Senator Murray Statement on Senate Passage of Resolution Standing with Israel Against Terrorism

Press Release

"October 7th was one of the darkest days in modern history for the Jewish people--not only for Jews living in Israel, but also those halfway across the world in Washington state. I remain in close contact with Jewish leaders and community members in our state and my heart is with everyone who is mourning the innocent lives lost and waiting with dread to hear the fate of those who are still missing.

Hamas is an antisemitic and genocidal terrorist group that does not in any way represent the very real and important aspirations of the Palestinian people. The grotesque acts of torture, murder, and terror that Hamas carried out against innocent Israeli civilians should be universally condemned. Like any nation, Israel has the right to defend itself and its people, and I am working with my colleagues in Congress to make sure Israel has what it needs to fight back against terrorism and protect its civilians.

I remain deeply concerned for the safety of innocent civilians, including the nearly two million Palestinians who are caught in the bombardment of the Gaza strip. The Israeli government must do everything in its power to protect innocent civilians in Gaza--that has to be a top priority. I know the Biden administration continues to raise urgent humanitarian concerns--I will continue pressing to ensure this remains at the forefront of every conversation with Israeli leaders."

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