Schakowsky Calls for An Extension of the Ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas War to Secure Release of All Hostages and Set the Stage for Lasting Peace

EVANSTON – Today, U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (IL-09) released the following statement calling for a ceasefire extension in the Israel-Hamas war. The goal of the extension would be to secure the release of all hostages, set the stage for a permanent ceasefire and for a negotiation to implement a two-state solution—that could provide freedom and self-determination for Palestinians and true security for Israel:

“Seven weeks after Hamas’ horrifying terrorist attack on Israel, I am relieved to see an agreement for the release of 50 hostages, a 4-day respite in fighting, and a larger transfer of humanitarian aid into Gaza. I hear daily from constituents mourning the over 1,400 victims of October 7 and from families of hostages who are still living a waking nightmare of fear, worry, and unknowing. I hear daily from constituents who are outraged by the killing of over 12,000 Palestinians -- including an estimated 5,000 children -- during Israel’s invasion and bombardment of Gaza. And I hear daily from constituents who simply want the fighting to stop. It is critical that we build upon this diplomatic breakthrough and end the terrorist violence and war that have left thousands dead and countless more suffering.

"This brief ceasefire must be extended to give the Biden Administration and our allies more time for diplomacy to secure the release of all remaining hostages, to broker a long-term and sustainable cessation of violence, and to build a pathway for the creation of a democratic and sovereign Palestinian state that provides freedom and prosperity for the Palestinian people and peace and security for the people of Israel. This moment must not be wasted – the U.S. and the international community must continue to work diligently to secure lasting peace in the region centered on justice for Israelis and Palestinians alike."

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