Statement on Israel and Gaza

Statement

"I was deeply troubled to learn of the violence and loss of life when six ships delivering humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip were attacked last week. My heart goes out to the many innocent victims. The ongoing violence in the Middle East, and this incident in particular, is of great concern to me and many of my constituents who have called or written to express their anger and sorrow.

The "Freedom Flotilla' carrying activists and supplies was the largest outside attempt to bring aid to Gaza since the blockade imposed by Israel in 2007. The situation on the ground in Gaza is dire: the flow of humanitarian goods has been limited to food and medicine and Israel continues to block the importation of construction materials and fuel necessary for reconstruction. I have consistently voiced my strong opposition to the blockade and the restrictions on humanitarian aid reaching those who are suffering, and will continue to do so.

This event underscores the urgency of securing an enduring peace in the Middle East. United States leadership is essential in that process. As a strong supporter of both the Israeli and Palestinian peoples, I firmly believe it is imperative that the leaders of both Israel and Palestine work together toward a durable and sustainable cease-fire. I will never waiver from my belief that peace is possible no matter what the circumstances.

I remain in close contact with the Department of State and my colleagues in Congress as we press for a full and impartial investigation into the incident, immediate relief for the citizens of Gaza, and a resolution to the Israel-Palestinian conflict."

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