A commitment to Israel’s security and right to respond to terror is not incompatible with a commitment to the humanitarian needs of the innocent people of Gaza . . . We further support the efforts that your administration is undertaking to prevent the conflict from escalating to other fronts in this war, including to Israel’s north, as evidenced by the decision to deploy carrier strike groups to the Eastern Mediterranean. In particular, we urge your administration to work closely with Israel and regional partners to ensure stability on the West Bank and to prevent any escalation of violence in that region.” 

The full text of the letter is available HERE(link is external)

The Office of Congressman Joe Neguse is continuing to work to assist constituents currently in Israel. Staff encourages individuals to continue to reach out if they are in need of assistance. U.S. citizens seeking to be in touch with the U.S. Embassy in Israel, or looking for assistance, should also complete the Department of State’s Crisis Intake Form, here(link is external).

 

###