The Long-Term Problems Between Israel and Palestine

Floor Speech

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Ms. SCHAKOWSKY. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding.

Mr. Speaker, I am horrified and saddened by the ongoing escalation of violence in Gaza and in Israel.

We have now seen over 1,800 rockets being fired indiscriminately at Israel's citizens, who are now fleeing for their lives. Yes, I believe that Israel does have a right to defend herself.

Now, 103 Palestinians and seven Israelis are dead, including children. It is so painful. The cycle of violence that we see over and over again. Yes, I believe Israel does have the right to defend herself. But in the end, there are no winners.

The United States can play a role. The Biden administration has dispatched the Deputy Assistant Secretary of State, his name is Hady Amr, to Israel, and his job is to deal with the situation in Israel and Palestine. I am hopeful that we will see a deescalation and a ceasefire. But a return to status quo is simply not enough.

Earlier this week, prior to the attacks, I was deeply disturbed by the intentional and the intended evacuation of Palestinian families, some of whom have been in their homes for decades. The Biden administration, through its National Security Advisor, Jake Sullivan, has also conveyed its consternation, its concern, about the evictions, and has called and has urged the administration to remain heavily involved, to address the root causes of this violence, including ongoing evictions, displacement, and occupation, as it works to secure a ceasefire.

The violence must end now, and we must work to enable dialogue that can lead to a just, safe, and secure future for both Israelis and Palestinians.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Source