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WASHINGTON, DC—Congressman Paul D. Tonko (D-NY) released a statement following the announcement of a ceasefire agreement:

“I am heartened by this long-awaited announcement of a negotiated ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. This agreement will put an immediate end to the violence in Gaza and at last bring Israeli hostages home to their families after 15 agonizing months. My thanks to President Biden and the U.S. diplomatic efforts that helped to secure this deal.

“It is my hope that this agreement leads to a permanent de-escalation in this conflict, allows needed humanitarian relief into Gaza, and finally brings lasting peace and stability to the region. Moving forward, the United States must do everything in its power to support a durable solution that guarantees peace and security for both the Israeli and Palestinian people.”