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Tonko Statement on Negotiated Ceasefire Between Israel and Hamas

Congressman hopes deal will create space needed to work toward sustainable, long-term political solution

  • rep. tonko press 2

ALBANY, NY — Congressman Paul D. Tonko today released the following statement on the negotiated ceasefire announced between Israel and Hamas:

“I welcome last night’s announcement of a negotiated ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, and I am grateful for the U.S. diplomatic efforts that secured this deal. This agreement will put an immediate stop to the violence in exchange for the release of at least 50 hostages, including American citizens, and the delivery of aid into Gaza. Importantly, the ceasefire also provides a framework for this temporary peace to be extended through the release of additional hostages.

“It is my hope that this agreement creates the desperately needed space to de-escalate this conflict and allow for an eventual long-term ceasefire agreement which secures the release of all hostages and removes Hamas from power. Ultimately, the United States must do everything in its power to support a durable political solution that guarantees peace and security for both the Israeli and Palestinian people.”

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