Kaine Statement on Ceasefire Between Israel and Hamas

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Armed Services and Foreign Relations Committees, released the following statement after a hostage return and ceasefire deal was reached to end the war between Israel and Hamas, pausing the conflict which started after Hamas’ horrific terrorist attack in Israel on October 7, 2023:

“I’m grateful for the Biden Administration’s tireless efforts to negotiate a deal—which I have long called for—to reunite hostage families and flood Gaza with desperately-needed humanitarian assistance. This agreement marks an important step toward a lasting peace. It is in the best interest of hostage families, the Israeli and Palestinian people, and U.S. civilians and military personnel throughout the region that we continue to build on this progress. That will mean additional steps to prevent further regional escalation by Houthis, Hezbollah, and other proxy actors, provide all Palestinians with the opportunity to go back home in Gaza and the West Bank, and chart a path that leads to what was promised to Israelis and Palestinians more than 75 years ago: two states living peacefully as neighbors.”

Kaine has repeatedly called for a ceasefire and hostage release deal. He strongly supports Israel’s right to defend itself and condemned Hamas’ October 7 terrorist attack. He has also pushed for more humanitarian aid in Gaza, called for an end to violence against innocent civilians, and has been a leading voice in Congress in urging that U.S. weapons transfers to Israel be comprised primarily of defensive weapons.

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