Kaptur Statement on Agreement Between Israel and Hamas for Ceasefire and Release of HostagesPress Release

Toledo, OH - Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) released the following statement on the agreement that has been reached between Israel and Hamas for a ceasefire, and release of hostages, some of whom have already returned home.

"Today, we are grateful for a ceasefire and pause in fighting in Gaza after more than two years of bloodshed. With an apparent agreement reached we also are very grateful for the release of all living hostages of the October 7 attack against Israel, as well as those in Israeli captivity who will return home to Gaza or the West Bank.

"We still do not know all the details of how this agreement will be implemented and what it will take to hold. However, these first steps are encouraging and allow people who have lived in fear, while caught in this prolonged war, a respite from bombing and horror. We share our thanks with all leaders and states both at home and abroad who played a role in getting us to this point today.

"We have finally reached a ceasefire that the public has been pleading for. While we cannot undo what has been done, and the tens of thousands of Palestinian lives lost, nor the horrors of the brutal October 7 attack by Hamas, we see a new path forward.

"I hope that this new path lights the way toward a two-state solution for all who inhabit this war torn region. It is my hope that these first steps towards a lasting peace, will be built upon and turned into a permanent negotiated truce.

"Today we celebrate the return of the hostages and an end in hostilities-tomorrow we turn to the hard work of rebuilding Gaza, and moving this region forward for both the Palestinian and Israeli people. Onward!"

# # #