Washington, DC – U.S. Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.) tonight released a statement following her votes on S.J.Res.34 and S.J.Res.41.
“Tonight, I voted for two resolutions to suspend further military aid and arms sales to Israel. The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza is unconscionable. The seemingly deliberate bombing of civilian infrastructure, the alleged killing of Gazan civilians seeking food aid, the man-made famine among the Palestinian people, the increased presence of illegal settlers and violence in the West Bank, the killing of an American citizen without an impartial investigation, and the continued refusal to responsibly work toward a two-state solution all underscore the unacceptable decisions being made by the Israeli government.
“I have long been a supporter of Israel’s right to exist and defend itself from terrorism. I have also repeatedly called for the release of hostages being held by Hamas. My votes tonight underscore the importance of finding peace in the region, and a lasting ceasefire in Gaza that puts an end to the civilian casualties is the best way to achieve that.
“Until Israel significantly shifts its military posture to end the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the West Bank, I cannot in good conscience support further military aid and arms sales to Israel. It is critical that the Israeli government resume the adequate flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza, stop the senseless bombing, and work with the United States and our international partners to secure a lasting ceasefire and end this war.”
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Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester represents Delaware in the United States Senate where she serves on the Committees on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs; Commerce, Science, and Transportation; Environment and Public Works; and Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.