Sarbanes Statement on Gaza Conflict

Sarbanes Statement on Gaza Conflict

The right of self-defense of any nation or people cannot be challenged. Israel has exercised that right in the face of an ongoing barrage of rocket attacks by Hamas. Any conflict that is waged in a densely populated urban setting will inevitably produce civilian casualties and the tragic loss of innocent life. Beyond this, there is a humanitarian crisis on the ground in Gaza that has been aggravated by the intense fighting of the past days.

I do not believe that it is the policy of the Israeli Government or the desire of the Israeli people to inflict suffering on innocent Palestinian civilians. I believe Israel seeks only to eliminate the terrorist attacks upon its soil that have inflicted fear and casualties. The parties must strive for a meaningful ceasefire, one that permits the flow of economic and humanitarian aid to the residents of Gaza, but also will ensure that Hamas is unable to smuggle weaponry across the border with Gaza.

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