Indian American lawmakers welcome Gaza ceasefire, stress continued efforts for peace

Representative Pramila Jayapal welcomed the ceasefire as "a monumental step toward saving lives and ending over a year of deep pain and suffering."

Indian American lawmakers / Image- File Photo

Indian American lawmakers have expressed cautious optimism following the announcement of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, following over 15 months of conflict, marked by significant casualties and a dire humanitarian situation in Gaza.

The deal, brokered through intensive negotiations involving Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, includes a phased approach beginning with a 42-day ceasefire set to commence on Jan.19. Key components of the agreement involve the release of 33 Israeli hostages in exchange for 1,000 Palestinian prisoners and the facilitation of increased humanitarian aid to Gaza.

Representative Pramila Jayapal welcomed the ceasefire as "a monumental step toward saving lives and ending over a year of deep pain and suffering." In her statement, she highlighted the toll of the conflict, citing the loss of thousands of Palestinian lives and the urgent need for humanitarian aid in Gaza.

She praised negotiators from the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar for their efforts and underscored the importance of holding those responsible for war crimes accountable.

Today’s ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas is a monumental step toward saving lives and ending over a year of pain and suffering for both the Israeli and Palestinian people.

My full statement: pic.twitter.com/mWMJ134lXW
— Rep. Pramila Jayapal (@RepJayapal) January 15, 2025

Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi emphasized the potential of the ceasefire to pave the way for a lasting peace. "We must build upon this progress to ensure the return of all hostages and the provision of humanitarian relief to Gaza," he stated, advocating for a two-state solution that ensures security and prosperity for both Israelis and Palestinians.

My statement on the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas: pic.twitter.com/12lmICJDaV
— Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (@CongressmanRaja) January 15, 2025

Representative Shri Thanedar expressed gratitude for the ceasefire, describing it as a crucial step toward peace. He commended President Biden and Secretary Blinken for their roles in brokering the agreement and voiced hope for a long-term peace agreement that could result in a two-state solution.

My statement on the pending ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas. pic.twitter.com/FHmP00VeKC
— Congressman Shri Thanedar (@RepShriThanedar) January 15, 2025

Congressman Ami Bera echoed these sentiments, calling the ceasefire a significant development that would reunite hostages with their families and deliver much-needed aid to Palestinian civilians. Bera urged continued efforts to disarm Hamas and pursue lasting peace in the region.

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