STATEN ISLANDERS CALL FOR A CEASEFIRE IN GAZA

We, the undersigned, express our urgent concern regarding dire and escalating violence in Israel and Occupied Palestinian Territory, which continues to result in significant human suffering and loss of civilian life. 

We condemn all violence against civilians by Hamas and the Israeli military. In this critical moment, we believe it is imperative that U.S. policymakers take measures to immediately de-escalate the violence to prevent the further loss of civilian life. We urge Congress and the Administration to:

1) Publicly call for a permanent ceasefire to prevent the further loss of life;

2) Prioritize the protection of all civilians, including by urgently securing the entrance of humanitarian aid into Gaza and working to secure the release of hostages; and

3) Urge all parties to fully respect international humanitarian law.

We implore Congress and the Administration to abstain from rhetoric that exacerbates violence and to unequivocally condemn all violations of international law. Over the last several days, the Israeli government has cut food, fuel, and humanitarian assistance to the Gaza Strip, only allowing in a trickle of aid. On October 12, the Israel government issued an evacuation order for the entire northern Gaza Strip, telling residents to evacuate to the southern part of Gaza. This order affects approximately 1.1 million people. As of December 27, 2023,  deaths in Gaza were over 21,000, including the deaths of at least 8,000 children. Hospitals cannot opperate in the Gaza Strip. UN agencies say that “Decisive international action is needed now to secure an immediate humanitarian ceasefire and prevent further loss of life, and preserve what’s left of the health care system in Gaza.”

We again urge Congress and the Administration to publicly call for, and help to facilitate, a permanent ceasefire to prevent the tragic loss of more innocent Palestinian and Israeli lives. Thank you for your urgent consideration.