Rep. Smith Statement on Israel and Gaza

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representative Adam Smith (D-Wash.) released the following statement on Israel and Gaza.
 
“It has been over 100 days since Hamas launched its horrific terrorist attacks against Israel. As I have said before, Israel has a right and a duty to ensure that Hamas is never able to commit such atrocities again. As Israel makes progress towards this goal it is crucial that they do everything they can to continue to reduce civilian casualties. Further, they must not lose sight of the ultimate goal of creating a path to peace for the region that offers long-term security for Israel and a future for the Palestinian people.
 
“Gaza and the West Bank must be rebuilt, and we must continue working towards Palestinian statehood. The U.S. and its allies and partners must continue to send aid to the Palestinians in Gaza and ensure that more aid gets to the people there so they can begin to recover from the conflict and humanitarian crisis and build a state that allows for the peace and prosperity of its citizens. Crucially important to that goal is establishing a legitimate version of the Palestinian Authority that can provide for the people.
 
“I disagree with Prime Minister Netanyahu and his government, who have rejected the idea of a Palestinian state and have taken an approach over the past several years that has moved the region away from this possibility. A two-state solution is in the best interest of Israel, the Palestinian people, and provides stability in the Middle East. It is the only path that offers long term security for Israel and peace, prosperity, and dignity for the Palestinian people. Israel, the United States, and allies and partners in the region need to work towards that end.”
 

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