Foster Statement on Israeli Military Strategy in Gaza

Washington, DC — Today, Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL) released the following statement: 

"I join my colleagues in expressing concern over Prime Minister Netanyahu's current military strategy in Gaza, and in their urging President Biden to use all available leverage to effect a change in that strategy. 

"The mounting and unnecessary civilian death toll and worsening humanitarian crisis are unacceptable.  They are not in accord with American principles or interests; nor do they make Israel safer. Maintaining the current strategy also jeopardizes efforts to permanently dismantle Hamas and secure the release of all hostages.

“In addition, I support efforts in the Senate to require weapons received by any country under the proposed national security supplemental to be used in accordance with U.S. law and international humanitarian law, and support congressional oversight to ensure those conditions are respected.

"Finally, I urge President Biden to continue using America's leverage to urge the Israeli government to pursue a long-term peace founded upon a sustainable two-state solution that respects international law and the interests of both the Israeli and Palestinian people.” 

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