Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Anna G. Eshoo (CA-16), Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi (CA-11), and Representatives Jared Huffman (CA-2), Mike Thompson (CA-4), John Garamendi (CA-8), Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10), Eric Swalwell (CA-14), Kevin Mullin (CA-15), Ro Khanna (CA-17), Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), and Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) released the following statement on the Israel-Hamas War: 

“Following Hamas’ heinous attacks, Israel has the right to defend its citizens against terrorism and rescue the more than 230 hostages currently held in Gaza. As it pursues military action against Hamas, Israel must take all necessary precautions to minimize civilian harm in accordance with international law.” 

“We strongly support President Biden’s call for Israel to implement a temporary humanitarian pause in its ongoing military offensive in Gaza. Such a cessation of hostilities would enable humanitarian aid to reach vulnerable civilians, allow civilians to evacuate to safety, and provide valuable time to negotiate for the release of hostages. We share Secretary Blinken’s view that a humanitarian pause is a ‘critical mechanism for protecting civilians while enabling Israel to achieve its objective of defeating Hamas.’”