Rep. Scholten Statement on Urgent Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (MI03) released the following statement on the urgent humanitarian crisis in Gaza: 

“The humanitarian situation in Gaza is a full-blown crisis, with innocent women and children who are starving. They deserve regular access to food and water. It’s a basic human right. The United States, Israel, regional partners, and international humanitarian organizations must work together to address the crisis immediately.

Since the beginning of this war, I have prayed–and worked–for a ceasefire that secures the release of hostages and allows for the sustained delivery of humanitarian aid into Gaza. And as it wages on, we must remain clear-eyed about one thing: Hamas started this war and can end it today. But they choose not to. They are not negotiating in good faith, and every life lost is on their hands. Palestinians in Gaza deserve better. Both Israelis and Palestinians deserve to live in peace and security in their ancestral homeland. 

Yet even as Hamas terrorizes the region, we cannot stand by and do nothing while mothers struggle to feed their children. The U.S. remains committed to Israel’s security and to a future where Palestinians realize their legitimate aspiration to form a country of their own. This must happen through negotiation, not violence. Lasting peace will come through international partnership and a shared commitment to human life.”